Why is Wenyen Gabriel playing for South Sudan? Exploring Lakers star's ethnic origins

Wenyen Gabriel is best known for the two seasons he played for the LA Lakers, where he provided quality minutes as a backup big man to Anthony Davis. The last team he played for was the Grizzlies, where he signed a 10-day contract.

Gabriel ended up playing five games where he averaged 3.4 points and 5.0 rebounds. However, fans can expect to see him soon in the 2024 Paris Olympics. He will be representing South Sudan at the Summer Games.

The former Lakers center was born in Khartoum, Sudan. He also played a pivotal role in helping his country secure its first Olympics appearance during the team's 2023 FIBA World Cup run. He now gets to continue that journey alongside his teammates in Paris.

In last year's FIBA World Cup, Gabriel put up 6.7 points (47.1% shooting), 4.0 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game. With his inclusion in South Sudan's Olympic roster, the big man presents a lob threat opportunity for them to utilize along with another reliable center to protect the rim.

---

Wenyen Gabriel talked about securing an Olympic spot for South Sudan

After South Sudan secured a dominant 101-78 victory over Angola in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, Wenyen Gabriel was left emotional. He shared how fulfilling it was for the team to punch their ticket in the 2024 Paris Olympics. His comments were shared by Reuters' Aadi Nair.

"I'm speechless right now," Gabriel said. "To be quite honest, it's so surreal. We're going to the Olympics. This team is a beam of light. Like I keep on saying every postgame, we're bringing unity, camaraderie, love, and friendship to this country."

To secure an Olympic spot for your country is an incredible achievement for any athlete in their professional career. The hunger and the camaraderie were shown in full effect during South Sudan's inspired victory against Angola.

A daunting challenge now awaits them in the Olympics as they are part of the Group C bracket alongside countries such as the USA, Puerto Rico and Serbia.

Once the much-anticipated international competition commences, it is the perfect opportunity for Wenyen Gabriel and South Sudan to showcase what they're capable of.

---

Wenyen Gabriel will continue basketball career with Maccabi Tel Aviv

Patrick Beverley isn't the only one who will be playing overseas in Israel once a new season begins as Wenyen Gabriel is also in the same boat. Eurohoops reported that Gabriel has signed on to play for the Maccabi Tel Aviv in the coming 2024-25 season.

Upon the acquisition, the team's coach Oded Kattash talked about the value that Gabriel will be bringing to the team.

"Gabriel has NBA experience," Kattash said, "with diverse abilities and a lot of upside. He's a player who occupies the five position and can also play outside, knows how to finish near the rim, and has a defensive presence. He will help us and give us a lot of energy. I am sure that the connection to the audience will be quick and that the fans will enjoy him a lot."

Eurohoops also reported that his contract also features an option to extend the deal's duration for another season.