Semi-Final Locked and Loaded, Samoa V New Zealand

PORT MORESBY (Papua New Guinea) – Australia and New Zealand both notched up wins at the FIBA U17 Oceania Women’s Championship on the last day of the group phase, with Samoa and New Zealand bound for the semi-final.

Australia out-muscled Samoa in the first game of the day to run out winners, 86-62.

Samoa fired out of the blocks to be up by three points at quarter time with Kira-May Filemu, L’Oreal Hiko, Azaleeah Oloapu, and Malia Ruud all digging deep to keep Samoa in contention.

Saffron Shiels starred again for the Gems, notching up 23 points and 9 rebounds, while Lara Somfai, and Opal Bird were all consistent with Bonnie Deas impressive off the bench.  Game Captain, Teyahna Bond was influential with crucial assists and leadership prowess during pivotal moments of the game.

“It was more of a team effort,” Bond said.  “We did what we had to do on the court to stay ahead of our opponents.  We knew that getting this win would help us defend the title, and also be on top in group matches.”

“We are looking forward to the final on Saturday, we will recover tomorrow and work on a few things before then.”

New Zealand defeated Papua New Guinea (PNG) in a dominant display to book their spot in the semi-final against Samoa tomorrow, 107-28.

New Zealand Captain Tia Pavihi, led from the front, guiding her team to a confidence boosting win.

“I think the game was a really good hit out for us,” Pavihi said.  “We started a bit slow at this tournament so today it was good to prove ourselves and it was really nice to play against the locals, and it’s a privilege to be playing here in Papua New Guinea.”

“We have gelled more as a team as the tournament has progressed, so tomorrow we are definitely going to be bringing the pressure and come in with a lot of energy.”

New Zealand will take on Samoa tomorrow in the FIBA U17 Oceania Women’s Championship semi-final with Australia advancing to the final earning a rest day.  Papua New Guinea will also have a rest day and await the play-off for the bronze medal on Saturday at Sir John Guise Arena.

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.