The Basketball Fiji boys’ and girls’ teams recently made significant strides at the FIBA U17 Oceania Cup held in Samoa, showcasing both talent and resilience over the weekend. Interim Chief of Operations, William Peters, lauded the players for their commendable performances, with the boys’ team finishing fifth after a thrilling victory against Cook Islands, 89-81. Meanwhile, the girls’ team achieved an impressive win against Guam, defeating them 75-51.
Peters highlighted the teams’ unwavering determination and hard work, noting that while they did not clinch victories in the final rounds, they successfully achieved their set goals throughout the competition. He expressed pride in their efforts, emphasizing that this was their inaugural experience in the tournament. “The team learned a lot; this is the first time we’ve taken a U17 team to compete, so it was a great exposure for them,” Peters said, underscoring the potential for improvement in future competitions.
As the year draws to a close, Peters reflected on what has been a successful year for Basketball Fiji, citing numerous overseas competitions and secondary school competitions that have yielded positive results. He optimistically remarked on the prospects for 2026, hoping for an even more remarkable year ahead.
Additionally, Peters recognized the vital support from partners and sponsors, including the Fiji National Sports Commission, Vodafone Fiji, and Fiji Sports Council, attributing part of the teams’ success to their contributions. He also expressed gratitude to the parents and families of the U17 players for their steadfast support and sacrifices, acknowledging their essential role in the athletes’ journeys. The collective efforts and successes of the teams not only foster individual growth but also strengthen the spirit of basketball in Fiji.
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