South Sudan Eliminated from the Olympics by Serbia

 

South Sudan’s inspiring journey in the 2024 Paris Olympics men’s basketball tournament came to an end today after a hard-fought battle against Serbia. The South Sudanese team, participating in their first-ever Olympic Games, was eliminated with a final score of 96-85​ (FIBA Basketball)​​ (Paris 2024 Olympics)​.

Serbia, led by standout performances from Bogdan Bogdanovic and Nikola Jokic, showcased their experience and skill, gradually pulling away from South Sudan despite the latter’s spirited effort. The game was closely contested through the first three quarters, with Serbia holding a narrow lead of 47-44 at halftime. However, Serbia’s consistency and a strong fourth quarter secured their victory​ (FIBA Basketball)​.

South Sudan’s Olympic campaign was historic and full of significant milestones. They secured their first Olympic win earlier in the tournament against Puerto Rico, marking a momentous achievement for the young nation​ (Paris 2024 Olympics)​. Despite their elimination, the team has gained widespread admiration for their resilience and talent.

Luol Deng, the president of the South Sudan Basketball Federation, expressed pride in the team’s performance but also raised concerns about the officiating, suggesting a disparity in fouls called against his team compared to their opponents​(FIBA Basketball)​.

Overall, South Sudan’s debut in the Olympics has been a testament to their rapid growth in basketball and has set a strong foundation for future international competitions. Their journey, from qualifying through the FIBA World Cup to competing on the Olympic stage, has been an inspirational story of determination and progress.