Australian basketball star Liz Cambage has categorically denied allegations of using racist language toward Nigerian teammates during a pre-Olympic training session, as reported by Australian media. The 30-year-old Opals player withdrew from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics citing mental health challenges linked to pandemic-related isolation.
Footage circulating in Australian outlets claimed a heated practice match in Las Vegas involved Cambage directing derogatory remarks at Nigerian players, including a reference to their homeland as a 'third world country' and racial slurs. The allegations, attributed to multiple players, reportedly led to her decision to exit the Olympic team.
Cambage, who won bronze with Australia at the 2012 London Games, issued a statement through Instagram rejecting the claims. 'The media's portrayal of events is inaccurate and misleading,' she said. 'I did not use the racial slur attributed to me, nor did I intentionally harm any opponent.'
The controversy followed her earlier criticism of the Australian Olympic Committee over perceived lack of diversity in promotional materials. The committee later pledged to improve representation in future campaigns. Cambage also announced in December 2021 her disinterest in participating in the upcoming Women's Basketball World Cup in Australia.
