LATER Day Saints under-19 basketball captain Digitaki Kacibalavu and his Lautoka Central College counterpart Pita Gus have been drafted in the Fiji men's basketball team for the Pacific Championship in New Zealand.

The duo's performance for their respective schools during the secondary schools championship impressed national coaches who decided to include them for exposure. Fiji men's basketball coach Saula Koroi said he had named a young team.

"These two players have shown their potential at local competitions," he said. "They were part of the under-19 team for their schools and have been impressive."

He said Leonard Whippy would captain the young team.

Whippy, Tui Sikivou, Wayman Whippy and Johnny Seruvatu were part of the national team during the 2011 Pacific Games in New Caledonia.

"We named Leonard because of his experience. We have a young team so his experience will be valuable to the team."

He said players such as Wayman, Sikivou and Seruvatu would be key players for the side. Meanwhile young Tiyana Kainamoli has been named in the women's team.

Men: Leonard Whippy, Henry Tabuduka, Tui Sikivou, Esala Banuve, Wayman Whippy, Johnny Seruvatu, Joseph Peterson, Pita Gus, William Quonadovu, Digitaki Kacibalavu, Johnathon Kunau, Taione Tabaka

Women: Tiyana Kainamoli, Ada Dansey, Agnes Sokosoko, Mikaelar Whippy, Leilani Saukawa, Dale Wise, Sisilia Buitora, Sera Vugakoto, Louchrisha Hussain, Disiola Boseiwaqa, Amalaini Raluveitoga, Mereani Tawake

Source: The Fiji Times Newspaper

Saturday 2nd November 2013