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 presence for the youth in South Sudan, who look up to them as role models and dream of future success in the sport. Luol Deng, a two-time NBA All-Star and president of South Sudan’s basketball federation, highlighted the significance of their journey, which transcends the game itself. “We’re going out there to represent something that’s bigger than ourselves,” Deng remarked, underscoring the team’s mission to inspire their fellow citizens. Gabriel echoed this sentiment, noting that even if other African teams are not present, they feel the support from the continent. South Sudan, which gained independence just over a decade ago, has rapidly developed its basketball program, with its first competitive match occurring in 2017. The team is now set to compete in Group C at the Olympics, facing formidable opponents including the USA, Serbia, and Puerto Rico. Despite the challenges ahead, the players remain optimistic, focusing on the goal of competing fiercely in every game without setting limits on their potential achievements.