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George Karl Defends Controversial 'N—gger' Book in His Office
Former Denver Nuggets head coach George Karl confirmed that he keeps a copy of the 2002 book *N—gger* by Harvard Law professor Randall Kennedy in his office. The book examines the origins and usage of the racial slur.
NBA veterans J.R. Smith and Carmelo Anthony publicly criticized Karl for displaying the volume, noting that a white coach’s office was an inappropriate setting for it. Karl responded on social media, stating the book is “good and important” and that everyone, including Smith, should read it. The exchange resurfaced after a clip of the players’ remarks was reposted online, prompting renewed debate.
Karl’s memoir *Furious George* (2017) also featured sharp critiques of Smith and other teammates, providing further context for the lingering tension between the former coach and players.
Entities
Carmelo Anthony · George Karl · J.R. Smith · N—gger (book) · Randall Kennedy
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] *N—gger* is a book written by Harvard Law professor Randall Kennedy that explains the origins of the word. hot1009.com · 92q.com · zhiphopcleveland.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] George Karl kept a copy of the 2002 book *N—gger* by Randall Kennedy in his office. hot1009.com · 92q.com · zhiphopcleveland.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Karl said the book is “good and important” and that everyone should read it, including J.R. Smith. hot1009.com · 92q.com · zhiphopcleveland.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] J.R. Smith and Carmelo Anthony criticized Karl for having the *N—gger* book in his office. hot1009.com · 92q.com · zhiphopcleveland.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] A clip of Smith and Anthony’s criticism resurfaced on social media, prompting renewed attention to the issue. hot1009.com · 92q.com · zhiphopcleveland.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] In his 2017 memoir *Furious George*, Karl criticized J.R. Smith and his teammates, calling them “AAU babies.” hot1009.com · 92q.com · zhiphopcleveland.com