Luol Deng, the President of the South Sudan Basketball Federation has applauded President Salva Kiir for publicly commending the men’s national basketball team for its recent triumphs at the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers.
On Saturday, South Sudan beat the reigning African champions Tunisia for the second time in the ongoing FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers. A day earlier, it thrashed the host Rwanda.
On Monday, President Salva Kiir issued a congratulatory message to the team “for a string of strong performances” during the two games.
“Your performances have uplifted the spirit of the South Sudanese…keep on working hard… and [I] look forward to receiving you in Juba to celebrate your success together,” the statement partially reads.
In response, Luol Deng told the President; “your support and gracious recognition is humbly received.”
The former NBA star who now manages the national basketball federation also expressed his gratitude to South Sudanese who attended the game in person and the unity displayed across the world in their support for the team.
‘The outpouring of love and support from our people back home and in our diaspora around the world has been profoundly inspiring. Our team has shown the world what we as a people are capable of when coming together,” the statement reads.
Luol further assured President Kiir of the team’s availability in Juba after their next game.
“We welcome His Excellency’s invitation, as we plan to come home to South Sudan after our next tournament window in August. We look forward to seeing you and the proud citizens of South Sudan in August.”
