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

Former Washington Wizards star Gilbert Arenas has apologized to ex-NBA standout Luol Deng for his comments about South Sudan's basketball team that were viewed by some as xenophobic.

Arenas drew ire for remarks belittling the team - who almost beat Team USA in an exhibition match in London last weekend.

'We almost lost to the Ahi Ahi tribe. This is crazy, [Joel] Embiid over there, throwing the game for his cousins and s***,' Arenas said after the loss. He also mimicked a blow dart and took a shot at the quality of life in South Sudan saying they 'get their shoes from America' and that they 'don't even have basketball rims... they shootin' on peach baskets in dirt.'

Deng, the president of the South Sudan Basketball Federation, called out Arenas in an Instagram post.

'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,' Deng's post read.

Deng called Arenas' comments 'disrespectful and cruel' before continuing: '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.'

Deng thanked Arenas and another ex-NBAer who made similar comments, Paul Pierce, for 'giving us this platform to respond and inform others'.

'We've worked very hard in the last four years to be here, and we can't allow mere seconds to take that away. Instead, let's appreciate the moment and use these comments as an opportunity to educate. Being loved is always better than being tolerated.'

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

'@luoldeng9 I respected u as a player and will as a coach (Sorry for my Disrespectful comments) Good luck but not enough luck to win the Gold "Silver" is all urs.'