Men's basketball: Three takeaways from South Sudan vs. Puerto Rico

On Sunday, South Sudan defeated Puerto Rico 90-79 in the opening game of Group C basketball.

Neither team is expected to make a deep run in the tournament. However, South Sudan looks like it has the potential to be a Cinderella team if things fall right for it.

Here are three takeaways from Sunday's opening game.

1. South Sudan can be dominant on the glass

South Sudan dominated on the glass. It won the offensive rebounding battle 18-10 and the defensive rebounding battle 37-27, giving it an overall advantage of 55-37 on the glass. As such, a 22-point disparity in second-chance points resulted, which certainly was a major factor in Sudan winning the contest.

The Sundanese team is exceptionally athletic, with great size and length. It plays a physically bruising brand of basketball and imposes its will on its opponents. There's a reason it gave Team USA a close call during an exhibition game in London earlier this month. If Sudan can continue stringing performances like this together, it could shock a lot of people over the next few weeks.

2. Carlik Jones could be a breakout star of the tournament

Jones struggled to find a home in the NBA, making just 12 appearances over a two-year tenure in the league, where he represented three different teams. However, FIBA basketball appears to suit his style of play. He led the line for Sudan with 19 points, seven rebounds and six assists while shooting 47% from the field.

Every international tournament has a standout player from outside of the NBA, and this year, Jones could stake his claim to be that guy.

3. Jose Alvarado got a chance to shine

Outside of owning the best nickname in the NBA, "Grand Theft Alvarado," the New Orleans Pelicans guard is known for his high-pressure defense. He also finished in the top six of voting for Sixth Man of the Year this past season. However, with Puerto Rico, Alvarado has his chance to shine as the lead option on both sides of the ball.

In 26 minutes of play, the Pelicans guard scored 26 points, grabbed two rebounds and dished out five assists while providing his usual brand of stifling defense. In truth, Puerto Rico lacks the high-end talent to be a major player at the Olympics. Nevertheless, Alvarado getting his chance to shine will be a fun sub-plot to the team's tenure in Paris.