FIJI Women’s Basketball team’s victory over Papua New Guinea with a score of 57-44 has secured their spot in the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti and earned them their second FIBA Women’s Melanesian Cup title in Honiara.
This win allowed Fiji to defend their title from 2022 and marked the first defeat for Papua New Guinea in the tournament, after they had previously beaten Fiji in the group stage.
Papua New Guinea took an early lead in the first quarter, gaining an 8-point advantage, primarily due to a late scoring surge by Jemina James.
However, Fiji staged a strong comeback in the second quarter, going on a crucial 9-0 run to take control of the game.
The Fijian team displayed a balanced effort with Estelle Kainamoli leading the charge with 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 steals. Ro Waqairawai and Bulou Marawa Elena Tuisue also contributed 10 points each to the victory.
On the other hand, Marca Muri was the top scorer for PNG with 12 points, while Betty Angula was dominant on the boards with 15 rebounds.
Both Fiji and Papua New Guinea have now secured their spots in the upcoming 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti.
Additionally, Fiji’s men’s basketball team settled for silver after losing 68-61 to Papua New Guinea in the final.
