New Magnolia import Nuni Omot was the team captain for South Sudan during the 2023 FIBA World Cup in the Philippines, where they won a slot to the 2024 Olympics.
Playing on the FIBA World Cup floor at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium brought back good memories for Magnolia import Nuni Omot.
Nearly three years ago, Omot and South Sudan turned heads and made history in the FIBA World Cup, which was co-hosted by the Philippines.
During their stint here, South Sudan made history by booking a slot in the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
“The World Cup was a great experience. It was my first World Cup ever. It was my country’s first World Cup also so it did bring back a lot of memories,” said Omot, who found himself back to Manila with Magnolia for the PBA 50 Commissioner’s Cup.
“What we did as a country was big. Being a captain of the national team is a big accomplishment for me,” Omot added, reflecting on a meaningful time for his career.
“I wanna be able to have an impact not only on my people. I wanna have an impact on people elsewhere. We did have a Cinderalla story. My story wasn’t like no one else’s.”
Returning to the Philippines, Omot wants to have another strong run by helping the Hotshots to a long-awaited PBA championship.
Although his PBA debut ended in a 98-101 loss to Phoenix, Omot is eager to steer Magnolia to the right direction.
“I obviously want a championship. That’s the goal. Everywhere I play i wanna win,” said Omot, who finished with 27 points, six rebounds, three assists, and a steal.
“That’s why I was frustrated today because I know I wasn’t at my best. Once I get my legs, get adjusted to everything, it’s gonna be a lot better.”
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Like most sportswriters, Jan Ballesteros once dreamed of becoming a professional hooper. But he learned the hard way that it’s not for everyone.
He continues to be involved in the sport he loves, but this time as a member of the PBA Press Corps. Aside from primarily covering the PBA, he is also assigned to cover Gilas Pilipinas.