South Sudan secured its first-ever Olympic basketball victory, defeating Puerto Rico 90-79 in the men’s Group C match at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This historic win marks a significant milestone for the world’s newest nation, which only gained independence in 2011.
The South Sudanese team, known as the Bright Stars, entered the Olympics with an inspiring backstory. Ranked 62nd in the world before last year’s FIBA World Cup, they defied expectations by qualifying for the Paris Games as Africa’s top-performing team. Their journey from underdogs to Olympic competitors has captivated fans worldwide.
Star player Carlik Jones led the charge for South Sudan, contributing 19 points in a well-rounded team effort that saw five players reach double figures. The game was closely contested throughout, but South Sudan’s strong finish turned a tight match into a comfortable victory.
“I think it means the world,” Jones said after the game. “It just lets them know that anything’s possible, as long as you just keep working hard and battle adversity. I hope we put a lot of smiles on a lot of people’s faces.”
Puerto Rico started strong, with New Orleans Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado scoring an impressive 19 points in the first half. However, an ankle injury to Alvarado just before halftime disrupted Puerto Rico’s rhythm. Although he returned in the third quarter, his team struggled to regain their earlier form.
South Sudan’s defense proved crucial in the second half, limiting Puerto Rico to just 25 points. The team’s frontcourt length posed challenges for Puerto Rico’s lead guard, Tremont Waters, who shot 6-for-19 from the field. South Sudan also dominated the offensive glass with an 18-10 advantage, compensating for their average shooting performance.
Wenyen Gabriel, another key player for South Sudan, emphasized the significance of the win: “It means everything. It’s a unifying moment. We’re all united through basketball right now and it’s proof of what sport can do for a country.”
Looking ahead, Group C is expected to be dominated by the U.S. and Serbia. However, this victory gives South Sudan a fighting chance to potentially upset expectations and advance to the knockout round. Their next challenge comes on Wednesday, July 31, when they face Team USA in a rematch of an exciting exhibition game held in London earlier this month.
As for Puerto Rico, they will aim to bounce back in their next match against Serbia, also scheduled for Wednesday.
This historic win not only puts South Sudan on the Olympic basketball map but also serves as an inspiration to nations and athletes around the world. It demonstrates that with determination, hard work, and unity, even the newest entrants to the global stage can achieve Olympic glory.
As the basketball tournament at the 2024 Paris Olympics continues, all eyes will be on South Sudan to see if they can build on this momentous victory and continue their inspiring Olympic journey.
