South Sudan's Basketball Team Prepares for Olympic Challenge

As the United States continues to dominate men’s Olympic basketball, South Sudan is making its debut on the international stage, fueled by a sense of pride and inspiration. Gabriel, a player on the team, expressed his excitement about representing a nation that has only recently emerged, stating, “It’s just an honor to me.” He emphasized the importance of their journey, noting that young people in South Sudan look up to them, hoping to follow in their footsteps. Luol Deng, a two-time NBA All-Star and president of South Sudan’s basketball federation, highlighted the significance of their participation, stating, “It’s a journey that’s bigger than basketball.” Deng, who fled to the UK as a refugee before establishing his career in the U.S., has been a pivotal figure in South Sudan’s basketball development. He acknowledged the support from other African nations, even those not competing, as they rally behind South Sudan’s historic Olympic appearance. Since gaining independence just over a decade ago, South Sudan's basketball team has rapidly progressed, playing its first competitive match only in 2017. The team is set to face formidable opponents in Group C, including the USA, Serbia, and Puerto Rico, all of which feature NBA talent. Despite the challenges ahead, players like Gabriel and Ivey remain focused on competing fiercely in every game, refusing to set limits on their potential achievements.