South Sudan Defeat Guinea 81–71 in FIBA World Cup Qualifiers

South Sudan’s Bright Stars secured an important 81–71 victory over Guinea on Thursday in the second round of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers in Radès, Tunisia. ([FIBA Basketball][1]) South Sudan started strongly, taking a 25–15 lead in the first quarter before extending their advantage to 53–29 at halftime. Their fast-paced offense, outside shooting and aggressive defense gave Guinea serious problems during the opening half. ([FIBA Basketball][1]) Guinea responded strongly after halftime and turned what looked like a comfortable South Sudan victory into a much tighter contest. After trailing by as many as 27 points, Guinea fought back and reduced the deficit to just four points in the fourth quarter. ([FIBA Basketball][1]) But the Bright Stars held their nerve when it mattered most. Carlik Jones led South Sudan with 18 points and seven assists, helping his team regain control late in the game and close out the 81–71 victory. ([FIBA Basketball][2]) The result improves South Sudan’s qualifying record to 5–2, strengthening the Bright Stars’ campaign for another appearance at the FIBA Basketball World Cup. ([FIBA Basketball][1]) For South Sudan, the victory is another encouraging result for a national basketball program that continues to establish itself as one of Africa’s leading teams.