Saints out to defend title

WINNERS of the Papua New Guinea semi Pro Men's League, Tamaraws will compete in the National Easter Basketball Club Championship that starts today at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.

A total of 27 teams will be competing for the $1000 prizemoney and bragging rights of the Easter Championships.

Basketball Fiji's development officer Laisiasa Puamau said defending Easter and Suva Association Men's champion Saints, who had the services of National Men's captain Leonard Whippy, were favorites to defend their title for a third year in a row.

"However, Saints should be facing stiff competition from new Raiwaqa champions Boston White and Lautoka champions Namoli," he said.

He added a new champion will be crowned in the women's category because defending champions Lady Birds failed to qualify for the event.

"Raiwaqa women's champions Sparks, who have the services of former and current national reps Mereleni Waqairawai, Breana Kamsoo, Ada Dansey and Amalaini Raluvenitoga should face stiff competition from National U19 Women's captain Grace Taito who will lead the USP Chosen Team and the young Dynamic Reds team."

Puamau said the objective of the National Championships was to invite the best clubs from all the respective associations to one playing venue to compete.

"The Easter Championship will serve as a foundation to identify players for the National Men's and Women's Team Program that will be competing in the FIBA Oceania Tournament in New Zealand in the month of November," he said.

Source: Fiji Times




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