President Salva Kiir has praised South Sudan’s national basketball teams for their achievements on the international stage, describing their performances as a source of national pride

The President made the remarks on Monday after receiving a briefing from South Sudan Basketball Federation President Luol Deng Ajou at the State House in Juba.

According to a Monday statement from the Presidency, Kiir reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting the development of basketball and commended the federation for nurturing young talent and promoting South Sudan internationally.

During the meeting, Luol briefed the President on the progress of both the men’s and women’s national teams, including upcoming international competitions.

He said the women’s national team is preparing to travel to Mexico for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

The women’s team has been preparing well and is ready to represent South Sudan with determination and pride,” Luol said.

On the men’s team, Luol said South Sudan remains in contention for qualification to the FIBA Basketball World Cup.

“Our men’s team is currently enjoying a strong run. We stand at four wins and two losses and are second in our group. We are now heading into the final phase of qualification, which consists of six games, three in August and three in February,” he said.

Luol also presented President Kiir with the bronze medal won by South Sudan’s Under-18 boys’ team during the FIBA Zone 5 Championship in Egypt. The team finished third in the tournament, marking the country’s first appearance with an assembled Under-18 national basketball team.

He said the President expressed pride in the achievements and encouraged the players and coaching staff to continue striving for success.

“The President is very proud whenever he receives good news about our teams winning and raising the South Sudan flag on the international stage,” Luol said.

“Our basketball teams have elevated the country’s profile globally and have given people around the world a reason to speak positively about South Sudan.”

South Sudan has emerged as one of Africa’s fastest-rising basketball nations in recent years, with its national teams gaining international recognition through strong performances in regional and global competitions.