A night of near history in London

On Saturday in London, South Sudan nearly delivered what would have been one of the greatest upsets in international basketball history. Facing the star-studded U.S. Olympic team in a pre-Olympics warm-up game, South Sudan led by as many as 16 points and held a late advantage. It took LeBron James scoring in the final eight seconds for the U.S. to survive, escaping with a narrow 101-100 win.

The performance electrified fans, validated South Sudan’s rapid rise in global basketball, and proved that the young nation, only a member of FIBA since 2013, belongs on the sport’s biggest stage. But instead of universal praise, the team found itself at the center of controversy sparked by remarks from two former NBA players—Paul Pierce and Gilbert Arenas.

Pierce apologizes, Arenas doubles down
In the days surrounding the game, Paul Pierce was accused of making derogatory and racially charged comments about South Sudan’s players. Pierce later admitted his words reflected “a lack of adequate research” and issued a public apology. He acknowledged the team’s accomplishments and expressed respect once he better understood their story.

But Gilbert Arenas’ comments struck a far harsher tone. Speaking after the match, Arenas mocked the South Sudanese team, reducing their effort to little more than Africans nearly embarrassing the United States. His remarks quickly circulated online, sparking outrage across the basketball community.

Luol Deng responds with disappointment and pride
Luol Deng, president of the South Sudan Basketball Federation and himself a former NBA All-Star, condemned the remarks in strong but measured terms.

“I’m not upset or angry at these ignorant remarks made by my former colleagues; I was more disappointed to see them coming from two individuals I’ve always respected,” Deng said.

On Pierce’s apology, Deng chose to highlight growth: “Paul Pierce showed misinformation and a lack of research. However, he used it as a teachable moment to shed positivity once he was informed. Thank you to Paul Pierce for apologising.”

When it came to Arenas, Deng did not hold back. “As for Gilbert’s comments, they were certainly more disrespectful and cruel. Personally, I don’t care much. I would never trade places with anyone; being African is special.”

A nation rising on the court

The sting of Arenas’ words contrasts sharply with the pride South Sudan feels about its national team. In just over a decade, the country has gone from basketball obscurity to one of the most inspiring stories in the sport. Qualifying for the Paris Olympics was itself a landmark achievement, marking the first time South Sudan will compete on that stage.

The near-upset of the United States further showcased the team’s resilience and potential. Despite limited resources and infrastructure, South Sudanese players—many of whom grew up as refugees or in challenging circumstances—have used basketball as a vehicle for hope and representation. Their competitive showing against the U.S. was not just a moral victory; it was proof that they can go toe-to-toe with the best.

Why Arenas’ comments sting
For a country whose athletes embody perseverance and progress, being reduced to caricatures by a former NBA player struck a nerve. Arenas’ words, described by Deng as “disrespectful and cruel,” dismissed the skill and effort of players who nearly toppled basketball’s most decorated national program.

Critics argue that such remarks reflect deeper issues in how African basketball is perceived globally. Despite producing NBA stars and increasingly competing on the world stage, African nations are often trivialized or dismissed, even in the face of extraordinary progress.

Support grows for South Sudan
In contrast to the controversy, many fans and analysts praised South Sudan’s performance. Social media lit up with admiration for the team’s discipline, shooting, and defensive intensity. Commentators noted that South Sudan’s style of play reflects not just raw talent but excellent coaching and preparation.

LeBron James himself, who prevented the upset, acknowledged the challenge. “They came to play,” he said afterward. “That’s a tough, talented team. They made us fight for everything.”

Such validation from the game’s biggest star reinforces what Deng and his federation have long preached: South Sudan is no longer a basketball newcomer—it’s a contender.

Looking forward to Paris
The controversy surrounding Arenas’ comments may linger, but South Sudan’s focus remains on the Olympics. With momentum from their near-win against the U.S., the team enters Paris confident, motivated, and eager to prove that their success is no fluke.

For Deng, the bigger picture outweighs the insults. His message is one of pride, identity, and resilience. “Being African is special,” he said, framing the controversy not as a setback but as a reminder of what his team represents.

As the basketball world turns toward Paris, one thing is clear: South Sudan has already won something greater than a warm-up game. They have captured global respect, elevated their country’s profile, and forced the world to reckon with a new power in the sport. And no amount of “disrespectful and cruel” commentary can erase that achievement.