Berenadeta Nauqe, the point guard for the Zodiac Wyverns, is eager to leave her mark in the Vodafone Fiji Cup basketball tournament, which has returned after a three-year break. This tournament is particularly meaningful for Nauqe, who is motivated by the Wyverns’ previous loss in the grand finals three years ago and is taking a break from her studies to focus on basketball.
After the team’s opening match, Nauqe reflected on the initial nervousness the players felt while adapting to 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 shared. The Wyverns showcased their resilience by overcoming these jitters to clinch a hard-fought victory against an underestimated Nadi-based team.
Nauqe’s passion for basketball began with her cousin introducing her to the sport in Australia. She started developing her skills at Trinity Catholic College from Year 7 after initially participating in netball alongside her sister.
The Fiji Cup holds great importance for athletes like Nauqe, as it serves as a crucial opportunity 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 said, expressing hope for a different outcome than her team experienced in the previous finals.
The Fiji Cup, taking place at the National Gymnasium in Laucala Bay, Suva, will feature 12 matches tomorrow and eight more on Saturday. Fans can watch the men’s and women’s finals live on FBC TV.
This tournament is more than just a competition; it plays a significant role in identifying players for future events, including the upcoming 2025 Melanesia Cup. The excitement and enthusiasm surrounding the Fiji Cup not only foster the growth of basketball in Fiji but also inspire current and future athletes within the community, ensuring a vibrant future for the sport.
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