The British basketball team were thrilled last year when Luol agreed to be on the team even though it means he will play all Summer which is when he usually rests between seasons. His experience and skill will be a huge help to the team in their preparations for the London Olympics in 2012.

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My Friend Jamal - Luol Deng, basketball player

Luol Deng was born on April 16, 1985 in Wau, Sudan. When he lived in Sudan the civil war broke out and when Luol Deng was 9 he was forced to move to Egypt to escape the war. He was separated from his parents and lived with his brothers and sisters.Then Luol’s parents were given permissing to come to England and all the fmaily moved there together. At first he found it hard to make friends. Luol was taught Basketball by his elder brother Deng Deng, which helped Luol to fit in. Luol kept playing and eventually joined the England under 15s and eventually began his professional career at the Brixton Topcats.

Eventually Luol moved to America where he played in high school and for Duke University. he was a very impressive player and as soon as he left university Luol was signed by Chicago.

On May 3 2007 Luol Deng won the NBA sportsmanship award, which is voted for by the other players in the NBA. The award honors the player who shows ethical behavior, fair play and integrity on the court. When he won, Luol Deng said “I can win awards on the basketball court and it would mean a lot to me. But this award is on and off the court. It's something for me to give back to my parents. They will appreciate I'm being recognized for who I am.”

Deng’s sister, Arek, and his brother
Ajou are also both talented basketball
players and play on European teams.