Deng Acuoth returns to Knox Raiders for 2026 NBL1 South season

The Knox Raiders have announced the signing of Deng Acuoth for the 2026 NBL1 South season.

Returning to Knox after previously helping lead the Raiders to the 2023 NBL1 South Championship, Acuoth brings extensive experience across the NBL, NBL1 South, the Basketball Africa League and international basketball.

Standing at 216cm (7’1), the Australian-South Sudanese center has spent time with the Sydney Kings, South East Melbourne Phoenix and Adelaide 36ers throughout his professional career, while also competing internationally across Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa.

Acuoth also featured in the Basketball Africa League with US Monastir following their championship-winning campaign, adding to an already extensive professional resume.

He is no stranger to NBL1 South success, having previously claimed the league’s Defensive Player of the Year award in 2019 before playing an important role in Knox’s 2023 championship-winning campaign.

The last time Acuoth competed in NBL1 South came with the Keilor Thunder during the 2024 season, where he averaged 12.5 points, 11.3 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game across 10 appearances.

Known for his rim protection, rebounding and defensive versatility, Acuoth adds significant size and high-level experience to the Raiders frontcourt heading into the second half of the 2026 season.

Away from club basketball, Acuoth has also represented the South Sudan men's national basketball team on the international stage, including during the nation’s historic rise to qualification for its first-ever FIBA World Cup.

Don't miss a single minute of NBL1 South action this season. You can watch every game LIVE & FREE via the NBL1 App and NBL1.com.au, with Games of the Week available via Kayo Freebies.