Luol Deng fires back at disrespectful NBA stars for offending South Sudan

President of the South Sudan Basketball Federation, Luol Deng, responded fiercly to the disrespectful remarks made by former NBA stars Paul Pierce and Gilbert Arenas about the only African team at the Paris Olympics.

Deng, who also spent many years at NBA like the two of them, took to social media to fire back.

"I normally don't pay attention to these types of comments, but as an African, a leader in my community, and the president of the South Sudan Basketball Federation, I feel it is important to respond. This is for those who have asked about these comments, those who are offended by them, and everyone who has followed our story," said Deng.

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Pierce, the former Boston Celtics star, ridiculed South Sudan's roster.

"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. 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," Deng said in the Instagram post.

He also expressed disappointment in Arenas' comments, especially since he was one of the players he admired.

"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."

Arenas shared his thoughts of South Sudan on TikTok, calling the team the "Ahi Ahi Tribe", mocking their culture gesturing blowdarts. He also questioned their equipment and sneakers.

"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," concluded Deng.