South Sudan Basketball Faces Olympic Paris 2024 Deadline Crunch
By Denilson Deneki
In a press conference held on Wednesday, Pastor Eunice Phillip Jada, Chief Delegation Mission of the South Sudan National Olympic Committee (SSNOC), issued a warning regarding the South Sudan Senior Men’s National Team Basketball’s potential exclusion from the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris 2024.
Jada expressed concerns over the lack of timely submission of players passports by the Basketball Federation, jeopardizing the team’s participation. With the deadline for document submission fast approaching on April 29, 2024, Jada emphasized the urgency of this matter to avoid disqualification.
“We have repeatedly attempted to engage with the leadership of the Basketball Federation to address these issues, but unfortunately, our efforts have been met with silence and non-responsiveness,” said Pastor Jada.
Furthermore, Jada highlighted the failure of the Federation to present their budget and submit the names of players on time, despite multiple reminders since January 2024. The SSNOC stressed the importance of timely action to secure the necessary approvals and accommodations for the athletes ahead of the Paris Olympics.
“We urge the public and the South Sudanese community to support us in this endeavor and ensure that the necessary documentation is provided promptly,” added Jada. “Failure to meet the deadline would not only impact the team’s chances at the Olympics but also tarnish the unity and joy the team brought to the nation during previous international competitions.”
South Sudan, known for its proud participation in global sporting events, is poised to make its third appearance at the Olympics, with both the Athletics Federation and Basketball Federation representing the country’s athletic prowess.
As the clock ticks towards the crucial deadline, all eyes are on the South Sudan Basketball Federation to swiftly act and secure the participation of its esteemed athletes in the prestigious Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
