Former NBA Player Luol Deng Hailed for New Role in South Sudan Basketball Evolution

(Photo : Gareth Fuller - Pool/Getty Images) LONDON, ENGLAND - Luol Deng with his OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) after an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace

Luol Deng is best known for his best basketball years in the NBA. However, the 38-year-old South Sudanese-British cager also had his share on the world stage, suiting up for Great Britain in the 2012 Olympics and a couple of FIBA EuroBaskets.

Deng is a two-time All-Star and has racked in recognition in the NBA in the 15 years he was actively playing.

After Sudan gained independence on July 9, 2011, Deng became involved and would eventually be elected SSBF president in November 2019.

Incidentally, the 7th round pick of the 2004 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns also serves as one of the assistant coaches for the South Sudan team currently in Manila for the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

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One of the biggest accomplishments of the quintet was that huge win over China, 89-69, the country's first-ever win on the global stage.

"It means everything. I know it's basketball but it's a sport that we love and want to grow. We are a new country and we have been through a lot, but this World Cup is a place where we are there with everyone else and we can call it our own and celebrate it," Deng stated.

However, in the eyes of the South Sudan coaching thrust, Deng has done more than just push the sport of basketball.

"He is changing the trajectory of his country. He's using basketball to spread hope. It's humbling to be part of this rise and see what is happening back in South Sudan with the success of our team," assistant coach Joe Mantegna pointed out.

South Sudan is set to face Serbia in its next assignment on Wednesday, August 30. A win would push them to the second round, although there is no doubt that greater things are ahead for the South Sudan national quintet.

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