ESPN apologizes for poll asking whether voters would want to see KG injured

Star Tribune

Last update: December 12, 2007 - 12:12 AM

ESPN has had to apologize and admit to "very poor judgment" for a poll asking voters whether they would want to see former Timberwolf Kevin Garnett suffer a serious injury.

Garnett, in his first season with the Boston Celtics, told the Boston Herald that he thought the poll was "really distasteful."

"Man, I mean, that's my life, my career," he told the Herald. "You don't joke about something like that."

The question posted last week asked whether voters would want to see:

• The Steelers beat the Patriots.

• Twins star Johan Santana be traded to a team other than the Red Sox.

• Kevin Garnett blow out his knee.

The poll was gone by late Friday.

ESPN released the following statement over the weekend:

"Friday's ESPN.com Page 2 poll used very poor judgment in its option about Kevin Garnett. The poll was removed immediately upon the senior editorial staff becoming aware, and we sincerely regret the error in judgment. We are addressing the issue and apologize to Kevin Garnett, to the Celtics organization and to those offended by the poll question. Obviously, we wish good health to all athletes."

PAUL WALSH