South Sudan Basketball Federation president Luol Deng has responded to the offensive comments that were made about the South Sudan Olympic team.
He specifically names Paul Pierce and Gilbert Arenas.
“I’m not upset or angry at these ignorant remarks made by my former colleagues; I was more disappointed to see them coming from two individuals I’ve always respected,” Deng said on Instagram. “The comments made by Paul Pierce showed misinformation and a lack of research. However, he used it as a teachable moment to shed positivity once he was informed. Thank you to Paul Pierce for apologising, that i can respect.
“Growing up, I heard many similar comments, and those very remarks are some of the things that motivated me to change the narrative. Africans now show solidarity and support for each other more than ever. Moments like this are not for us to get upset and lash out. Many Africans and Black people who embrace their African heritage are working hard to bring all Black people closer by educating and sharing stories and historic moments, teaching that we have much more in common than differences.
“As for Gilbert’s comments, they were certainly more disrespectful and cruel. Personally, I don’t care much. I would never trade places with anyone; being African is special. However, for young African and African American kids who admire and listen to Gilbert, these comments can make you think less of yourself and make the rest of the world think less of Africans. Those who are easily misled may make comments that reflect self-hate more than pride. There is nothing about our history that we should run away from.
“I actually want to thank both of them for giving us this platform to respond and inform others. We’ve worked very hard in the last four years to be here, and we can’t allow mere seconds to take that away. Instead, let’s appreciate the moment and use these comments as an opportunity to educate. Being loved is always better than being tolerated.
“If we as a people realized the greatness from which we came we would be less likely to disrespect ourselves.”
During an episode of Undisputed before South Sudan v USA’s exhibition game, Pierce mocked the African team and said, “… they probably don’t have anybody over 6’3.”
Arenas took things a step too far though and made some extremely offensive comments about the South Sudan team, as well as Joel Embiid.