The Fiji Under- 20 Women’s Basketball team won the bronze medal at the FIBA Oceania tournament in Noumea, New Caledonia.
Fiji beat Tahiti by 71-51.

Team manager Lydia Sokosoko said that the girls gave their best.

“The girls gave their very best and they know the importance of winning the bronze medal after losing the Cup competition to Australia,” said Sokosoko.

The women lost in the semifinals in a very valiant effort against a much stronger, taller and experienced Australia 68-29.

Fiji’s Mili Koyamainavure top scored for her team with 12 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists but was fouled out in the 4th quarter.

Australia’s Tiana Mangakahia top scored for Australia with 10 points.

According to Sokosoko the team could not keep up a match game with the experienced Australia side as they were fast and were more confident enough to win.

“Even though the girls gave all their best to beat the strong Australian side unfortunately the experienced Australians were more fast and were strong enough to beat Fiji,” added Sokosoko.

Meanwhile Women’s coach Seini Dobui’s team called Salad de Fui won the 3 on 3 tournament her team consisted of players from New Zealand Alisha, Australian Carly and Christine from Guam.

This tournament serves as a stepping stone to develop the 3 on 3 game and is a regular fixture at Oceania Basketball and FIBA events.

Team Managements acknowledges the support from the Government, the players’ families, friends and the Fiji Basketball Association.

The men’s team lost to New Zealand at their quarterfinal stage 86- 42 but secured seventh position after walloping Vanuatu 104-46.

Team Manager Ned Taito said that this tour is to educate these young players and assist them to be selected in the national squad and to get a medal placing.

Mili Koyamainavure was the top scorer in the women’s category.

The team arrived in Nadi yesterday and was escorted by the Police band to the military camp where they were hosted to thanksgiving church service and lunch.