Monday

Group B

South Sudan 89-69 China

South Sudan showed they belong on the global basketball stage as the sport's youngest country recorded their first victory at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 after defeating China 89-69 to stay alive in the race for the Second Round.

Founded as a country in 2011 and accepted into FIBA in 2013, the World Cup debutants bounced back from a disappointing opening loss to Puerto Rico for a 1-1 mark in Group B.

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South Sudan built on a 39-28 lead in the second quarter and watched China get close again.

The African representatives finished the third quarter strong with a 10-4 surge to lead 63-53 after 30 minutes.

China were not able to close within eight points in the final period and South Sudan finished the deal as opposed to losing a late one to Puerto Rico.

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South Sudan had five players score in double figures and was topped by Carlik Jones with 21 points while also picking up 5 assists, 2 rebounds and 1 steal.

They committed only 4 turnovers while connecting 15-of-30 three-pointers (50 percent).

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After Monday’s victory, they still face a stiff challenge to reach the Second Round with European powerhouse Serbia waiting in their wings on Wednesday August 30 their final group game. But the Africans can be happy about still being alive in the fight.

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China also have an uphill task to overcome Puerto Rico in the final group game later on Wednesday.

The Asians would be eliminated from contention if Serbia lose to Puerto Rico later on Monday.