Luol Deng Links Women’s Basketball Team Success to Youth Empowerment

(ABIDJAN) – South Sudan Basketball Federation President Luol Deng has commended the national women’s basketball team for their historic qualification to the semi-finals of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket tournament, marking a first in South Sudan’s sporting history.

Speaking shortly after the team’s victory, Deng said that those who have long believed in the ability of South Sudanese women were not surprised by the achievement. He described the result as a reflection of what is possible when women are given the chance to succeed.

He noted that the women’s team, known as the Bright Starlets, is now the first national team from South Sudan to reach the semi-final stage in any international sport. Deng, who is also a former NBA player and founder of the federation, said this success aligns with his broader vision of using basketball as a tool to unlock the country’s potential.

In his statement, Deng said the achievement carries a strong message for young people in South Sudan.

He said the players are pioneers who are paving the way for future generations and serve as a source of hope for the country.

“This team stands as a beacon of hope and symbolises what is possible,” he said. “They are pioneers, paving the way for generations to come. They also serve as a powerful reminder to every young girl and boy in South Sudan that their dreams are valid.”

Deng added that the future of South Sudan will depend on how the country invests in its youth, particularly in empowering women.

“We must invest in our youth,” he said. “The future of South Sudan will be determined by how we empower our women.”

The team’s progress to the final four of the AfroBasket tournament has drawn praise from sports fans across the country. For many, the performance marks a turning point for South Sudanese women in sport and provides a moment of national pride.

The tournament features the continent’s best women’s basketball teams. South Sudan’s unexpected run to the semi-finals has become one of the highlights of the competition.