By Adia Jildo
Fans gather at Kyonyokonyo market Saturday morning to support the Bright Stars as they battle for championship in the FIBA World Cup against Puerto Rico.
The team lost to Puerto Rico in its last 30 second 96 to 101.
Fans however, have expressed their delight with the performance of Bright Stars saying the team gave their best in the game.
The performance according to many has raised the country’s flag and name to another level.
John Khamis a 16-year-old first time spectator for a basketball game said the teams participation itself is an achievement to the country citing the fact that the country qualified on its first attempt.
“Who expected that South Sudan could reach this far? I am proud of the team no matter what the results will be,” he said.
The game, which brought all to a stand still including transport systems, pedestrians, and venders, has caught the world’s attention and known sports lovers.
Benjamin Atak Garang said the players have shown the impossibility and the other side of South Sudan that have not been seen and portrayed by the world.
“This game means a lot to us South Sudanese,” said as he raised a voice after the team balance 81 with Puerto Rico.
“We are here since morning to see and support the team. They are us and we are them, any match they play, they represent us as nation and we shall stand with them throughout,” he said excitedly.
Benjamin added that through the first match the team would learn from their mistakes, which would help them in future.
Oras Ali also a spectator went to the market where he would access a TV screen where many people were gather in support from 6 AM to support the team.
He said, “We are happy that our flag is being raised in another country.”
“I am happy that my country is participating, It is because of these youth that our country is known. This country is ours and it’s our responsibility to light its name,” he said. “Come ran come sun, we should stand here and support. We can stand under this sun from morning to the sunset to support our country men and we are happy doing it.”
Francis a spectator in Konyo Konyo said the game could be a game changer for the country history as it acted as a uniting factor.
“As you can see here, there are different people here even those who have never watched a match because they heard that South Sudan is playing today at the World cup,” he said.
“Maybe this match can bring peace. We need to be happy and together, this match could bring peace for us. I wish for us to win it. We are all South Sudanese, we need peace, we need to be together, God bless South Sudan,” he added
