Papua New Guinea set to defend home court

PORT MORESBY - The Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG) has announced their men’s national team set to compete in the FIBA Melanesia Basketball Cup 2017 this coming September in Port Moresby.

The final team of twelve players and five shadow-reserves was named today, following an intense three-day training camp held at the Taurama Aquatic & Indoor Centre (TAIC).

Nine players from the squad that finished fourth at the 2015 Pacific Games have reclaimed their spots including - Apia Muri, Aron Farmer, Dia Muri, Gabriel Elavo, Liam Wright, Moses Lune Apiko, Matineng Leahy, Purari Muri & Robert Kave. Previous PNG representatives Charles Parapa and Sibona Kala have also earned successful recalls, while 20-year old James Banduru Jnr. will make his senior international debut.

Most Valuable Player of the 2017 BFPNG Men’s National Championships Lloyd Wright, was unavailable for selection due to his United States college commitments.

BFPNG President and Chair of the men’s selection panel Mr. Nick Daroa said coming up with the final team was a “very tough” decision for the committee.

“There were twenty-three athletes in camp over the weekend and all of them worked extremely hard in trying to earn a spot,” said Daroa.

“I commend each player’s effort and thank them for their outstanding commitment to PNG basketball.”

“The panel certainly had to make some difficult choices, but when we as a Federation are in that position, it means we have a wide range of talent to choose from, which is a good thing for our sport.”

“We are happy with the mix of youth and experience and feel a well-balanced side has been picked that will represent our great country with passion and pride in this tournament.”

“Playing at home is going to bring extra expectation, but I think this team will be able to achieve our collective goal, which is winning the inaugural men’s FIBA Melanesia Basketball Cup.”

FIBA