The British Basketball Federation is investigating social media posts made by the chair of Super League Basketball, Sheffield Sharks owner Vaughn Millette, in which he accused a referee of racism.

The incendiary comments, made by Millette on Saturday night after the Sharks lost in SLB to Surrey 89ers, alleged that they had repeatedly received unjust treatment because of their black coach Atiba Lyons.

Lyons was sent off in the game by Eduard Udyanskyy, at whom Millette pointed the finger with a post that read: “There has been an ongoing issue of racism towards my coach from a certain referee for years now.”

In an attempt to highlight his team’s perceived injustice, Millette also posted statistics comparing the win rate of the Sharks and title rivals London Lions with and without Udyanskyy refereeing, and said their pleas for different officials had been ignored.

While SLB’s head of officiating resigned and referees are reported to be considering going on strike in protest, the BBF told City AM it was also investigating Millette’s remarks after they were reported to the governing body. 

“Under the terms of its Interim Licence, SLB Ltd. is currently responsible for the management of officiating in the men’s professional league,” the BBF said. 

“The BBF has received a complaint relating to statements shared on social media. The complaint will be managed through formal integrity procedures in line with FIBA (international federation) regulations.”