Though South Sudan has never competed in the Olympics in men’s basketball and its roster lacks a current NBA player, the African nation nearly turned in one of the biggest upsets in international basketball history Saturday against the United States.

With the Paris Olympics just days away, the Americans needed a late basket from LeBron James to hold off South Sudan, 101-100, during an exhibition at London’s O2 arena. The Americans, who are the odds-on favorites to win their fifth straight Olympic gold, were favored by 43½ points.

With the Paris Olympics just days away, the Americans needed a late basket from LeBron James to hold off South Sudan, 101-100{ai:summary}<p>South Sudan, a newcomer to the Olympic stage and without any NBA talent, nearly toppled the mighty United States in a thrilling basketball exhibition. The Americans needed a clutch shot from LeBron James to escape with a narrow 101-100 win.</p><p>As they head to Paris, the favored U.S. squad found itself rattled, proving that sometimes, it's the underdogs that are destined to leave a mark. #sports</p>

U.S. basketball barely avoids shocking upset against South Sudan

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