While the 2-3 zone defence of Palau had good results on Fuller in the low post, the YTS team went to a high/low post game with Fuller down low and Wood up high.  When Wood looked to cut loose, Coach Kintaro called a time-out to make some changes.

The changes to the zone allowed for Palau to quieten Wood but then Fuller let loose and it was not possible to stop both.  Fuller ended up with a game high score of 35 points, while Wood was restricted to 7. 

In a close fought encounter the YTS All Stars managed to withstand the late finish of Team Palau to win 75-70. 

National Men’s Coach Johnny Kintaro was pleased with the effort of his players throughout the tournament and especially with their defence.  “While the offence has room to improve, the opportunity to play against such height was an added bonus”, he added.  

Overall the tournament proved to be a success, with the experience and match fitness gained the National Team an added benefit.  The crowds showed their appreciation by turning up in numbers and the local press and TV provided excellent coverage.  It is likely that the tournament will continue next year.

 

 Next on the agenda for the National Men’s Team is the International Tournament starting on the 19^th July in which the team will have the opportunity to play against a team from the Philippines and a team of USA college athletes. 

The Super League for Women will also be played that same week between the National Women’s Squad and two teams selected from the National Youth Men’s and Women’s Camps held these next two weeks.    

The YTS group departed on Monday night to return home, after a dinner with the PBF Exexutive ands Senator Akitaya, who is the Chariman of Team Palau.