By Cesare Milanti / info@eurohoops.net
In today’s afternoon, Team USA announced it will face Germany in a rematch of the 2023 FIBA World Cup. The German national team, however, won’t be the only opponent in the Americans’ tour at the 02 Arena in London.
On the 22nd of July 2024, in fact, there will be the first showdown between Team USA and South Sudan, which is coming off an amazing campaign at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, ending the competition as the best African team and qualifying for the Olympic Games in Paris.
Luol Deng, president of the South Sudanese Basketball Federation, commented on the invitation with gratitude. “As a young and developing program, South Sudan Basketball recognizes and appreciates the significance of each stage of our progress. We accept this invitation as a welcome opportunity to compete at an elite level”, the former Chicago Bulls player commented.
Writing history in Manila, this occasion will mark another opportunity to showcase South Sudan’s value around the world on a global stage. “The USA Basketball Showcase will be a valued addition to our preparation for Paris, and I look forward to the experience of being in London, where my journey as an Olympian began 12 years ago”, he then added.
The CEO of USA Basketball Jim Tooley also talked about this friendly occasion. “USA Basketball is looking forward to the excitement of an Olympic year and the opportunity to take the USA Basketball Showcase to Las Vegas and London. Facing South Sudan and Germany will provide optimal training opportunities as we prepare to defend our gold medal in Paris, and we are thrilled to host them next summer”, he said.
🇸🇸 2024 Road to Paris includes an elite stop in LONDON to take on @usabasketball! 🏀 https://t.co/pzxIGs5DrV pic.twitter.com/eys9q5jaBs
— South Sudan Basketball (@SSBFed) December 12, 2023
PHOTO CREDIT: 2023 FIBA World Cup