The Bright Stars, 33rd in the world rankings, opened their Group C campaign with a 90-79 win over their higher-ranked opponents on Sunday.

The result has been a huge source of pride for the world’s newest nation – on what was the team’s first appearance on the Olympic stage.

“It brings us together,” said the 27-year-old after the match.

“No matter what tribe you’re from or what you’re facing – adversity, the war, or whatever.

“It’s like every single tribe, every single town has been united.”

Carlik Jones led South Sudan’s scoring stats with 19 points, with Kuol adding 12 of his own along with three assists and three rebounds.

“It’s a massive win for us at our first ever Olympics,” he said.