Nets' Cam Thomas fined for 'derogatory and disparaging language'

Brooklyn Nets guard Cam Thomas Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Nets' Cam Thomas latest NBA player to be fined for 'derogatory and disparaging language'

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 2/10/23

Cam Thomas was having a great week up until Friday.

The Brooklyn Nets shooting guard became the youngest player in NBA history to score at least 40 points in three straight games and was making fans forget about the departed Kyrie Irving (and now Kevin Durant).

Thomas scored 20 points in a win over the Chicago Bulls on Thursday, but in a postgame interview, he uttered some inappropriate anti-LGBTQ+ language that has cost him a bit of money.

The following was released by the NBA. pic.twitter.com/DBtgkZ0ZoM
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) February 10, 2023

Thomas' words came after the reporter asked him about new teammate Spencer Dinwiddie's recent comments ahead of the trade deadline that the Nets needed some help in the looks "department." Dinwiddie (who previously played for Brooklyn) was acquired by the Nets earlier this week.

Following the controversial words, the 2021 first-round pick took to Twitter to apologize.

I want to apologize for the insensitive word I used in the post-game interview. I was excited about the win and was being playful. I definitely didn't intend to offend anyone, but realize that I probably did. My apologies again. Much love ❤️
— Cam Thomas (@24_camthomas) February 10, 2023

Thomas is the second rising youngster to be fined by the league in recent months after Minnesota Timberwolves former No. 1 overall pick Anthony Edwards was also docked $40,000 in September. "Ant" was given the punishment after making anti-gay comments in an Instagram story.

Both Edwards and Thomas are talented players and have very bright futures in the NBA. Both of them are 21 years old, and hopefully their slip-ups will be a valuable learning lesson to help mature as their careers continue.

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