South Sudan's Carlik Jones drives to the basket during Sunday's FIBA World Cup qualifying match against Tunisia. | Photo: Courtesy of FIBA

When Carlik Jones sank the decisive buckets in the final seconds of South Sudan’s thrilling victory against Tunisia, he did more than just push the Bright Stars closer to the FIBA Basketball World Cup—he inspired a Juba father to rename his eight-month-old son.

Overwhelmed by the excitement of Sunday’s match, Yuang Philip Akuei decided to officially change his infant’s name from Akuei Yuang to Carlik Akuei Yuang.

The naturalized American-South Sudanese guard has emerged as a cornerstone of the national team, leading the Bright Stars through three consecutive qualifier victories over Guinea, Nigeria, and Tunisia—boosting their Group E record to an impressive seven wins and two losses.

“I named my son after Carlik because he makes us proud as South Sudanese,” Yuang told Eye Radio. “In the last six seconds against Tunisia, he scored two points, and then another two points to secure the win. That excitement inspired me to honor him. This will be his official name—his Christian name is now Carlik Akuei.”

In South Sudanese tradition, naming a child after a public figure is among the highest forms of respect, traditionally reserved for national icons, political leaders, and freedom fighters. For Yuang, honoring a modern sports hero carries the same deep cultural significance.

“I would love my son to grow up and be like Carlik Jones—a hero who dedicates himself to making South Sudan known all over the world,” Yuang reflected. “Honoring a hero is a personal choice. We honor leaders like the late Dr. John Garang and President Salva Kiir. In basketball, we can also name our children after the stars who bring us together. I encourage fellow South Sudanese to celebrate our national heroes and share their names with the world.”

As the Bright Stars continue their historic run on the international court, young Carlik Akuei will carry the legacy of South Sudan’s basketball triumph with him for a lifetime.