South Sudan’s women’s team, the Bright Starlets, made one of the most impressive debuts in AfroBasket history. After receiving a wildcard entry into the 2025 Women’s AfroBasket in Abidjan, they defeated Egypt in the Round of 16 on July 30 to move on to the quarterfinals.
In the semifinals, they narrowly defeated regional rivals and Zone V champions, Uganda’s Gazelles, in an exciting win, securing a 69-68 victory with clutch free throws by Rose Macuei Akon in the final seconds. Delicia Washington led the effort (17 points, six assists, three rebounds), supported by Maria Gakdeng (12 points, 13 rebounds) and Rose (12 points). South Sudan earned their spot in the semifinals and also qualified for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifiers.
Why This Victory Matters
1. Historic Milestone: Debutants in the Final Four
South Sudan has become the first debutantes ever to reach the AfroBasket Women’s semifinals in their maiden tournament appearance, a feat that underlines their rapid rise since FIBA affiliation in 2013.
2. More Than a Win
The Bright Starlets overcame two opening losses to powerhouse teams, Mali and Cameroon, before rallying past Egypt and Uganda. They displayed resilience, confidence, and fearlessness to finish and to shock not once, but twice, the basketball fraternity on the continent by beating two power teams.
3. A Platform for Individual Excellence
Maria Gakdeng’s historic performance against Egypt (19 points, 24 rebounds, a double-double) broke a decade‑long AfroBasket rebounding record.
4. Global Aspirations Awakening
By reaching the semifinals, South Sudan clinched a berth in the 2026 Women’s World Cup qualifying tournament. This opens doors to the global stage and long-term recognition of South Sudanese women’s basketball.
As one of the players, Rose Macuei, stated during the press conference, “We came in as underdogs… we had nothing to lose… we trusted and played for each other. Here we are qualified for the World Cup qualifiers. Dreams really do come true!” Indeed, the Starlets were not only debutants at this level but also underdogs.
What Lies Ahead: Building on a Breakout Run
With a place in the final four, South Sudan now faces African Mali, a basketball giant on the continent. While the matchup promises to be tough, the Bright Starlets have already proved that they can compete with composed poise.
The buzz of AfroBasket success is definitely building on the growth pedestal South Sudan basketball has already been enjoying. There is already increased investment in youth programs, expanded grassroots training, and a bold ambition to establish South Sudan as a power in African basketball, both men’s and women’s.
