ESPN Broadcaster Apologizes For Comments Made During Oilers-Vegas Game

PUBLICATION

Skyler Walker
May 9, 2023 (2:03 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

ESPN SportsCenter anchor John Anderson has recently apologized for his distasteful comments towards Vegas Golden Knights defenceman Zach Whitecloud's name during a highlights segment of the Edmonton Oilers-Vegas Golden Knights series. While going through the game's highlights, Anderson made a joke about Whitecloud's name, which many viewers found offensive.

"What kind of name is Whitecloud? Great name if you're toilet paper." - John Anderson

The comment by Anderson referred to Whitecloud's name being more appropriate for a brand of toilet paper. However, Whitecloud, who hails from the Sioux Valley Dakota Nation in Manitoba, an NHL player and holds his heritage and name with great pride.

Anderson took to Twitter to apologize for his actions and took full responsibility for his mistake. The anchor acknowledged that as a professional in the sports industry, it was his responsibility to be knowledgeable about the background of players and that he had failed to do so.

"This is totally on me, and I sincerely apologize to Zach, the Golden Knights, their fans, and everyone else for what I said. It's my job to be prepared and know the backgrounds of players and I blew it. I will be reaching out to the team to personally apologize and hope to have the opportunity to speak to Zach as well."

He further expressed his remorse and hoped to speak with both Whitecloud and the team personally.

It is essential to note that making derogatory comments about someone's name or ethnicity is unprofessional and insensitive. Anderson's apology is a step in the right direction towards rectifying his mistake and showing respect towards Indigenous players and their culture.