Ex-NBA star Gilbert Arenas apologizes for 'xenophobic' rant directed at South Sudan following near-upset of Team USA in London

Former Washington Wizards prima Gilbert Arenas has apologized to ex-NBA standout Luol Deng for his comments astir South Sudan's hoops squad that were viewed by immoderate arsenic xenophobic.

Arenas drew ire for remarks belittling nan squad - who almost hit Team USA successful an accumulation lucifer successful London past weekend.

'We almost mislaid to nan Ahi Ahi tribe. This is crazy, [Joel] Embiid complete there, throwing nan crippled for his cousins and s***,' Arenas said aft nan loss. He besides mimicked a rustle dart and took a changeable astatine nan value of life successful South Sudan saying they 'get their shoes from America' and that they 'don't moreover person hoops rims... they shootin' connected peach baskets successful dirt.'

Deng, nan president of nan South Sudan Basketball Federation, called retired Arenas successful an Instagram post.

'Moments for illustration this are not for america to get upset and lash out. Many Africans and Black group who clasp their African practice are moving difficult to bring each Black group person by educating and sharing stories and historical moments, school that we person overmuch much successful communal than differences,' Deng's station read.

Deng called Arenas' comments 'disrespectful and cruel' earlier continuing: 'Personally, I don’t attraction much. I would ne'er waste and acquisition places pinch anyone; being African is special. However, for young African and African American kids who respect and perceive to Gilbert, these comments tin make you deliberation little of yourself and make nan remainder of nan world deliberation little of Africans. 

'Those who are easy misled whitethorn make comments that bespeak self-hate much than pride. There is thing astir our history that we should tally distant from.'

Deng thanked Arenas and different ex-NBAer who made akin comments, Paul Pierce, for 'giving america this level to respond and pass others'.

'We've worked very difficult successful nan past 4 years to beryllium here, and we can't let specified seconds to return that away. Instead, let's admit nan infinitesimal and usage these comments arsenic an opportunity to educate. Being loved is ever amended than being tolerated.'

After proceeding of Deng's reaction, Arenas posted an apology to his Instagram story.

'@luoldeng9 I respected u arsenic a subordinate and will arsenic a coach (Sorry for my Disrespectful comments) Good luck but not capable luck to triumph nan Gold "Silver" is each urs.'