NBL star stood down amid controversy over offensive rainbow flag tweet

In a comment that was later deleted, Webster commented: “Mental illness.”

The Wildcats haven’t confirmed if Webster will play in their last NBL Blitz game on Thursday.

Webster has also locked his account on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

Webster didn’t refer to Humphies in his comment and hasn’t explained what was referring to in his comment.

In the statement issued by the Wildcats, Webster said: “While it certainly wasn’t my intent, I understand the hurt my comments have caused and I am sincerely sorry for this.

“It wasn’t how I intended my comments to be perceived and I will take a break from social media and use that time to better educate myself on the impact comments such as this can make on individuals I may have offended.”

NBL chief executive David Stevenson described Webster’s comment as “insensitive and harmful”.

“We want the NBL to be a safe and inclusive environment at all times and encourage the greater inclusion and wellbeing of LGBTQ players, members and fans,” Stevenson said.

“The community is critical in supporting inclusion and diversity in our society and we all must work together to encourage everyone to be themselves.”

Webster, 34, posted his comment hours after playing in Perth’s 102-95 pre-season win against Cairns on the Gold Coast.

The much-travelled New Zealand star featured in three NBL titles with the Breakers before transferring to Perth last June.

Lifeline 13 11 14

With AAP

Roy Ward is attending the NBL Blitz courtesy of the NBL.