Updated throughout the day with quick takes from staff.
Via Deadspin, we learn from the LA Times that Clippers broadcasters Ralph Lawler and Mike Smith have reportedly been suspended following remarks they made during Friday night's broadcast: In part:
Lawler: “Hamed Haddadi. Where’s he from?”
Smith: “He’s the first Iranian to play in the NBA.” (Smith pronounced Iranian as “Eye-ranian,” a pronunciation that offended the viewer who complained.)
[...] Lawler: “Wow. Haddadi – that’s H-A-D-D-A-D-I.”
Smith: “You’re sure it’s not Borat’s older brother?”
I'd guess that Lawler and Smith had no idea they were being offensive, but I figured we as a culture had moved past the "people from other countries have funny names!!!" trope. Oh well. While Lawler and Smith are suspended, they can at least rely on their other gig.
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