The Bright Stars lost the game, but won the hearts of the South Sudanese people and many people around the world. One night in London, South Sudan was one point away from slaying the American basketball dragon.

USA basketball team stars included actual legends of the game like Lebron James and Stephen Curry, but South Sudan almost prevailed. Most of the basketball world cannot locate South Sudan on a map, but they won’t forget the Bright Stars after an incredibly exciting match. Even though we didn’t win, it reminded us why South Sudanese people voted by over 98% to become independent in July 2011. This moment gives us the feeling that we have finally arrived on the global stage.

After decades of disruption and civil strife there are sizable South Sudanese communities all over the world across East Africa, Europe, Australia, and North America. And just like those of us in South Sudan, they were all glued to their televisions as their heroes were one shot away from basketball history.

In the capital city of Juba, packed bars, restaurants, cafes, social clubs, and homes were preparing to celebrate, but even though they didn’t do it, the Bright Stars’ performance gave everyone a great sense of pride.