Former WNBA Star, Liz Cambage to Switch Allegiance to Nigeria Ahead of Paris Olympics
Former WNBA star Liz Cambage has revealed her decision to leave the Australian national team and embark on a new chapter of her basketball journey by representing Nigeria. The 6-foot-9 center, is celebrated for her impressive career in the WNBA, including three WNBA All-Star game appearances in 2018, 2019, and 2021, as well as leading the league in scoring during her debut season.
In a recent interview conducted by Taylor Rooks of Bleacher Report, Cambage directly addressed a controversy surrounding allegations of racial slurs during a pre-Olympics scrimmage involving the Nigerian national team in 2021.
Reports had surfaced in May 2022, suggesting that Cambage had employed racially offensive language toward players on the Nigerian team, including derogatory terms like “monkeys” and insensitive remarks about returning to a “third-world country.” These alleged comments were said to have been exchanged during a scrimmage between Australia and Nigeria in Las Vegas.
Disputing these claims, Cambage firmly refuted the allegations and asserted her commitment to promoting racial inclusivity and empowerment. In her response, Cambage reaffirmed her pro-Black stance and maintained that she would never resort to racially charged insults. She emphasized her dedication to elevating the voices and experiences of Black individuals.
Cambage expressed her conviction, stating, “I don’t really lean towards racially backed insults. That’s not how I go. I’m very pro-Black. I did not say these [things] to these girls. The truth looks a lot worse for other organizations involved, than using me as a scapegoat.”
Amidst these revelations, Cambage also shared her intention to represent Nigeria, marking a significant shift in her international basketball career. She revealed that Nigeria had extended an invitation for her to play for their national team. Cambage has been engaged in discussions with Nigerian officials regarding her transition, which she believes is an opportunity to set the record straight and participate in a basketball journey aligned with her values.
“We’re filing for me to leave the Australian national team so I can represent Nigeria,” Cambage disclosed. “I’ve been in cahoots. I’ve been talking with them since all of this happened. This is what I mean. People don’t know the truth.”
As Liz Cambage embarks on this new chapter, her decision to represent Nigeria highlights her dedication to the sport and her commitment to fostering positive change within the basketball community.
