Paul George apologizes for insensitive tweets about domestic violence; Larry Bird issues statement on comments

Indiana Pacers forward Paul George has issued an apology after posting a series of insensitive tweets concerning domestic violence. George has since deleted the tweets.

In his tweets, George was discussing the recent suspension of former Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice. Rice was suspended from the NFL indefinitely and released from the Ravens following the release of video which showed him delivering at least two punches to his then fiancé and current wife Janay Rice. Prior to the video release Rice was only suspended two games for the domestic violence.

According to USA TODAY Sports, here are the tweets George sent out:

Keep it 100 lets act on this police violence like we actin on this Ray Rice case! Stay strong homie !

I don't condone hittin women or think it's coo BUT if SHE ain't trippin then I ain't trippin.. Lets keep it movin lol let that man play!

I get it tho NFL.. You just don't hit women!

If you in a relationship and a woman hit you first and attacking YOU.. Then you obviously ain't beatin HER. Homie made A bad choice!

George would later apologize in both a tweet and in a statement on the Pacers website.

The tweet reads: Let me apologize to the women and to the VICTIMS of domestic violence people my intent was not to downplay the situation..

"I want to apologize to' all victims of domestic abuse for my insensitive tweets," the 24-year old forward said in the statement. They were obviously without proper understanding of the seriousness of the situation and I sincerely regret my poor choice of words."‎

Indiana Pacers president of basketball operations Larry Bird also issued a statement about George's comments on the Pacers' website:

Paul George's tweets from earlier were thoughtless and without regard to the subject of domestic violence and its seriousness in society. We have talked to Paul to strongly express our displeasure and made it clear that the NBA and the Pacers' organization will not condone or tolerate remarks of this nature. Paul understands that he was wrong and why his tweets were so inappropriate and is very apologetic.

George is currently recovering from a fractured leg suffered in the Blue and White scrimmage for USA Basketball. The scrimmage was in preparation for the USA men team's participation in the 2014 FIBA World Cup.