In a dramatic showcase game at the O2 Arena on Saturday night, Team USA narrowly escaped an historic upset with a 101-100 victory over South Sudan, thanks to a driving layup by LeBron James in the final seconds. The moment, which will be remembered by the raucous crowd for years to come, highlighted the inspiring journey of South Sudan’s basketball team, known as the Bright Stars, as they prepare for their first Olympic appearance in Paris.
The game was a showcase of resilience and talent from the young nation of South Sudan. Former Charlotte Hornets forward JT Thor had put South Sudan ahead with a clutch 3-pointer with just 20 seconds remaining. Despite three attempts in the final seconds, South Sudan couldn’t convert, and LeBron James secured the victory for Team USA with a layup with eight seconds left.
LeBron James was instrumental in turning the tide for Team USA, scoring 25 points and leading a 23-5 run from late in the third quarter to early in the fourth. His aggressive play, including a power dunk that led to a three-point play and a crucial 3-pointer, was pivotal in denying South Sudan’s upset bid.
James, who was visibly anxious when head coach Steve Kerr chose not to start him or the other starters in the third quarter, took over the game when the U.S. was in serious trouble. His performance highlighted his determination not to be on the losing side of this potential underdog story, which he might even consider buying the movie rights to in the future.
Despite the victory, Team USA faced significant challenges throughout the game. The Bright Stars built a lead as large as 16 points, taking advantage of shaky U.S. defense and hot shooting, with South Sudan hitting 57% of their shots and a wave of 3-pointers in the first half. Steve Kerr’s decision to change the lineup aimed to alter the defensive tone, but it was the collective effort of stars like Steph Curry and Anthony Davis that eventually brought Team USA back into the game.
Curry made two clutch 3-pointers, helping to break a stretch where Team USA missed 14 of 15 3-pointers, while Davis continued his strong summer performance with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Their contributions, along with James’ leadership, allowed Team USA to improve to 4-0 in exhibition games.
South Sudan’s performance was a testament to their tremendous collective athleticism and fearlessness. The Bright Stars, many of whom grew up in North America or Australia as descendants of refugees, demonstrated their capability against an American team they consider peers. Point guard Carlik Jones, the 2022-23 G League Player of the Year, recorded a triple-double with 15 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. Although he missed a crucial jumper in the final seconds, his performance, along with that of Marial Shayok, showcased the potential of this team.
Shayok, who scored 24 points and hit 6 of 12 3-pointers, was often the best player on the floor. His journey from being a second-round pick by the Philadelphia 76ers to playing in Turkey and China illustrates the resilience and talent present in this South Sudanese squad.
As South Sudan prepares for their Olympic debut in Paris, their near-upset against Team USA will be a source of inspiration and pride. This game not only highlighted their skill and determination but also hinted at the bright future ahead for these players, many of whom may soon be receiving calls from NBA teams.
In the end, while LeBron James’ heroics saved Team USA from an upset, the true story of the night was the remarkable rise of the South Sudanese basketball team—a story that may well be told on the big screen someday.
