Bright Stars make history with first World Cup win

Adelaide 36ers swingman Sunday Dech was a part of history as the South Sudanese basketball team has taken home a slice of history, becoming its nation's first team to earn a victory at a major World Cup.

The Bright Stars defeated China by 20 points in a crucial group clash which has kept South Sudan’s chances of going to the medal rounds alive.

South Sudan got on top from the opening tip and led for the entirety of the match, running away in the second half to claim the 89-69 success.

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Reigning NBA G-League MVP Carlik Jones once again led the way for South Sudan and finished as the side’s top scorer with 21 points and 11 assists, while Dech added three points coming off the bench.

Monday’s victory comes just two days after South Sudan’s heartbreaking 101-96 overtime loss to Puerto Rico, which would have guaranteed them a spot in the next stage of the tournament.

The Bright Stars now face a must win game against Serbia in their final group clash on Wednesday, or hope China defeat Puerto Rico to stay in medal contention.

Newly-signed big man Tohi Smith-Milner's New Zealand also kept their medal rounds chances alive with a 95-87 overtime win against Jordan.

The Tall Blacks now have to defeat Greece in their final match of the group stage to advance to the next round of matches.