Chinese media have tenuously linked Andrew Bogut's post-game shot at FIBA with the on-going booing he's received as he waits on a possible suspension or fine ahead of Sunday's bronze medal game against France.
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The Boomers centre was called for a foul late in regulation time against Spain, with Marc Gasol hitting both shots to put his side ahead in the World Cup basketball clash, which they won in double overtime.
Fox Sports reported that Bogut yelled: "Cheating a**e motherf***ers... Google where headquarters of f***ing FIBA is... f***ing disgrace" as he went to the dressing room following the event's first double overtime in a knockout game.
Bogut had earlier rubbed his fingers together in a money gesture after he was called for the foul, while it was later pointed out that FIBA's headquarters is actually in Switzerland.
FIBA is still to confirm if Bogut will cop a fine or suspension for his spray as the Boomers dust themselves off for a rematch with France, who they beat 100-98 in the second round on Monday.
It comes as Bogut continues to be booed with every touch of the basketball following his social media dig at controversial Chinese swimmer Sun Yang in the lead-up to the World Cup, while he also took a swipe at the "shambolic" nature of travelling around China earlier this week.
Post-match reports by a local journalist on Chinese social media channel Weibo then wrongfully claimed Bogut's spray had been directed at the country, rather than the sport's governing body.
Those assertions gained traction and Chinese media hovering at the team's optional training on Saturday were disappointed to find the NBA's former No.1 draft pick did not attend.
However, Bogut's relationship with his Chinese fans, who continue to queue for selfies with the Sydney Kings star in the street, is far from mind as the side turns their attention to France.
A win for the Boomers would still mean a maiden international medal, albeit a bittersweet one after coming so close to guaranteeing silver or gold by defeating Spain.
Boomers assistant Luc Longley colourfully suggested Spain had their share of luck but said complaining about particular calls wasn't healthy.
"It's not in our best interests," Longley said.
"We've got to play another game and we've still got a chance to get a medal.
"Now's not the time to be pointing fingers or spitting dummies. We've got to reload and do a job."
Australian Associated Press
