SUVA (Fiji) – Basketball in Fiji continues to gain popularity amongst the general public, corporate organizations and now other national sporting teams, who have adopted the sport either to learn a new skill, as a team bonding activity or to simply have fun.

With the code supporting areas of fitness such as high intensity workout, endurance, agility, speed and coordination, it is no surprise that teams and individuals are attracted to the sport. 

The year has seen a growth of participation in Basketball Fiji’s various community and Vodafone sponsored school programs. A trend that has also gained traction with organizations and teams looking to reinforce their units through team bonding activities.

One such unit was our National Rugby 7s gladiators, who chose basketball for their team-bonding activity and showed up with eagerness, enthusiasm, competitive spirit and their ‘Bula’ smiles. With the majority of the team trying the sport for the first time, it was vital that the basic rules were thoroughly explained and subsequently demonstrated by the Basketball Fiji coaches.

Much to the delight of the Rugby 7s superstars like Manueli Maisamoa, Waisea Nacuqu, Filipo Bukayaro, Sevuloni Mocenacagi, Vuiviawa Naduvalo, Jerry Matana and Joseva Talacolo, the game was soon underway and from a backhand to pop pass, there was no shortage of flare from the 7s team as they incorporated both basketball and rugby skills on the court.

Their mesmerizing ability to adapt quickly and make quick decisions in a much smaller playing field to what they are used to, is a testament of how elite  they were individually and collectively.

Reflecting on the session, Nacuqu said, “Like most of my mates, this is the first time I played Basketball and I really enjoyed it. Participating today re-emphasizes the importance of teamwork, communication and always keeping your head up – in attack and defence. It’s something that is also important in 7s rugby.” 

“One of my biggest takeaways though is scanning and reaction, always scanning and having a peripheral view of the situation and reacting quickly to sudden changes, as we experience in the basketball court, playing in a small space, it is important to have quick reaction and adaptability.” Nacuqu added.

Bukayaro, who also experienced Basketball for the first time said he also enjoyed playing the sport as it was fast paced, intense but was an absolutely fun and enjoyable session. 

Basketball Fiji Media