South Sudan’s men’s basketball team made a stunning debut at the 2024 Paris Olympics, defeating Puerto Rico 90-79. For Luol Deng, the President of the South Sudan Basketball Federation, this victory was a significant milestone in a journey that transcends sports.
A Historic Olympic Debut
South Sudan, the world’s youngest country, celebrated its first-ever Olympic basketball win. The victory was more than just a game; it was a moment of national pride and unity. Deng expressed his emotions, saying, “When the national anthem was sung, it just gave me goosebumps. I realized that this was bigger than basketball.”
Luol Deng’s Journey
Deng, a former two-time NBA All-Star, has a unique connection to South Sudan. Born in Wau, South Sudan, his family fled to Egypt due to the Second Sudanese Civil War. They later moved to the UK, where Deng began his basketball career. He eventually played in the NBA for teams like the Chicago Bulls and Miami Heat.
After retiring in 2019, Deng focused on representing South Sudan on the global stage. As the team’s assistant coach and president, he has been instrumental in building the program from the ground up.
Building the Team
The South Sudan team comprises many players with refugee backgrounds, mirroring Deng’s own journey. “We didn’t just randomly put a team together,” Deng noted. “I’ve known many of these players since they were young. They believed in this vision, and now we’re here.”
Funding and Commitment
Deng has personally funded the team, demonstrating his deep commitment to the cause. South Sudan’s basketball team first competed internationally in 2017 and quickly rose to prominence. They qualified for the 2023 World Cup, finishing 17th, and secured a spot in the Olympics as Africa’s top team.
A Message Beyond Sports
Deng emphasized that the team’s success sends a powerful message. “We’re not just happy to be here,” he said. “We play to win and represent our continent with pride. We want people to see that we’re well-coached and have great players.”
Looking Ahead
South Sudan’s next challenge is a rematch against Team USA, featuring stars like LeBron James and Kevin Durant. Regardless of the outcome, Deng and his team have already made a significant impact.
“We want to make people proud of how we play,” Deng concluded. The South Sudan basketball team’s journey is a story of resilience, unity, and hope, inspiring many beyond the court.(188jili)