FIBA, according to Basketball Australia, ruled out the usage of racist language during the Gilas Pilipinas-Australia match on July 2 at the Philippine Arena which led to the brawl.
Allegations of racism emerged in the days and weeks before the Fiba decision was announced on Thursday, with a Filipino photographer saying in an interview over Australian radio that he heard the words ‘monkey’ allegedly being uttered during the match.
Basketball Australia, however, said in its statement on Thursday the Fiba didn’t find any incidents of the use of discriminatory and racist language in the game.
“We also welcome FIBA’s finding in its report that no discriminatory or racist language was used by Australian Boomers players, nor did it incite the incident as has been alleged.
Basketball Australia on Thursday said it has acknowledged the decision made by Fiba, but will seek further clarifications about possible sanctions against “other officials and fans” that were involved in the incident.
The federation, however, said it is unlikely they will appeal the decision as they now look forward to their next matches in the Fiba Basketball World Cup Asian qualifiers second round.
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