Nene reacts to boos in Brazil
Washington Wizards center Nene was the team's unofficial tour guide on their trip to Brazil, but the hometown warmth wore off as soon as he hit the floor.
The San Carlos, Brazil native Nene was treated to a hearty round of boos on his return to his home country, a reaction to his decision not to play for the Brazilian national team.
Nene spoke with Michael Lee of the Washington Post after the game to give his thoughts on the hometown treatment.
Randy Wittman said he kept Nene from playing on national team to rest his injuries. "If Brazil wants to be mad, be mad at me." #wizards
— Michael Lee (@MrMichaelLee) October 12, 2013
Nene on boos: "The important thing is that I'm feeling very happy & I'm representing all of the Brazilian players playing abroad." #wizards
— Michael Lee (@MrMichaelLee) October 13, 2013
Nene on not playing for national team: “I don’t have to defend myself because I didn’t steal, I didn’t kill & I didn’t rob." #wizards
— Michael Lee (@MrMichaelLee) October 13, 2013
Nene continued: "Instead of celebrating this very special & unique moment, people are sticking to some very small things." #wizards
— Michael Lee (@MrMichaelLee) October 13, 2013
It's a shame that the NBA's rare appearance in Brazil may be overshadowed by the reaction to Nene, but national pride can be a funny thing.
Russel Martin knows your pain, Nene. He knows it all too well.