DENNIS RODMAN ANGRILY refused to answer questions about an American compatriot jailed in North Korea on Tuesday, complaining that criticism of Pyongyang’s rights record had overshadowed an exhibition game he has organized.
The former professional basketball star plans to stage a game on Wednesday with several other former NBA players to mark the birthday of North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un.
Asked by CNN if he would take advantage of the event to make the case that jailed American missionary Kenneth Bae should be freed, Rodman grew angry.
I don’t give a rat’s ass what the hell you think,” Rodman told the interviewer in his tirade, broadcast from the North Korean capital.
Rodman implied that Bae had done something that warranted being thrown into prison, but would not be drawn on what it was.
“Kenneth Bae did one thing… If you understand what Kenneth Bae did,” Rodman said, in disjointed remarks that quickly devolved into a rant, gesturing for emphasis with a cigar in his hand.
“Do you understand what he did in this country? Why is he held captive here in this country. I would love to speak on this,” said Rodman, sporting lip and nasal piercings and dark sun glasses.
The four-time All Star expressed frustration that at the focus of his visit has been North Korea’s rights record, rather than sport.
“You know, you’ve got 10 guys here, 10 guys here, they’ve left their families, they’ve left their damn families, to help this country, as in a sports venture. That’s 10 guys, all these guys here, does anyone understand that?” he said.
YouTube credit: Selena Miratz
