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Thon Maker makes statement; stands strong after Australia-Philippines basketbrawl

3rd July, 2018
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Thon Maker #7 of the Milwaukee Bucks is defended by Marcus Morris #13 of the Detroit Pistons during a game at the BMO Harris Bradley Center on February 13, 2017 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Expert
3rd July, 2018
16
1121 Reads

The fallout from Monday night’s punch-up between Australia and the Philippines is only just beginning, with FIBA launching disciplinary action into both teams, but Australian big man Thon Maker has released an excellent statement following the incident.

Maker was heavily involved in just his second game for the national team, before the match break down into an flat out brawl with punches, cheap shots and chairs being thrown by players, as well as fans, media and officials of the home side.

The South Sudanese-born Australia, who went number ten in the 2016 NBA draft for the Milwaukee Bucks was seen running in and out of the brawl, delivering a series of running kicks to the opposition – although to be fair, none of them connected.

Makers statement was an excellent one, talking about how basketball has played a part in his life, and how this incident should act as a discussion point for security.

With fans becoming involved in the incident, the statement will hit home with Australian basketball fans.

“I am deeply disappointed in the actions displayed during yesterday’s game against the Philippines,” said the statement released by Maker.

“Being from a war-torn country, basketball for me has always been a means to bring people together. I feel a great responsibility as an NBA player to carry myself in a way that promotes peace and unity.

“My hope is that this experience provides a springboard for discussion regarding the security surrounding these games.

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“I take responsibility for my actions knowing that they were a result of my desire to proptect my teammates and myself.

“It is a tremendous honour to represent Australia, the Milwaukee Bucks and the NBA and my goal is to reflect that in my conduct and play.”

Australia’s national league, the NBL has also released a statement from executive chairman Larry Kestleman.

“The NBL stands united with Basketball Australia in condemning the behaviour of players, officials and fans during the Boomers game against the Philippines in Manila last night,” said the statement.

“Our players need to accept responsibility for what happened on the court and any sanctions that follow. However we do not accept what happened on the sidelines when Australian players were attacked by fans and officials including a chair being thrown at one of the Boomers’ players Nathan Sobey and another player Chris Goulding set upon on the floor.

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“This disgraceful behaviour needs to be dealt with by FIBA in the strongest possible manner and we will await the outcome of their investigation. We commend the restraint shown by our players and officials in the circumstances and we are working with Basketball Australia to facilitate the players’ return home in the quickest and safest way possible and protect their welfare.

“We are proud of the NBL’s well earned reputation as a family sport and we are thankful that this sort of behaviour is not a feature of Australian basketball. We have record participation levels, crowds and interest in basketball and we are committed to continuing to deliver a first class product all Australians can enjoy and be proud of.”

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