The Fiji men’s and women’s basketball teams made history on Wednesday by winning gold at the FIBA 3×3 Youth Nations League – Oceania, held in Palau. This significant victory not only brings home the medals but also earns both teams a spot at the 2025 FIBA 3×3 Under-23 World Cup and the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
The women’s team, featuring players Ranadi Koroi, Camari Ravai, Moana Liebregts, and Estelle Kainamoli, secured their gold medal with a close 16-12 win against Tonga. Meanwhile, the men’s team fought hard against the Solomon Islands, clinching their title with a dramatic 19-18 victory. The men’s squad included talented athletes like Isaac Sewabu, Keenan Hughes, Ratu Zechariah Tuivanuavou, and Tevita Vocea.
Head coach Earl Hughes expressed immense pride in his teams, stating they arrived with three goals — securing gold, qualifying for the World Cup, and achieving their Commonwealth Games berth — and they accomplished all three. He emphasized the effort and tenacity displayed by his players throughout the games, noting they played a total of 20 matches to emerge as champions in both divisions.
Fiji’s success at the Pacific Mini Games extends beyond basketball, as it contributed significantly to the nation’s overall medal tally. The country finished second with an impressive collection of 81 medals—27 gold, 30 silver, and 24 bronze—only trailing behind Tahiti. This achievement reflects both the dedication of Fijian athletes and the increasing prominence of Fiji in international sports.
The team’s victories not only bring joy and pride but also offer inspiration for future competitions, showcasing the resilience and unity of Fijian sports. As Team Fiji looks forward to representing the nation on larger stages like the Commonwealth Games and the World Cup, there is a collective sense of hope for continued success.
Overall, the achievements at this event mark a optimistic turning point for Team Fiji, hinting at a bright future for its athletes in the international sports arena.
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