By MARK REY MONTEJO

Chicago Bulls guard Carlik Jones was thrilled and proud of South Sudan’s accomplishments so far despite being a debutant in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

With a proper mindset heading into basketball's biggest stage, Jones already knew that the Sudanese squad could rise among the ranks of the top teams in the world.

“I think we met our expectations, we wanted to come in, we wanted to win [and] to qualify, we did that,” Jones said 

“Just be able to compete every night, to put South Sudan back on the map,” he added.

South Sudan sealed its ticket in the 2024 Paris Olympics after becoming the best-placed African team. 

Jones made another stellar performance in their victory against Angola, tallying 26 points, seven rebounds and 15 assists in South Sudan's 101-78 win.

The 6-foot floor general also mentioned that South Sudan’s triumph serves as an inspiration as his country continues to suffer from a civil war.

“It’s big time for the country, big time for the fans and big time for the team, It’s a huge blessing and I’m glad to be part of it,” Jones continued.