16-year-old Greek national team player Lisa Itoya stands against racist comments

Sixteen-year-old Lisa Itoya, a rising star for the Greek U16 national basketball team, has spoken out against racist comments she has received due to her skin color. Despite her exceptional performance on the court, Itoya has been targeted by hateful remarks questioning her right to play for Greece.

Born in Greece to Nigerian parents, Itoya proudly identifies as Greek-Nigerian. She addressed the criticism through an Instagram post, asserting her strong connection to Greece, the country she calls home. "I could be in Nigeria playing there, but I chose the country where I was born, the country where I grew up, and the country I call home," she stated.

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I am Greek-Nigerian. I could be in Nigeria playing there, but I chose the country where I was born, the country where I grew up, and the country I call home.

Itoya's powerful response underscores her maturity and resilience. She declared that external judgment and attempts to bring her down will not define her. "You can judge me, you can doubt me, you can try to knock me down, but you will never define me," she asserted, attributing her strength to her faith.

As she continues to excel in the EuroBasket U16 tournament, Itoya serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that passion and talent transcend prejudice. Her message resonates with the idea that everyone has the right to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background or the opinions of others.

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You can judge me, you can doubt me, you can try to knock me down, but you will never define me.