Zodiac Wyverns point guard Berenadeta Nauqe is excited to make her mark in the Vodafone Fiji Cup basketball tournament as it returns after a three-year hiatus. Taking a break from her educational commitments, Nauqe aims to lead her team to victory, motivated by the memory of their loss in the grand finals three years ago.
Following her team’s opening match, Nauqe shared reflections on the challenges of playing together for the first time. “We were a bit nervous in the beginning, but as the game went on, we started to find our rhythm,” she noted. The Wyverns overcame initial jitters to secure a hard-fought victory against a Nadi-based team, which Nauqe admitted they had underestimated.
Basketball has been a significant part of Nauqe’s life ever since her cousin introduced her to the sport in Australia. She honed her skills starting from Year 7 at Trinity Catholic College, after beginning with netball alongside her sister.
The Fiji Cup carries special significance for players like Nauqe, as it offers a platform for scouting national talent. “It’s been three years since they brought back the tournament, and I’m excited to be a part of it again,” she expressed, hopeful that this year’s tournament will end in a different outcome than the previous finals.
The Fiji Cup, taking place at the National Gymnasium in Laucala Bay, Suva, is set to host a total of 12 matches tomorrow, with eight more scheduled for Saturday. Fans can catch the men’s and women’s finals live on FBC TV.
This tournament is not just about showcasing local talent; it also plays a vital role in identifying players for future competitions, such as the upcoming 2025 Melanesia Cup. The vibrant enthusiasm surrounding the Fiji Cup offers a promising outlook for the growth of basketball in Fiji, inspiring not only current athletes but future generations as well, further cultivating the sport within the community.
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