Sports
Basketball’s Role in Opening Opportunities for South Sudanese Abroad

South Sudanese Basketball Success Stories
South Sudanese people are known for their athleticism and tall stature, which has led many of them to excel in the sport of basketball. Former NBA star Arek Deng, who now heads the Luol Deng Basketball Foundation, has been instrumental in nurturing young basketball talents in the country. Thanks to basketball, many South Sudanese individuals have earned scholarships and found success in the sport.
The late Manute Bol played a crucial role in promoting basketball in South Sudan during a time of civil unrest. He encouraged many South Sudanese to take up the sport, leading to several individuals from the country making a name for themselves in the NBA. Players like Deng Gai, Mangok, Mathiang, Thon Maker, Deng Adel, Wenyen Gabriel, Francisco Elson, and Luol Deng have become famous worldwide due to their basketball skills.
Arek Deng’s efforts have resulted in numerous South Sudanese players enrolling in basketball programs in the USA and Australia. Many individuals are now playing for basketball clubs and colleges in the Middle East and Europe, showcasing the growth and development of the sport in the country.
Arek herself benefited from a basketball scholarship, as did her siblings. She emphasizes the positive impact of basketball scholarships in transforming lives and creating job opportunities for South Sudanese individuals. Basketball teaches discipline, hard work, teamwork, and the importance of following instructions, shaping individuals into well-rounded and disciplined people.
Proper networking and coordination between former scholarship recipients and aspiring players are crucial for securing opportunities in the sport. Academic qualifications are essential for obtaining basketball scholarships, highlighting the importance of education alongside sports.
Arek Deng, a graduate of the University of Delaware, has played basketball internationally and professionally in Europe. She holds degrees in International Relations and Development and Refugee Studies, showcasing her dedication to both basketball and education. As the CEO of the Luol Deng Foundation, Arek continues to support young basketball talents in South Sudan and beyond.
Overall, the success stories of South Sudanese individuals in basketball highlight the potential for growth and excellence in the sport within the country and across the continent. With the right facilities and support, young basketball players in South Sudan can achieve great success and make a positive impact on the world stage.
Sports
South Sudan transfer deadline completed deals

It was a busy day for administrators at the Juba Local Football Association and SSFA as clubs from various divisions flocked to the secretariat’s office to sign and register new players before the midnight deadline. Ahead of the second round of fixtures in the first division, teams were eager to strengthen their squads for the upcoming matches.
Excitement in the Air
The atmosphere at the office was filled with excitement as players and club officials waited in line to complete the registration process. Young talents hoping to make a name for themselves in the local football scene were seen nervously clutching their documents, while experienced players looked confident as they finalized their transfers to new clubs.
Last-Minute Deals
As the deadline drew nearer, the pace of activity at the office picked up. Clubs were scrambling to complete last-minute deals, with negotiations going down to the wire. Some clubs were looking to bolster their defenses, while others were in search of prolific strikers to boost their attacking options.
Competition Intensifies
With the transfer window closing, the competition in the local football scene was set to intensify. Clubs that had successfully secured the services of top players were expected to perform well in the upcoming matches. Fans were eagerly anticipating the debut of new signings and were hopeful that their teams would rise to the occasion.
Player Transfers
Several high-profile player transfers were completed on the deadline day, with some familiar faces making moves to rival clubs. The reshuffling of players across different teams added an element of unpredictability to the league, making it difficult to predict the outcomes of future matches.
Looking Ahead
As the dust settled on the busy day of transfers, clubs were already looking ahead to the second round of fixtures. Coaches were busy strategizing and preparing their teams for the challenges that lay ahead. Players were eager to showcase their skills and make an impact on the pitch.
Conclusion
The deadline day for player registrations was a whirlwind of activity and excitement in the local football scene. With new signings in place, clubs were ready to face the challenges of the upcoming matches. The competition was set to heat up as teams battled it out on the field, with fans eagerly anticipating the drama and thrill of the beautiful game.
Sports
Semifinals Begin for Development Basketball Leagues in Juba

The Manut Bol Basketball Court playoff semifinals are in full swing at the University of Juba, with three exciting basketball tournaments taking place.
Development Leagues
The Manut Bol Development League (MBDL), Luol Deng Development League (LDDL), and HER Time, the girls’ first-ever basketball tournament, are all currently underway. These leagues were launched on different dates, with the MBDL and LDDL starting on July 16, 2021, and HER Time kicking off on October 16, 2021.
Competition Details
According to coach Tony Opira Salvatore, the playoff tournaments feature ten teams, with four teams from each league making it to the semifinals and finals. The championship games are scheduled to begin on December 6, showcasing the top two teams from each league.
Purpose of the Leagues
The tournaments aim to nurture young basketball talent, instill discipline, promote peace and unity among kids from various regions in South Sudan, and recognize academic and athletic achievements. They serve as a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and passion for the game.
Playoff Fixtures
The playoff semifinals started on January 12, 2021, with games being played simultaneously on different courts. The schedule includes matchups between teams like Kapoeta and Yei, Renk and Wounruk, Yirol and Terkaka, War-awar and Maban, Bisellia and Kajo-keji, Maguei and Anet, among others.
The action-packed playoff games promise to keep basketball enthusiasts on the edge of their seats as young talents compete for glory on the court. Stay tuned for the championship games that will determine the ultimate winners of the Manut Bol Development League, Luol Deng Development League, and HER Time tournament.
Sports
Nile City defeats Young Star for first win of the season

Nile City Secures First Win of the Season
After a long and challenging dry season, Nile City Football Club finally secured their first win on Monday, defying the odds and surprising many of their critics. The team’s victory came in a match against Young Star, where they emerged triumphant with a convincing 4-0 scoreline.
A Sigh of Relief
Throughout the season, Nile City had struggled with poor performance, leading many to doubt their capabilities. However, their determination and fighting spirit shone through as they put on a remarkable display at the Juba National Stadium.
Star Players Shine
Bakoyego and Deng Akwach, two standout players for Nile City, played a crucial role in the team’s victory. Akwach opened the scoring early in the 2nd minute, setting the tone for the match with a brilliant finish.
Not to be outdone, Deng Akwach added a second goal, exploiting Young Star’s weak defense to extend Nile City’s lead to 2-0.
Bakoyego continued the onslaught with a goal of his own in the 29th minute, further showcasing Nile City’s dominance on the pitch. He later scored his second goal of the day, sealing the victory for his team with a commanding 4-0 lead.
A Team Effort
The entire Nile City squad put in a stellar performance, marking a significant turnaround for a team that had previously struggled to secure wins. The victory was a testament to their hard work and dedication on the field.
Looking Ahead
Despite their recent success, Nile City remains at the bottom of the South Sudan Premier League standings. However, the win has boosted their points tally to 12, offering hope for a brighter future as they continue to strive for success in the league.
Overall, Nile City’s first win of the season was a cause for celebration and a much-needed morale boost for the team. With their spirits high, they will look to build on this success and continue their journey towards greater achievements in the league.
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