Corey Webster of the Canterbury Rams during the 2023 National Basketball League. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Former Tall Black Corey Webster missed last night's Australian NBL preseason basketball game after being stood down by his club following his social media comment about the rainbow pride flag.
An X post on Sunday posed the question: "What's the first thing that comes to mind when you see this (pride) flag?"
In response to the post, the three-time NBL champion wrote: "Mental illness".
Not long after Webster deleted the post and issued an apology on Monday night.
The Perth Wildcats announced that 34 year old Webster was stood down for their game against the Adelaide 36ers.
In a statement the Perth Wildcats said "We wish to advise that in light of the last 24 hours, Corey Webster has been stood down from thes match against the Adelaide 36ers.
"The decision has been made following ongoing discussions between Webster and the club. Both parties have agreed that upon further reflection the decision is appropriate.
"Webster wishes to apologise once again, understanding the ramifications of his actions and the potential harm such comments can cause.
"Having expressed sincere disappointment in his comments, the club will continue to use this incident as a learning experience for the wider playing group and staff to further educate on inclusiveness, which is one of the core values of what we stand for as an organisation."
Webster played for Canterbury in this year's New Zealand National League and has played for the Breakers in the past.