Ex-Australian player blames Kickert for ‘overreaction’
FORMER Australian national team player Shane Heal blamed Daniel Kickert for Monday’s brawl between Gilas Pilipinas and Australia in the third window of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Asian Qualifiers at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.
“It was a total overreaction and totally out of character from Daniel Kickert to respond the way that he did, by coming and hitting (Roger) Pogoy hard with his forearm,” said Heal in his article entitled “The haunting look on Delly’s face” from the playersvoice.com.au. last July 3.
“Kickert came in to protect his teammate but it was an overreaction and it clearly contributed to what then unfolded; some terrible actions from the Philippines players and officials that escalated in such a surprising way,” added the former National Basketball Association (NBA) player.
Heal played for the Minnesota Timberwolves and San Antonio Spurs in NBA Seasons 1996-1997 and 2003-2004 respectively.
NBA player Thon Maker of the Milwaukee Bucks, who was involved in the melee, apologized on Twitter.
“I am deeply disappointed in the actions displayed during yesterday’s game against the Philippines. Being a war-torn country, basketball for me has always been a means to bring people together,” Maker posted. “I feel a great responsibility as a player to carry myself in a way that promotes peace and unity,” he said @ThonMaker14.
“My hope is that this experience provides a springboard for discussion regarding the security surrounding these games,” he added. “I take responsibility for my actions knowing that they are a result of my desire to protect my teammates and myself.”
Maker was one of the four Australian players ejected in the game, along with Kickert, Nathan Sobey and Christopher James Goulding.
The Philippines had nine players who were thrown out of the game.
“It is a tremendous honor to represent Australia, the Milwaukee Bucks and the NBA and my goal is to reflect that in my conduct and play.”
Australia won via default, 89-53, over Gilas Pilipinas, which played with only three players on the court after the nine were ejected.
FIBA is investigating the incident and is expected to issue a decision soon. JOSEF T. RAMOS
The post Ex-Australian player blames Kickert for ‘overreaction’ appeared first on The Manila Times Online.