By Tereza Jeremiah Chuei
The Governor of Central Equatoria State (CES) Emmanuel Adil Anthony had yesterday congratulated the National Basket Ball Team for winning and qualifying for the 2023 FIBA Basketball world Cup.
Speaking during the graduation of the first batch of the Unified Forces, Adil said “Special Note, I would like to congratulate our National Basketball team for the wonderful and tremendous performances that they have done.”
However, after SSBF wining against Egypt qualifying for the 2023 FIBA basketball World cup, the citizens both on social Media and around the world joined in by congratulating and praising the team for the job well done.
Among was Promota Kay Two who wrote on his Facebook Page that “Congratulation to our National Basketball Team and South Sudan all over the world and not forgetting the leadership of Mr. Luol Ajou Deng”.
He further added that “may you continue to raise the flag of our Country”.
South Sudan Basketball Federation (SSBF) also known for its nickname as Bright Stars had unbeaten record in the first round (6-0), beating the depending Africa Champions Tunisia Twice.
The Afro-Basket 2021 made its entrance at major tournament and reached the round 16 after defeating Uganda and Cameroon in Preliminary round, while in the round of 16, the Team beat Kenya.
Meanwhile, the team has now qualified for the 2023 FIBA basketball World Cup; this was after winning against Egypt by Scoring 85-65 against Egypt.
The team started its first match in 2011 against Uganda and its mission is to spread hope, Peace and Pride through basketball.
The team is comprised of 8players with its Head Coach as Royal Ivey, and founded by Luol Deng.
The SSBF was established in May 2011 and became a Member of FIBA in December 2013.