Rajon Rondo Makes Stronger Apology For Gay Slur Toward Referee

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Sacramento Kings guard Rajon Rondo has offered a stronger apology for directing a gay slur at veteran NBA referee Bill Kennedy.

Rondo said Monday his actions toward Kennedy on Dec. 3 were out of frustration and not meant to offend anyone.

Rondo issued a statement Tuesday addressing those who viewed his initial statement as a non-apology. He said: "I want to be clear, from the bottom of my heart that I am truly sorry for what I said to Bill. There is no place on or off the court for language that disrespects anyone's sexual orientation. That is not who I am or what I believe and I will strive every day to be a better person."

Kennedy told Yahoo Sports he is gay.

Rondo is serving a one-game suspension.