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Almost two years since his “huge, huge mistake,” Meyers Leonard has (sort of) made it back to the NBA. The Milwaukee Bucks have signed him to a 10-day contract, which certainly makes him one of the most interesting mid season pickups in a few years.
When Leonard used anti-Semitic language while streaming a video game, he was formally punished by the NBA via a $50,000 fine, a one-week suspension, and being required to attend a cultural diversity program. But on top of that, the Miami Heat traded him to the Oklahoma City Thunder, who released him, and he has been out of the league since. His ankle was injured at the time (and further aggravated by surgery, which caused nerve damage), but having spent so much time away, it appears he is fully rehabbed and ready to return to the hardwood.
Sources say the Bucks have been following Leonard’s progress on his ankle for over a year and had him work out for them last month. They wanted a big who could shoot (Leonard has a career 39% clip from three) and who had playoff experience (Leonard has appeared in over 28 postseason contests in his career).
Now 30 and set to turn 31 soon, the opportunity could be a blessing if he earns a full deal, since the Bucks are contenders and his role in the frontcourt would be vital. It has been a long journey back for Leonard, who has been outspoken and apologetic about his language.
“There are absolutely no excuses for what happened that day,” Leonard said in an interview last month. “And ignorance, sadly, is a very real thing. I am not running from this, but I did not know that it happened.”
NBA spokesman Mike Bass has spoken favorably of Leonard’s actions following the incident. “Since his use of a derogatory and unacceptable term in 2021, Meyers Leonard has been held accountable and has dedicated considerable time and effort to understand the impact of his comment. He has met with numerous leaders in the Jewish community and participated in community programs to educate himself and use his platform to share his learnings with others.”
Fully healed and ready to play in the NBA again, Leonard has a chance to fully move forward from the event that “destroyed his life.” He has ten days.
