Finals Spot up for Grabs

PORT MORESBY (Papua New Guinea) – Australia and Samoa are both undefeated heading into the business end of the tournament with a mouth-watering clash on the cards for tomorrow at Sir John Guise Arena.

The winner of tomorrow’s match will go through to the tournament final and enjoy a ‘rest day’ on Friday.

Facing old rivals, Australia remained in control throughout their clash with New Zealand, remaining undefeated heading into day three.

Saffron Shiels was again prolific at both ends of the court finishing with a double-double, while Lara Somfai and Monique Bobongie from the bench shot 25 points between them.  Sienna Harvey played a crucial role during tight moments of the game to inspire another Gem’s victory.

“We did really well tonight, we just tried to play our game, New Zealand really challenged us,” Harvey said.

Sienna Harvey at the 2022 FIBA U16 Women's Asian Championship

New Zealand trio, Elise Gilbert, Tannika Leger-Walker and Kavanah Faamaoni Lene all racked up impressive points in their defeat.

Fresh off their triumphant victory over New Zealand, the women from Samoa continued their winning ways at the FIBA U17 Oceania Women’s Championship with a 107-43 win over Papua New Guinea (PNG).

A swag of players toped the scoring card and showed impressive leadership on the court with Malia Ruud, Azaleeah Oloapu and Kira-May Filemu all playing impressively with L’Oreal Hiko finishing with a double-double 21-10.

“It was a really good game for us today with lots of runs, they scored a few buckets and then we would to, so it was a great hit-out,” Hiko said.

L’Oreal Hiko in action at the FIBA U16 Asian Women's Championship

“I’m a leader at this tournament and while I sit back, I’m always here to help if the girls need me on or off the court.  It is a really fun tournament; I love the girls I’m playing with and I’m so grateful for my family at home that has helped get me here.”

Shantel Mope and Gibella Maikai were both solid contributors for the PNG women as they now focus their attention to taking on New Zealand tomorrow.

About the 2023 FIBA U17 Oceania Championship

The 2023 FIBA U17 Oceania Championship will be hosted by the Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea in Port Moresby at Sir John Guise Stadium from October 2 to 6.  The Championships serve as the first step in the qualification process to the 2025 FIBA U19 World Cup.  The top two placed teams at the 2023 FIBA U17 Oceania Championships qualify to the 2024 FIBA U18 Asian Championships.