LB Wilson Principal Says Badminton Player Was Misquoted

Long Beach Wilson Principal Al Taylor denied allegations that Hoang Bui, a badminton player from his school, gained entry to the Southern Section mixed doubles championships under less-than-sporting circumstances, as reported in Friday’s edition of The Times Orange County.

The Times reported that Bui intentionally lost to a teammate in the Moore League semifinals in order to gain a prom date. When asked by The Times, Bui confirmed the information.

“[Bui] says that he was misquoted,” Taylor said Friday. “He said he was excited over winning that match.”

Taylor added the late entry of Bui and partner Sophy Chung into the section finals came after Lehka Chheng, whom was listed as Lee Cheng, missed four days of school because of illness and was unable to compete with his partner, Sara Vang. Taylor said section representatives told Wilson it could use alternates.

Bui and Chung defeated top-seeded Diamond Bar’s Jay Bao and Alicia King, 18-14, 15-1, to win the section title.