More Than BASKETBALL - a story about resilience, family and puropose

I’m Manyïël Majak Ater Wugol — a professional basketball player, mentor, and proud South Sudanese‑Australian. Raised by a single mother alongside nine siblings, I learned early what sacrifice and leadership feel like. Basketball gave me a platform to represent my family, my community, and everyone chasing a bigger dream.

Born in Rumbek, South Sudan, I came to Australia with my family after time in the Kakuma refugee camp. I picked up basketball late at 16 and chased it relentlessly. At 17 I earned a scholarship to the U.S., grew as a player and a person, and returned home determined to make an impact on and off the court. Today I’m a 6’5” combo guard in the NBL1, founder of the Wugol Basketball Camp, and mentor through By Any Means Manny. My story is still being written.

Journey

  • Kakuma Refugee Camp → Perth — Family fled South Sudan civil war ; arrived in Australia as a child.

  • Picked Up Basketball at 16 — Late start, fast learner.

  • Scholarship to the U.S. at 17 — Independence, discipline, high-level competition.

  • Pro Debut (NBL1) — Turning purpose into performance.

  • Community Leader — Launching Wugol Basketball Camp; mentoring with By Any Means Manny.

Mission

My purpose goes deeper than basketball. Every game, every camp, every collaboration is about inspiring young athletes to chase their dreams, no matter their circumstances.

Family: Every step honors the people who raised me.

Community: Camps and clinics that make the next generation better.

Opportunity: Using my platform to open doors for others.

“The journey isn’t supposed to be easy. It’s supposed to shape you. Every obstacle, every doubt, every setback is part of the story that builds an unbreakable spirit. I don’t run from the hard — I embrace it, because that’s where transformation happens.”

Manyiel Wugol wearing a white uniform with red and blue accents, holding a Spalding basketball on the court, with a focused expression.

Career

Career
College
Southwestern Community College (2019-2021)
ASA College (2021)
Florida National University (2022)


Professional
Southwest Slammers NBL1 (2023-Present)