Kevin Love apologizes for on-court tantrum during inbounds play: 'I f***ed up'
Cleveland Cavaliers big man Kevin Love let his emotions get the best of him during Monday's game. Love publicly apologized to both his teammates and fans Wednesday, admitting he "f***ed up" after angrily batting at the ball during an inbounds play.
That play cost the Cavaliers three points, and has resulted in Love performing damage control over the past couple days. Love continued that trend Wednesday, admitting he was frustrated by a number of things during the game.
Kevin Love started media this morning w/ this: “This will be a therapy session for me right now. First things first...I f’d up. I love this team & I know that I’m a part of something bigger than myself. It wasn’t my intention to disrespect the game or my teammates.” #Cavs
— Angel Gray (@Angel_Gray1) April 28, 2021
“In that moment I was frustrated about a lot of things: Me not being myself, letting the fans down, dealing with injuries, officials, players out....it was frustrating and that’s how it came out in the moment. #Cavs
— Angel Gray (@Angel_Gray1) April 28, 2021
Love ended his statement by saying he needs to be better for the team's young players. He added that he loves Cleveland and will rock with the team "until the day I die."
He wrapped up with: “ I have to be better for these young guys. I love my role in helping the young core. This had nothing to do with the coaches or players....I love those guys and I love Cleveland. I’ll rock w/ CLE until the day I die. I’m sorry.” #Cavs
— Angel Gray (@Angel_Gray1) April 28, 2021
Kevin Love gives up easy three after batting away ball
Love is under fire after angrily batting away a ball during an inbounds play. The incident occurred at the end of the third quarter in Monday's 112-96 loss to the Toronto Raptors.
With the Cavaliers down by just 6 points, Love was set to inbound the ball to one of his teammates. He walked out of bounds to receive the ball, but when the ref threw it, Love slapped it inbounds and walked away from the play. The Raptors grabbed Love's pass and nailed a three to extend their lead.
What is Kevin Love doing ?? pic.twitter.com/WpZP4UZJHL
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 27, 2021
Love apologized to his teammates following the contest, saying he was upset with the officials and not with the team's performance. Love did not play during the fourth quarter of the contest, and did not speak with the media following the game.
The Cavaliers have lost eight of their last 10 games, which may have added to Love's frustration Monday.
More from Yahoo Sports: