Laisiasa Puamau, a prominent basketball coach from Fiji, has received a scholarship to join the International Coaching Apprenticeship in Basketball (ICAB) program in the United States. This opportunity, backed by Olympic Solidarity, the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC), and FIBA, aims to enhance Puamau’s coaching capabilities at a high level.
The ICAB program, which commenced on June 3 and will conclude on November 6, 2024, consists of an intensive coaches’ education course designed to improve basketball coaching skills and provide participants with exposure to the US intercollegiate basketball setting. His inclusion in the program reflects his exemplary coaching history and potential to advance basketball in Fiji and the wider Oceania region.
Over six months, the ICAB program will cover four modules, featuring virtual sessions, in-person lectures at the University of Delaware, and a three-week apprenticeship with a NCAA Division 1 basketball program. This exceptional opportunity will enable Puamau to observe, shadow, and engage with leading US college basketball coaching personnel.
Lyndall Fisher, sports development manager at FASANOC, expressed excitement over Puamau’s selection for the prestigious scholarship, stating, “We are thrilled that Puamau has been selected for this prestigious scholarship. We believe this experience will not only benefit Laisiasa but will also contribute significantly to the development of basketball in our country.”
Upon finishing the program, Puamau is expected to apply his newly acquired knowledge and experiences to enhance basketball coaching and development in Fiji. A FIBA-licensed coach, Puamau has a rich history in basketball as both a player and coach, representing Fiji in many international competitions and leading national teams to numerous medals in Pacific and regional events.