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Luol Deng criticizes biased officiating and lack of African referees after South Sudan's Olympic basketball exit against Serbia.
Two-time NBA All-Star and president of South Sudan basketball Luol Deng expressed deep dissatisfaction with the officiating at the Olympic men's basketball tournament after South Sudan's elimination in the group stage.
The South Sudanese squad faced a 96-85 defeat against Serbia at Pierre Mauroy Stadium in Villeneuve d'Ascq, France, a result that Deng attributes in part to biased refereeing.
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South Sudan's Olympic journey, historic in its own right as the nation's first appearance in the men's basketball tournament, ended with frustration as the disparity in officiating raised eyebrows.
Serbia was awarded 31 free throws compared to just six for South Sudan, and the Serbs were called for seven fewer fouls than their African counterparts.
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Deng did not hold back his criticism pointing out what he perceives as a longstanding bias against African teams.
"It's a narrative and a stigma that's out there that African players are aggressive," Deng remarked.
He also highlighted the absence of African referees in the tournament, questioning the inclusivity of the event.
"I don't know why there are no African referees in the Olympics. It's 2024," he said.
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The former Boston Celtics star had mocked South Sudan’s basketball team ahead of their friendly with Team USA but had to quickly apologise when the African nation ran America close.
The former Chicago Bulls forward also questioned the understanding of African basketball styles by the non-African referees present.
"But if these referees aren’t familiar with our game, with our style, then I don’t know what the world championship or the Olympics is. Is it just a European basketball style and we’re not allowed to be aggressive?” Deng asked, challenging the notion that international competitions should accommodate a broader range of playing styles.
South Sudan’s head coach, Royal Ivey, echoed Deng's sentiments, calling the officiating "a travesty."
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A former NBA player himself, Ivey voiced his frustration by stating he would have preferred a decisive loss rather than feeling they were undermined by biased officiating.
"I would have rather my team lose by 30 than deal with what their side believed to be a biased whistle," Ivey asserted.
South Sudan has rapidly developed a reputation for its tenacious, hard-nosed basketball, characterized by high-pressure defense and relentless pursuit of loose balls.
Their near-upset of Team USA during an exhibition game last month served as a testament to their capabilities and competitiveness on the international stage.
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Despite the outcome, South Sudan's participation in the Olympic men's basketball tournament marked a significant milestone for the nation, showcasing their growth and potential in the sport.
The team, however, had hoped for more than just participation, setting their sights on making a deep run in the tournament.
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