FIBA Oceania Secretary General, Steve Smith has endorsed the proposal to employ an NBDO in the Solomon Islands and in fact has issued a challenge to the local federation that it they can beat the federation of Guam in filing the necessary documents and making the formal application, he will will reward them with a donation of basketball equipment.

Smith commented: "I am really pleased to see basketball back on the courts in the Multi-purpose Centre at Lawson Tama in Honiara. We know that there has always been an interest in basketball in the Solomons and over the years they have propduced some exciting and talented players."

" I am doubly pleased that our new FIBA International Referee in the Solomon Islands, Brian Pongatapu has decided to step in from the sidelines and take charge of leading our sport. We will be looking to support their enthusiasm in every way we can and hope that our sports partners at NOCSI, the local National Olympic Committee and the Solomon Islands Sports Council will also lend their support" said Smith from the FIBA Oceania headquarters in Coffs Harbour, Australia.