World Cup Trophy historic visit to South Sudan

For the first time in East Africa’s history, the FIBA World Cup Trophy landed in the heart of South Sudan.

Following the Bright Stars' qualification in February, South Sudan achieved yet another first by receiving the World Cup Trophy in the nation’s capital late May 2023.

South Sudan Basketball Federation, Minister of Youth & Sports, and Ambassadors / Representatives of nations qualified for FIBA 2023 - China, Egypt, and Canada - received the trophy at Juba international Airport on May, 28 in a light and supportive ceremony.

On its day one tour and official visits, the trophy was presented to the President of the Republic where H.E Salva Kiir Mayardit expressed his joy and gratitude for the National Team’s great achievements.

During the same afternoon, the trophy was received with ululations and applause by the house of the people at the National Legislative Assembly.

Youth, sports communities, and the general public viewed and celebrated the WC Trophy at the Nimra Talata Basketball Stadium on its second and final day of tour in Juba.

Before concluding its visit, the trophy serving as a memento of the Bright Stars’ journey visited the River Nile and John Garang Mausoleum - significant South Sudan and Juba landmarks.

Everywhere the World Cup Trophy goes, it now has a piece of South Sudan with it.