The London 2012 Olympian, 36, arrived in London as a refugee after escaping civil war in South Sudan with his family before carving out a lengthy and successful career in the NBA.
He started his basketball career with Brixton Topcats and represented England at junior level before heading to the US where he was drafted as the 2004 seventh pick by the Chicago Bulls after developing into a top talent with Blair Academy and Duke University.
He went on to become a talisman for the national team making his debut in 2007 and winning 41 caps as GB's greatest-ever player.
“I’m truly honoured to be awarded with the Order of British Empire joining such a prestigious group of people,” said Deng.
“I will always be thankful for the opportunity provided by UK for me and my family as a refugee.”
Deng, who retired from the NBA after 15 seasons in 2019, funds an annual ‘Deng camp’ for the most gifted young players in the country and launched the Deng Basketball Academy as part of his Luol Deng Foundation.
Essex Rebels Juniors director Rob Angira was awarded an MBE for services to underprivileged children through sport.
Congratulations to our very own Club Director Robert Angira on recognition for his services to underprivileged children in Essex. We are all very proud and grateful for your tireless selfless service to basketball and our community! 🏅🏅🏅🎉🎉🥳🏀🏀 pic.twitter.com/xh2vMxhenx
— Essex Rebels Jnr Basketball Club (@RebelsJnr) June 12, 2021
Main picture: Tom Shaw
