CHN/BRA – Donewald apology after violent scenes in China v Brazil friendly

BEIJING (CBA/CBB) - China coach Bob Donewald has apologized on behalf of the national team for the ugly scenes that erupted between his side and Brazil in a friendly international this week.

The game was played in China's Central Henan province and images of the fracas have been shown around the world.

Donewald, the coach of CBA side Shanghai who was handed the reins of the national team earlier this year and led the Asian giants at the FIBA World Championship in Turkey, spoke at a press conference today.

He read from a prepared statement: "The consequences of this incident and this event are severe. Not only was it against the spirit of competition, our actions were against the adulation of our fans and the well wishing of the entire country.

"We have brought shame and disappointment to this team, to our fans and to this nation. So on behalf of the national team, I offer our sincere apologies to everyone who supports and cares about us."

Donewald and China won a lot of fans for their battling effort at the FIBA World Championship that earned the national team a spot in the Eight-Finals.

The team lost to eventual bronze medalists Lithuania.

"As the national team coach," he added, "I am responsible for my players' behavior on and off the court.

"On reflecting on what happened, I was visibly upset and as always, my players took my lead. Unfortunately moments later, a fight ensued.

"For this unfortunate incident, I assume my responsibility as a head coach. After serious reflections, my players and I have come to realize the significant ramifications of our actions.

"We have learned our lessons. On behalf of Team China, we will act with proper professionalism and we are against all forms of violence."

No punishment has been announced yet by China’s Basketball Association but it could be forthcoming.

Brazil's Basketball Confederation, meanwhile, have offered a brief comment on the incident on their website.

The governing body said on www.cbb.com.br: "The Brazilian Confederation of Basketball (CBB) regrets what happened in the third game of the series of three friendlies between the Brazilian adult male team, represented by the Joinville Basketball Association, and the Chinese team on the Tuesday October 12 and awaits the arrival of delegation to ascertain the facts. After analyzing the video and trip report, the CBB will take the necessary measures.”

FIBA