Makoi closes in on World Cup dream with South Sudan

Sydney Kings development player Jackson Makoi will once again have the honour of representing South Sudan on the international stage this month, as part of the FIBA 2023 World Cup African qualifiers.

"Anytime I get to wear this South Sudan jersey, it's an absolute honour," Makoi said.

"I know how much it makes everyone else happy, especially my family - because my generation, who grew up on the western side of the world, didn't experience the hardships our parents did, which has put me in this position today."

The 22-year-old and his team are 6-0 thus far in the tournament and will look to keep that perfect record intact against Senegal (Friday, August 26), Congo DR (Saturday, August 27) and Egypt (Sunday, August 28) - with all matches played at the Monastir, Salle Mohamed Mzali.

"I'm particularly excited to take on Senegal, as they have been one of the benchmark teams in Africa for years - I always love testing myself against the best," said Makoi, who last represented his country in February against Senegal.

"Being 6-0 thus far, we know they're coming for us and anything but our best won't be good enough.

"Then against the Congo and Egypt, it is important we continue to build on what we've done in this qualifying tournament against two extremely passionate and competitive teams.

"Honestly, all the teams are strong in this competition and it will likely come down to who executes on the day - which as a point guard, is crucial in terms of my contribution to the team and being an extension of the coach out on the court."

With six games remaining in qualifying, South Sudan only require three wins to cement their spot at the 2023 FIBA world championships - held across the Philippines, Japan and Indonesia.

"Just the thought of playing at a World Cup makes me nervous - it would be a dream come true to help my country achieve that goal," the Daytona State College alum said.

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The Egyptian-born guard, who penned a deal with Chase Buford's side in June, will aim to use these fixtures as a springboard into his maiden NBL season.

"I'm loving it here at the Kings - each and every day I'm learning so much, that I can make me a better player," said Makoi, who joined from Vrijednosnice Osijek in the off-season.

"It's still only early days but everyone is putting in work, in an environment I've never experienced before in my career - the detail everyone goes into here is fantastic and I'm sure it's going to translate to success on the court for us.

"It's only just the start and I can't wait to see what my first year with the Kings entails."

Fellow King Dejan Vasiljevic (Australia) will also be taking part in the 2023 FIBA World Cup qualifiers this month.