The president of the South Sudan Basketball Federation, Luol Deng, has responded to offensive comments made about the South Sudan Olympic team.
He specifically names Paul Pierce and Gilbert Arenas.
“I am not angry or offended by these ignorant comments made by my former colleagues; “I'm very disappointed to see them coming from two people I've always respected,” said Deng on Instagram. “The comments made by Paul Pierce showed misinformation and a lack of research. However, he used it as a teachable moment to lose integrity when he had knowledge. Thanks to Paul Pierce for the apology, which I would respect.
“Growing up, I heard many of the same expressions, and those expressions are one of the things that inspired me to change the narrative. Africans are now more united and supportive than ever. Times like these are not for us to get angry and frustrated. Many Africans and Black people who embrace their African heritage are working hard to bring all Black people together by teaching and sharing stories and historical moments, teaching that we have more in common than we are different.
“As for Gilbert's words, they were certainly disrespectful and cruel. Personally, I don't care that much. I would never trade places with anyone; being African is special. However, to African and African American children who admire and listen to Gilbert, these comments can make you think less of yourself and make the world think less of Africans. Those who are easily misled may speak words that show more self-loathing than pride. There is nothing about our history that we should run away from.
“Actually, I want to thank both of them for giving us this platform to respond and inform others. We've worked so hard over the last four years to be here, and we can't let just a few seconds take that away. Instead, let's appreciate this moment and use these words as an opportunity to teach. Being loved is always better than being tolerated.
“If we as a people saw the greatness we come from, it would not be possible for us not to respect ourselves.”
During the episode of It cannot be disputed before the South Sudan v USA exhibition game, Pierce mocked the African team saying, “… they probably don't have anyone over 6'3.”
Arenas took things too far though and made some very offensive comments about the South Sudan team, and Joel Embiid.
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