Ater Majok, originally from Sudan, reflects on his journey as a refugee and how basketball became his purpose in life after being introduced to the sport in Australia. Majok, a former center for the Los Angeles Lakers, returned to Africa to repay the sport that had offered him a new path.
At the age of 35, Majok left his war-torn homeland with his family during Sudan’s second civil war in 1992. After spending time in a refugee camp in Egypt, they settled in Australia for four years. However, it was at the age of 16, when Majok moved to the United States, that his life took a transformative turn.
“Basketball saved my life and gave me a sense of purpose,” Majok expressed to Sport News Center Africa. “Growing up as a refugee in a new country presents challenges, and many children end up on the streets. I’ve witnessed friends succumbing to prison, illegal activities, and even death. If it weren’t for basketball, I might have easily followed that same destructive path.”
Majok recollects his dislike for basketball during his time in Egypt, where soccer and volleyball dominated the sports scene. It was not until he migrated to Sydney, Australia, in 2000 that his perspective changed. Introduced to basketball by a family member, Majok’s cousin arrived at his house with a coach, stating, “You’re going to play basketball. You’re 6’8″ tall, so forget about soccer.”
However, it was after Majok’s move to the United States in 2004 that basketball truly began to shape his life. “As I continued to play, I developed a love for the sport. It wasn’t until I participated in tournaments in the US that I truly fell in love with basketball. I saw the opportunities it could offer me. It opened doors to education and a better future,” Majok explained.
Majok received a college basketball scholarship from Connecticut, launching his professional career in 2010. Although he joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 2011 as the 58th pick, he did not see playing time during his initial stint with the NBA team. However, in 2014, he made four appearances after re-signing with the Lakers.
In 2016, Majok decided to represent Lebanon internationally, as South Sudan did not have a national team at the time, and Australia’s team was highly competitive. Seeking more exposure and aiming to represent Africans in the Middle East, Majok made this strategic choice.
When the Basketball Africa League (BAL) finally commenced, Majok seized the opportunity to return to the African continent. Joining Tunisian side US Monastir, he contributed to their second-place finish in the inaugural season and ultimately won the championship in 2022. In the most recent season, he competed with his current team, Petro de Luanda, securing a fourth-place finish.
The BAL has provided Majok with a chance to give back to the sport in various ways. During the Nile conference leg of the BAL, he facilitated access to games for the South Sudanese community in Egypt, ensuring they could witness the matches. Recognizing the lack of resources for aspiring players on the continent, Majok mentioned, “Many players here lack proper coaching, uniforms, shoes, and equipment. Kids approach me, asking for my shoes. So, after a game, I wear a pair of shoes and give them to a child who wears the same size. Additionally, providing access to kids who can come and watch the games can change someone’s life.”
The impact of the BAL, created by the NBA and FIBA, on African basketball is already evident. Majok shared how players in the United States regard the league highly, with some expressing interest in joining. He believes that as the BAL continues to grow, it will elevate the skills of African players and subsequently impact the national teams, further strengthening Africa’s presence in international competitions.
Although Majok represents Lebanon internationally, he closely follows the progress of his home nation, South Sudan, in basketball. South Sudan qualified for the FIBA World Cup for the first time in their history this year. Majok believes that this achievement goes beyond sports and serves as a unifying force for the people of Africa’s youngest nation, bridging gaps created by trauma and political issues.
In summary, Ater Majok’s basketball journey from being a Sudanese refugee to an accomplished professional player has given him a profound appreciation for the sport. Recognizing how basketball transformed his life, Majok is dedicated to giving back and providing opportunities to aspiring players in Africa, believing in the power of the sport to change lives and unite communities.
5 comments
Wow, this story about Ater Majok is so inspiring! It’s amazing how basketball gave him a new path in life. Being a refugee and going through war is tough, but he found purpose through the sport. Respect!
Majok’s journey from Sudan to Australia to the US is mind-blowing. B-ball really changed his life, man. It’s crazy to think how easily he could’ve gone down the wrong path without it. Props to him for giving back and helping those in need.
Ater Majok, a former Lakers center, is proof that basketball knows no boundaries. From being a refugee to playing in the NBA, his story is beyond words. It’s cool to see him using his platform to make a difference and support young players. Keep ballin’, Majok!
The Basketball Africa League is making waves! Majok’s experience in the BAL is shining a light on African basketball and elevating the game. It’s awesome to see African players getting the recognition they deserve. Can’t wait to see how the league grows and impacts national teams.
As a fellow Sudanese, this story hits close to home. Majok’s journey and his dedication to representing South Sudan is inspiring. Basketball has the power to unite a nation, and Majok is living proof of that. The World Cup qualification is a monumental achievement. Sudanese pride all the way!