South Sudanese Duke Men’s Basketball Player Faces Visa Issues Ahead of NCAA Tournament
Durham, NC – A rising star on the Duke University Men’s Basketball team, originally from South Sudan, is facing visa-related issues that may jeopardize his participation in the upcoming NCAA tournament. The player, whose name has not been officially disclosed due to privacy concerns, has reportedly encountered delays in the renewal of his student visa, a situation that has sparked concern among teammates, coaches, and fans.
According to sources close to the program, the player traveled overseas during the winter break to visit family, but upon returning, ran into unexpected administrative hurdles in the visa re-entry process. While the university’s legal and international student services teams are working closely with federal authorities to resolve the issue, time is running short with the tournament just around the corner.
“This young man is a key part of our team, both on and off the court,” said Duke head coach Jon Scheyer. “We are doing everything we can to support him and ensure he is able to continue pursuing both his education and basketball career here.”
The athlete has been a standout this season, earning praise for his athleticism, shot-blocking ability, and leadership. His absence from the lineup would be a significant blow to Duke’s chances in the NCAA tournament, where they are expected to be a top contender.
Fans have taken to social media with messages of support and calls for swift action from immigration authorities. Advocates for international student-athletes are also highlighting this case as part of a broader conversation about the challenges many face when navigating U.S. visa policies.
As of now, the player remains in limbo, hoping for a resolution that will allow him to rejoin his teammates and represent Duke on the national stage.
