The Vodafone Fiji Basketball Secondary Schools finals concluded with Marist Brothers High School winning the under-19 boys title, while the U19 girls title was shared between Suva Grammar School and Adi Cakobau School due to rain disruptions during their match.
Marist Brothers secured the boys’ title by narrowly defeating Yat Sen Secondary School 28-24. In the girls’ competition, Suva Grammar and Adi Cakobau decided to co-hold the title after inclement weather halted their game.
In the under-17 category, Suva Grammar School’s girls triumphed over Gospel High School with a dominant 26-1 score, while Yat Sen Secondary School claimed the boys’ title with a close 20-19 victory against Suva Grammar.
For the under-15 teams, International School, Suva emerged victorious with a 25-13 win against Tilak High School, and the girls from Suva Grammar secured their title with a 15-4 win over Latter Day Saints College. Despite the rainy conditions on August 31, players maintained high spirits and represented their schools with pride.
Selina Kuruleca, the Ministry of Education’s permanent secretary, recognized the efforts of the National Basketball Federation and emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to supporting basketball as a minor sport. She encouraged other schools to engage their students in the sport and thanked Vodafone for its sponsorship.
In her speech, she quoted Michael Jordan, highlighting the importance of teamwork and intelligence in achieving success. She expressed gratitude to athletes, coaches, officials, parents, supporters, and alumni for their dedication.
Kuruleca noted the growth of the tournament, with 53 teams participating in 2023 and expectations for 66 in 2024, including plans for a primary school tournament in 2025. She celebrated the players not only for their athleticism but for the lasting memories they’ve created. She reminded them that winning is not just about trophies but the lessons learned, friendships made, and personal growth experienced throughout the journey.
The tournament took place at the Lautoka Multi-purpose Court during the Term 2 school break.