Cori, the daughter of former NBA star Corey Benjamin, was involved in a terrible incident where she punched an opposition player in a youth basketball game in Orange County. Corey quickly issued an apology immediately after, stating that he was surprised to see his daughter act in such a manner.
Former Chicago Bulls player Corey Benjamin was apologizing on his daughter's behalf after the teen was caught on camera punching a 15-year-old opponent, knocking her to the ground and leaving her with a concussion, during a basketball game. https://t.co/zZL5yMCnWY
— NBC Los Angeles (@NBCLA) November 12, 2021
Benjamin, who played for the Chicago Bulls after the Michael Jordan era, from 1998 to 2001, and is known for bringing Jordan out of retirement said in a statement:
“To the young lady who was punched by my daughter during a youth basketball game, I sincerely apologize to you and I am praying for your complete healing both physically and emotionally. To her family, I deeply apologize and regret that this happened to your daughter as she did not deserve this to happen to her. Finally, I apologize to all of those who have been impacted and hurt by the actions of my daughter as well as those of her mother. I am here for your family and wish only the best for you. As a father, I’m shocked and disappointed at my daughter’s behavior as this is not a reflection of the values and standards that my family holds. Nor does it exemplify the values, character, and spirit of sportsmanship that the game of basketball requires. My daughter made a mistake. One that she will need to make right. I am committed to getting my daughter any help she may need and support her in taking accountability for her conduct.”
The punch came after the daughter of the NBA star missed a three-point attempt, and it looked there was an exchange of words. In the background, there was a voice yelling, “you better hit her,” with reports suggesting it was the voice of Tyra Hunt, mother of Cori.
Social media has been abuzz since the incident, with individuals suggesting that strict penalties be enforced on both the mother and daughter. Another video resurfaced, showing Cori starting a fight in another basketball game.
Investigations are currently ongoing, as Alice Ham, mother of the victim, filed a police complaint against Tyra and her daughter.
“I want the daughter and the mom held accountable,” Alice Ham told Eyewitness News. “Because this type of behavior is reprehensible and cannot happen in youth sports.”
Corey’s apology has been well received by the family, but they want this to be a start, as they want stricter punishments for the mother and daughter.
