Fijian captain Estelle Kainamoli is making waves after leading her team to a silver medal at the 2023 Pacific Games in the 3×3 basketball event. Currently, she is taking part in the inaugural FIBA 3×3 High-Performance Camp in Gold Coast, Australia. This initiative is part of FIBA Oceania’s effort to promote “Women in Basketball.”
The camp gathers over 70 female athletes from 15 national federations across the Pacific, focusing on enhancing their skills on and off the basketball court. Kainamoli expressed her enthusiasm about the opportunity, stating, “The camp has been a great experience. I’ve learned so much, not just about basketball, but also about mental health, nutrition, and emotional well-being.”
In addition to Kainamoli, the Fijian contingent includes coach Sera Vugakoto, players Camari Ravai, Ranadi Koroi, Moana Liebregts, and referee Ella Koroi. The camp is designed to foster the growth of the 3×3 format, which is recognized as one of the fastest-growing urban sports globally.
Kainamoli, who is in her third year at university, shared her optimism about the future of 3×3 basketball in the Pacific. “3×3 is a great sport for us because it’s easier to form teams. It’s fast-paced and unpredictable, which adds excitement,” she noted.
Looking ahead, Kainamoli and her teammates are setting their sights on the 2025 Mini Games in Palau, where they hope to clinch a gold medal.