I never expected to find myself having to defend my character in this way. I’ve always tried to live simply, play the game I love, and let my actions speak louder than words. But recently, I’ve been forced into a position where silence is no longer an option.
I have been falsely labeled a racist.
The accusation didn’t come with proof, context, or even a sincere effort to understand. It came as a headline, a social media clip, a whisper campaign that grew louder, fueled by emotion and driven by people who don’t know me — not really. What started as an unfounded claim quickly spiraled into something much bigger, more harmful, and deeply personal.
To anyone who knows me, the idea that I hold any form of hate or prejudice in my heart is not just false — it’s offensive. I was born and raised in Sombor, Serbia, in a working-class family where we were taught to respect everyone, regardless of where they came from or who they were. Basketball has taken me all over the world. It has introduced me to people of every background, every faith, and every culture. My teammates are my brothers, my coaches are my mentors, and my fans are my family. I don’t see color or nationality when I’m on the court — I see people. Teammates. Competitors. Friends.
So why was this lie spread?
I don’t claim to understand all the motives, but it seems clear that someone — or perhaps a group — wanted to tear me down. Maybe it was envy. Maybe it was to generate clicks or controversy. Maybe it was a calculated move to stir up division and anger among the very people who have supported me throughout my career. Whatever the reason, the damage they tried to inflict was real.
In today’s world, where a single viral post can destroy years of trust, this kind of false accusation is not just unfair — it’s dangerous. It undermines real conversations about racism and justice. It makes it harder for people to speak honestly. And worst of all, it weaponizes something very serious to settle personal or political scores.
I’ve always believed in humility, in working hard, and in letting my play speak for itself. I’m not someone who talks a lot. I don’t seek attention. But I will not allow this lie to define me. I will not let it distort what I’ve built — not just the championships, not just the MVPs, but the relationships, the respect, and the quiet pride of knowing I’ve always played the game the right way.
To my fans, I want to say thank you — for sticking by me, for not rushing to judgment, and for understanding the difference between truth and rumor. To those who may have doubted me, I hope you’ll take the time to look at who I am, how I live, and what I stand for. I don’t expect everyone to love me, but I do expect fairness. I expect basic decency.
I will continue to play with passion and with heart. I will continue to respect every person who shares this court, this league, and this game with me. And I will not let lies break what I’ve built — because I know who I am.