Washington Wizards center Nene has claimed that his relationship with Brazilian basketball supporters does not worry him.
Despite enjoying success in the NBA, the 31-year-old has only appeared for Brazil twice since beginning his career in the USA and was recently jeered during a pre-season game in his home country.
"I don't have to defend myself because I didn't steal, I didn't kill and I didn't rob," Nene told the Washington Post.
"Sometimes people try to create a bad situation when one doesn't exist, but I know everything was the best that could be done. I'm here as an example. I know I'm a role model to many people.
"What I was able to conquer, the people can't take away from me. That's one of the reasons basketball has a problem developing in Brazil, but I'm sure that in the future it will be able to grow."
Nene averaged 12.6 points per game for the Wizards last season.
Callum Mulvihill
