The Vodafone Fiji Basketball Secondary Schools finals saw Marist Brothers High School take the under-19 boys title while Suva Grammar School and Adi Cakobau School share the glory of the U19 girls title.
The boys from Flagstaff beat neighbouring school Yat Sen Secondary School 28-24 to claim the U19 title at this year’s meet.
For the girl’s title, Suva Grammar and Adi Cakobau decided to share the U19 title after the disruptive rain affected their match.
For the U17 titles, Suva Grammar School girls won against Gospel High School with a 26-1 victory while Yat Sen Secondary School wins the boys title with a 20-19 win against Suva Grammar School.
For the U15 grade, International School, Suva dominated with a 25-13 win over Tilak High School while the girls from Suva Grammar School won the U15 title from Latter Day Saints College with a 15-4 victory.
The rainy weather experienced in the final meet on Saturday August 31 didn’t dampen players spirits as they happily represented their schools in the championship.
Closing the event, Ministry of Education’s permanent secretary, Selina Kuruleca paid tribute to the perseverance of the National Basketball Federation and reminded them that as a minor sport, the Ministry of Education is committed to provide support to it.
In her address she called on other schools to get their students engaged in basketball.
“Vinaka vakalevu to Vodafone for their sponsorship and we call on the corporate entities to support and help build facilities in our towns and cities,” she said.
She quoted Michael Jordan saying, “Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships”.
She also extended her gratitude to the commitment of the athletes, coaches, team officials, parents, supporters and the former students of participating schools.
“There were 53 teams in 2023, 66 teams in 2024 – well done, in 2025 we would like to see more teams including a primary schools’ tournament.
“To our talented players, you have not only been great sportsmen and women, but you have also created memories that will last a lifetime.
“Your passion for the game, your commitment to excellence, and your belief in each other have brought you to this moment of glory.”
Ms Kuruleca reiterated that victory is not just about winning trophies but is about the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the growth experienced as individuals and as a team.
“As we leave today with trophies, let us also remind ourselves to be compassionate, humble, gracious, and kind.”
The tournament was held at the Lautoka Multi-purpose Court when the Term 2 school break started.
