CANBERRA (Australia) - Letava Kenny, a Fijian national basketball player, and her 14-year-old son, Kalae, discussed basketball's profound impact on their lives—both as athletes and as a family. Their journey highlights the power of legacy, discipline, and community, showing how their passion for the sport connects generations. A Bond Across Generations Letava’s story is rooted in a rich basketball legacy. Having represented Fiji for years, her experiences on the court shaped her athletic career and her role as a mother. “We have so much pride for our country,” she says, describing her emotions when Kalae made the national team. "Watching him wear the Fiji uniform for the first time was a deeply emotional experience and it's something we will never forget as a family,".
Letava started representing Fiji at just 14 years old and never looked back playing for the national teams of the country in almost every tournament. Her father, Michael a former national player and coach, played an influential role in her career. Michael's legacy is woven into their family’s story, and the emotional connection to basketball runs deep.
"My dad always encouraged us to come back and play for Fiji whenever we could, he's had such a huge impact on our lives and basketball in Fiji in general. Kalae is the oldest grandchild in our big family. So he's always had a close relationship with him, luckily, my dad's followed him throughout his basketball career," Letava proudly shared.
Balancing an athletic career with motherhood is challenging. Letava admits the difficulty, especially with travel and commitments, but insists it’s possible with family support. “As long as you’re willing to make sacrifices and your family supports you, there’s no reason you can’t do both,” the 33-year-old mother of two.
She emphasizes raising her children with balance, making sure they stay connected to their cultural roots. Kalae is involved in Māori groups in New Zealand and maintains ties to his Fijian heritage. “We make sure he’s involved in other activities, helping him stay grounded as a well-rounded individual.”
Letava’s desire to play alongside Kalae for Fiji in the Pacific Games speaks to the bond between mother and son—and the powerful sense of shared purpose they both feel when they step onto the court. "The ultimate would be for him and me to represent Fiji, that would be something so special," she says with heartfelt passion. The Next Generation of Promise At just 14, Kalae is already representing Fiji at an international level, currently playing in the FIBA U15 Oceania Cup. His maturity is evident in his calm demeanor on the court, something his mother particularly admires. “He doesn’t get caught up with the emotional side of the game,” Letava notes, recognizing how his composure sets him apart. Despite the immense pressure that comes with being part of such a prestigious legacy, Kalae remains grounded, understanding that the key to his success lies in consistent effort and self-belief. “It gives me pressure to do more, but I believe I can handle it as long as I keep working hard,” he says. His resilience and dedication reflect his commitment to both his legacy and his growth as an athlete.
Kalae as of posting time is averaging a whopping 31.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game and has been one of the most impressive players in the tournament so far, but the young Fijian is taking everything in stride and believes he can still improve.
"I am happy with the way I've been playing but we can always be better. If you keep pushing yourself, you can always improve.” shared Kalae who started playing basketball at six years old. Letava stresses discipline and resilience. “Being on a national team requires a lot of discipline,” she reflects. Instilling discipline in Kalae is key to his success, just as it was in her career. She also aims to let him experience the ups and downs of his journey without imposing her expectations. “I prepare him but don’t overwhelm him,” she shared. Pride, Passion, and the Power of Support
For Letava and Kalae, basketball is not just a sport—it’s a way to honour their heritage, their family, and themselves. "I’m proud that he is from Fiji, and also from New Zealand," Letava shares, encapsulating the deep pride they both feel in representing their countries and their culture. This story is more than just about basketball—it’s about legacy, family, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of a dream. Letava speaks with pride about her son and the role basketball has played in shaping their lives. “It’s so special. Full of pride, as a family, we are willing to give all the support he needs and be available for him as long as we can offer something,” she shared. For Kalae, continuing his family’s legacy is just as important as his performance on the court. “I play for my granddad, my mom, my whole family, and for Fiji. I want to make them proud of me and give back to all the support they've given,” he shares, recognizing the inspiration he draws from those who came before him. Basketball, for the Kenny family, is more than a sport—it’s a powerful legacy that unites them across generations.
FIBA