Nainima's big break

Nainima's big break

VALERIE Nainima has only one person to thank for her flourishing basketball career.

The former South Carolina University player believes God is the one behind all her achievements.

After an impressive stint in the US, Nainima has managed to secure her dream contract with a German club.

Oberhausen, which plays in the top basketball league competition in Germany, has offered the 25-year-old national rep a contract to play in the upcoming season.

"This was my dream (to play in a professional club) and I thank God for making it come true," Nainima said.

"(Through this contract) I would be able to perform at high level and show others that we (Fijians) are capable of playing at the top level competition in the world.

"Everybody talks about Fiji being small but we are totally opposite when it comes to skills (in sports)."

Nainima will be joining the club this month which rules her out of the national team that will feature in the Pacific Games in Noumea, New Caledonia.

However, the former Saint Joseph's Secondary School student is keen to continue lending her support to the local players wanting to make it big on court.

"I will try to work out a deal (with the Oberhausen club) if possible to scout players from Fiji."

"We got a lot of talented players here and I will try to help them in any way possible," Nainima said.

Basketball Fiji development officer Laisiasa Puamau said they were proud of Nainima's achievements.

"It's very encouraging to hear someone that is willing to put her effort to guide the dreams of other young players playing basketball here," Puamau said.

"Valerie has done a lot for basketball here and we would like to congratulate her for the well-deserved contract."

"She is a great ambassador and role model for the young players in Fiji," Puamau said.




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