By John Kusolo
South Sudan is set to make its third appearance at the Summer Olympics in Paris from July 26 to August 11, 2024. The country, which made its Olympic debut in 2016, is sending a total of 14 athletes to compete in two sports: athletics and basketball.
Athletics
South Sudan will be represented by two middle-distance runners in athletics, one male and one female. These athletes will be competing in track events, showcasing their talents on the global stage.
Men's 800 meters: Abraham Guem
Abraham Guem is scheduled to compete in the men's 800 meters. As one of the nation's leading middle-distance runners, Guem aims to make a significant impact in his event.
Women's 100 meters: Lucia Moris
Lucia Moris will be representing South Sudan in the women's 100 meters. Her participation marks an important step for South Sudanese women in athletics, highlighting the progress and potential of female athletes in the nation.
Basketball
For the first time in history, the South Sudan men's basketball team has qualified for the Olympics. This remarkable achievement comes through their performance at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, where they emerged as the highest-ranked team from the African zone. South Sudan, the youngest basketball nation to ever qualify for the Olympics, is poised to make a memorable debut in Paris.
The men's basketball team will compete in the 5×5 basketball event. Their journey in the tournament is eagerly anticipated, and they will face strong opposition in the group stage, including teams from Puerto Rico, the United States, and Serbia.
South Sudan Men's Basketball Team Roster
Carlik Jones (PG, Partizan, 26 years old, 1.83 m)
Nuni Omot (F, Ningbo Rockets, 29 years old, 2.06 m)
Khaman Maluach (C, Duke Blue Devils, 17 years old, 2.16 m)
Bul Kuol (SF, Sydney Kings, 27 years old, 2.04 m)
Kuany Kuany (C) (SF, Free agent, 30 years old, 2.01 m)
Wenyen Gabriel (F/C, Maccabi Tel Aviv, 27 years old, 2.06 m)
JT Thor (PF, Charlotte Hornets, 21 years old, 2.10 m)
Marial Shayok (SG, Shandong Hi-Speed Kirin, 29 years old, 1.98 m)
Jackson Makoi (PG, Cairns Taipans, 24 years old, 1.93 m)
Majok Deng (PF, 31 years old)
Peter Jok (SG, Ottawa BlackJacks, 30 years old, 1.98 m)
Sunday Dech (G, 30 years old)
The South Sudan men's basketball team will compete fiercely, aiming to advance through the group stage and make their mark in the quarterfinals, semifinals, and potentially the finals. Their participation is not only a historic milestone for South Sudan but also a source of immense pride and inspiration for the nation.
South Sudan's third appearance at the Summer Olympics symbolizes the country's growing presence in international sports. The participation of athletes in both athletics and basketball underscores the nation's dedication to nurturing talent and achieving excellence on the global stage. As the athletes prepare to compete in Paris, they carry the hopes and aspirations of their country, aiming to inspire future generations and elevate South Sudan's status in the world of sports.
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