At the opening day for the FIBA U18 Oceania Basketball Championships, both the Fijian Men and Women’s team failed to secure victory against Guam 51 – 64 and against Samoa 26 – 47.

Basketball Fiji Chief Operations Officer, Laisiasa Puamau says that while the first games for both team did not provide a win, it did expose areas that the coaches will focus on to improve over the course of the 6 day FIBA U18 Oceania Basketball Championship.

Ms. Losalini Katia added 9 points and 15 rebounds while Mr. Collin Lal, who recently returned from the Pacific Youth Leaders (PYL) Basketball Camp in Australia, contributed 16 points.

“While the aim at this Championship is to improve our ranking, the U18 squad is a pathway for aspiring Fijian Basketballers to play at development level by gaining exposure at international events like the Oceania Championships ahead of joining our National teams who are ranked second and first in the men and women’s category at the 2015 Pacific Games”, said Mr. Puamau.

Both teams will face off today against Tahiti at 4pm and 8pm for the Men and Women’s category.

Basketball Fiji invites members of the public to visit the Vodafone Arena where the FIBA U18 Oceania Basketball Championships is being held. Entertainment for children and health awareness is also provided making the championship a family event.

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