South Sudan basketball: rise and where to watch
South Sudan basketball has become one of Africa's most exciting stories. Since independence, the nation used basketball to build pride, and a string of talented players with South Sudanese roots helped put the country on the map. Fans now watch a competitive national team in African qualifiers and follow young leagues growing in Juba and beyond.
Rise of the team
The rise happened fast. South Sudan joined FIBA and began playing sanctioned international matches, focused on scouting diaspora players and investing in coaching. The federation worked with former pros and local coaches to run camps, develop youth teams, and create a clear pathway from school courts to the national squad. It turned scattered talent into a real team able to compete with established African nations.
Wonder who to watch? The national team mixes homegrown players and athletes with dual nationality who play overseas. Many of these players train in the US and Australia, bringing pro experience back to the national program. That blend of athleticism, length, and pace gives South Sudan a physical style that can unsettle opponents.
Watch & support
If you want to follow games and news, start with reliable sources. Follow the South Sudan Basketball Federation on social media for rosters and local updates. Check FIBA's website and app for schedules, box scores, and official standings. Sports streaming platforms carry AfroBasket and World Cup qualifier games — sign up for regional broadcasters or set alerts on your favorite sports apps to catch live streams.
Want to support the game locally? Attend community matches when you visit, donate to grassroots programs that buy balls and shoes, or volunteer by coaching a clinic. Contributions go a long way in towns where a single set of hoops can change a whole neighbourhood's opportunities. If you’re abroad, spreading word, buying official shirts, or helping fund travel costs for youth teams makes a tangible difference.
For younger players, here are practical tips. Train with purpose: work on ball handling and conditioning three times a week, play pick-up games to learn spacing, and watch film of international matches to pick up team tactics. Seek scholarships and exposure camps — scouts often spot players in regional tournaments or at university showcases.
South Sudan's basketball future looks bright because the base is growing. Schools are adding courts, local coaches return from abroad, and the diaspora fuels talent and funding. Expect the national team to keep pushing at AfroBasket and in qualifying windows. If you're a fan, now is a great time to get involved — follow the team, support youth basketball, help build the next generation of players.
Looking for live venues? Main indoor courts are in Juba and Malakal; local tournaments often run during dry season, and national team games move to larger arenas when available. Planning to travel for a game? Check visa rules, bring cash for local vendors, and arrive early — small venues fill fast. Dress casual; expect loud, passionate crowds and cheer.
Kevin Durant and Royal Ivey's Heated Exchange: Behind the Scenes at the 2024 Paris Olympics
During a pivotal match at the 2024 Paris Olympics, an intense verbal exchange occurred between Kevin Durant of Team USA and Royal Ivey, coach of South Sudan. The spirited confrontation highlighted both competitive spirit and mutual respect, as South Sudan fought hard but ultimately fell to Team USA. Despite Kevin Durant’s impactful performance, South Sudan still has a chance to advance.