Efforts to promote and develop women’s basketball in the Oceania region are making significant strides. This year across the region, various initiatives focus on enhancing player skills, increasing participation, and empowering women through basketball were conducted.
FIBA Oceania 3×3 High-Performance Camp (HPC)
The FIBA Oceania 3×3 High-Performance Camp (HPC) was a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing the skills and performance of female basketball players in the Pacific region. Fiji’s Estelle Kainamoli, a participant, praised the camp for its comprehensive training that goes beyond basketball, including mental health, nutrition, and athlete empowerment
This camp is part of FIBA’s strategic pillar, Women in Basketball, and supports the growing popularity of 3×3 basketball in the region.
Her World, Her Rules (HWHR)
The Her World, Her Rules (HWHR) program is FIBA’s largest grassroots initiative, designed to promote women’s and girls’ basketball globally. In Vanuatu, the program has significantly increased female participation and interest in basketball. HWHR focuses on girls aged 6-15, aiming to unite them through basketball and promote healthy lifestyles, teamwork, and empowerment.
Rising Whistle Scholarship
The Rising Whistle Scholarship is a FIBA Oceania initiative to develop young female referees. Tai Apeang from Tahiti is a recent recipient who completed intensive training in Australia. Her journey highlights the program’s impact on overcoming barriers and enhancing officiating skills. This scholarship aims to increase the number of elite-level female referees by 2027.
Women in News and Sport (WINS)
The collaboration between FIBA and WINS (Women in News and Sport) empowers Pasifika women by providing media skills and opportunities to engage with their communities. Belinda Delana from Fiji, and Kaia Travilla from Northern Mariana Islands, scholarship recipients, gained valuable experience at FIBA events in Oceania, contributing to media operations and enhancing the visibility of women in basketball.
Guam Rising Stars
Guam’s young basketball talents, like Lana Quinata and Jia Peters, are making significant strides on the international stage. Their inspiring journeys, supported by strong family and community backing, highlight the potential of Guam’s women in basketball. These athletes are not only excelling in competitions but also breaking barriers and setting new standards for future generations.
FIBA Foundation Youth Leaders
The FIBA Foundation Youth Leaders program aims to develop future leaders in basketball. 2023 participant, Kirsten Maddison is paving the way for the next generation of basketball leaders with her recent appointment as Marshall Islands Basketball Federation Secretary General.
FIBA U15 Oceania Cups
The FIBA U15 Oceania Cups provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and compete at a high level. These tournaments serve as qualifiers for the FIBA Asia Cup youth events, contributing to the growth of basketball in Oceania and identifying future stars. The stories of athletes like Ava Jones and the Cook Islands team highlight the transformative impact of these competitions on young players’ lives
Australia won gold in both the men’s and women’s competitions, with silver going to New Zealand. Tonga finished with bronze in their women’s competition debut, while the men from Samoa claimed bronze.
Other great features from this event included a family legacy continuing in Fiji, and the rise of basketball in Samoa.