FIBA Oceania Bulletin
Developing and
promoting basketball
across the Pacific
* Secretary General visits
CNMI, Palau and Guam
* Australian High Commission assists Solomons
* Assist 14 now available
* Highlands basketball
booming.
* 4 nations tournament in
Australia
P.O. Box 174, Toormina
NSW, Australia 2452
July 2005
President’s Report:
July will be an action packed month for our sport
across the basketball world.
great UCLA. We wish
them good luck at the
World Championships.
The South Pacific Mini games in Palau have attracted a strong line up of both men’s and
women’s teams which should ensure a very interesting competition.
Also in July, Australia will
represent the Oceania zone
in the Under 21 Men’s
World Championships in
Argentina.
Like the Gems, the Crocs
(Crocodiles) also have medal hopes in Argentina.
Basketball is one of eleven sports being played in
the Republic of Palau and is certain to attract
good spectator attendances, as basketball remains
one of the most popular sports in the Pacific.
During the Min Games, FIBA Oceania will conduct our four-yearly Congress which will elect
the next President and Management Committee
for the 2006-2010 term. The Congress is an important occasion for FIBA Oceania and the 21
member National Federations as it provides an
excellent forum for federation representatives to
report on the progress of basketball in their re spective countries and debate the future plans for
the next four year term, commencing August
2006.
The FIBA Oceania zone covers an enormous
geographic area making it very difficult, very
costly and very time consuming to our member
federations as they each strive to further develop
and promote the wonderful game of basketball.
It is very important, therefore, that all member
federations make every effort to attend the seminar on Saturday 30th July and the Congress on
Sunday 31st July.
The Australian Gems will represent FIBA Oce ania at the FIBA Under 19 Women’s World
Championships in Tunisia from 15th—24th July
with high hopes of a medal for FIBA Oceania .
The Gems, coached by retiring Australian Institute of Sport Head Coach Phil Brown, have enjoyed several practise games against visiting
USA Women’s College teams, including the
The Australian and New Zealand Women’s and
Men’s teams have been busy in training camps in
preparation for several international tournament
during July and August leading to the allimportant FIBA Oceania Championships in New
Zealand, 14-19th August (men) and 21-26 August (women), which also serves as the qualifica tion for the FIBA 2006 men’s and women’s
World Championships.
28th June was a big day for 2.14 cm (7 footer)
Andrew Bogut, the young Australian who was
selected as the No 1 draft pick in the NBA, after
enjoying an outstanding season at the University
of Utah, USA. Bogut will join the Milwaukee
Bucks.
Bogut was named the Most Valuable Player of
the 2003 World Junior Championships and was a
key player for the Australian Boomers in the
Athens Olympics.
FIBA Oceania delegates Steve Smith & Barbara
Wheadon attended the May FIBA Central Board.
I was an apology due to family commitments.
Both Steve and Barbara were very strong advocates for Oceania basketball.
I look forward to seeing many of you in Palau in
June.
Bob Elphinston
Ph +61 2 6658 6110
Fax +61 2 6658 6114
Email:
[email protected]
Website:
www.fibaoceania.com
SPG Mini Games—Palau 24th June to 4th July 2005
GOOD LUCK TO ALL PARTICIPATING TEAMS
Basketball teams from across the Pacific will come together in Palau for this years
South Pacific Mini Games Basketball program.
Tournament director Sinton
Soalablai and his dedicated volunteers have been working overtime to ensure that
everything is ready for the June tip off.
The federations to participate in the basketball program are Palau, Guam, FSM,
Fiji, New Caledonia, Solomon Islands and the Marshall Islands.
We welcome stories from across the zone for the Bulletin. If you have some news from your club, school, association
or federation, email it, and a photograph to Judy Smith at [email protected]
The Oceania Bulletin is an official publication of FIBA OCEANIA and is circulated throughout Oceania, Asia, Africa, the
Americas and Europe. To be added to the email distribution list, send your address to [email protected]
Visit our website at www.fibaoceania.com for previous editions.
FIBA Oceania Bulletin, July 2005
Page 2
Secretary General Visits Guam, Palau and the Northern Mariana Islands
FIBA Oceania Secretary General Steve Smith recently visited the
Northern Pacific nation of Palau to check on preparations for the
Mini South Pacific Games.
Palau have made a great effort to provide the best possible conditions it can for the basketball competition. The timber floor in
the National Gym is scheduled for a re-seal before the games,
new shot clocks and basketball backstops are on order and new
temporary change rooms and office facilities will be created for
the Games.
During the recent visit, Smith met with Palau NOC president
Frank Kyoto, NOC CEO Baklai Temengil, NBDO Topps
Sungino and Sports Officer Jubilee Kautei. The organising committee is headed by Chairman Patrick Tellei with daily administration under the direction of Susan Ngirausui. A comprehensive
discussion about all basketball arrangements was held during
Smith's visit and very shortly all competing federations will receive detailed information from Palau.
Smith donated several pieces of basketball equipment for use during the games including the new 12 panel FIBA basketball. The
Molten 12 panel ball became the official ball for FIBA competitions after the Athens Olympics and the Mini Games will be the
first Oceania competition where the ball has been used. The Palau Games will also be the debut for the size 6 ball for women’s
competition.
FIBA Oceania will conduct its 4-yearly Congress during the Mini
Games as well as a meeting of the Management Committee.
Smith’s visit to Palau allowed him to make the necessary arrangements for the Congress.
Steve Smith with members of the Northern Mariana Islands Federation
the future development of basketball on Guam, as well as FIBA
Oceania’s possible involvement with the Friendship International
Basketball Tournament. Discussions also included basic basketball program development including how to implement a talented
player program. The visit to Guam was also a chance for Smith to
evaluate Guam’s bid to host the 2006 FIBA Oceania Youth Tournament.
The Secretary General also paid his first ever visit to the Co mmonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The visit was hosted
by the Basketball Federation (BANMI) and organised by its Secretary Mike White. Local referee and coach Gabriel White accompanied Smith on his visit to local facilities and meetings with
government sports representatives.
Smith’s visit to Palau coincided with a visit by Vidhya Lakhan
(Fiji), President of the South Pacific Games Council. Smith &
Lakhan were able to discuss a number of South Pacific Games
issues including progress for the next games in Samoa, the review
of the SPG Charter and the establishment of a permanent SPG
secretariat.
Smith said following his vis it “I am really sorry that it has taken
me so long to visit our basketball federation in CNMI and even
now, on this brief visit, I only had a chance to visit Saipan. Basketball in Saipan has tremendous potential. There are several very
good facilities, and the prospect of even more should Governor
Babauta be re-elected for a second term. Our sport has some
knowledgeable and well connected people involved as administrators and there is obviously a great enthusiasm for it among young
people.
Smith also spent time in Guam, meeting with representatives of
the Guam Basketball Federation and the Guam National Olympic
Committee. Discussions included the future arrangements and
timelines for obtaining Olympic Solidarity funding to help with
The big challenge for BNMI is to prepare a strategic plan which
can serve as the blueprint for the future of our sport.”
“Jail-House Rock” Basketball Competition in Palau:
Palau NBDO, Topps Sungino, has been conducting a basketball competition for
some years now within the Palau Jail. While in Palau, Secretary General Steve
Smith took the opportunity to photograph the half court jail house court.
Topps reports “During Mr. Smith’s visit we went to the Jail to see the basketball
court. All the inmates got to see the ‘Main Man’ who I always tell them he is responsible for the rims, balls, nets, whistles and other donations I give to them for
free. They asked me to thank Mr Smith for his donations and generosity for taking
the time to visit them.”
The Jail-House Rock competition provides a recreational outlet to the inmates of
the jail, many of whom have played basketball while in school. When Topps commenced the competition, at the invitation of the Correctional Services Department,
he was the sole competition organiser. However, he soon set up education programs for the inmates so they could learn how to referee,
how to score and how to manage the competition.
This is another fantastic example of how basketball can assist and develop community values and relationships. Well done Topps!
Page 3
PNG Highlanders love their basketball:
Keryn Hargreaves from the Goroka Basketball association in the
highlands of Papua New Guinea contacted FIBA Oceania for
some help in supplying uniforms to the teams who have entered
the Highlands Championships.
12 sets of uniforms, donated by associations in Australia, were
sent to her, and a delighted Keryn said, via email “Everyone here
is very grateful for the kind donation. Our Highlands Open is confirmed for July 22-25th .
But getting to the Championships is a another battle for the teams.
The Mendi, Ialibu, Kagua and Nipa teams will have to travel for
2-3 days by bus to get to the Championships. These teams are
from the largest province in PNG and basketball in a big sport in
their province. So with the trip home, that is 6 days on the road.
So far the Championships have drawn 25 teams from 13 associations and it appears that Coke will be providing sponsorship for
the Championships.
Associations that have confirmed their part icipation are:
Mendi:
Men & Women
Ialibu:
Men & Women
Kagua:
Men & Women
Nipa:
Men & Women
Tari:
Men & Women
Mt Hagen:
Men & Women
Goroka:
Men & Women
Henganofi:
Men & Women
Madang:
Men & Women
Lae:
Men & Women
Wau:
Men & Women
Yonki:
Men
Chimbu:
Men
Summer Institute of Linguistics: Men
The managers, coaches and referee will be expected to attend a
tournament briefing each morning to ensure the rules are adhered
to. Hopefully the PNG NBDO Ronnie Mea and executive members of the federation will be able to attend the Championships.
And as expected, a dance will be held on one of the nights of the
tournament.
Bogut Top Pick
Australian basketballer Andrew Bogut has made
history in New York this morning, being the first
Australian player to be picked as the Number 1
Draft player in America’s NBA.
The 2.13m centre was picked by the Milwaukee
Bucks, beating out American Marvin Williams for
the number one spot. Bogut was tipped slightly
ahead of Williams to take the top spot, but the teams remained
tight-lipped about their picks ahead of the draft announcement.
The deal Bogut has with the NBA will reportedly be worth around
$14.2 million over three years. His number one status will also
entitle him to millions of dollars worth of endorsements. Basketball Australia CEO Scott Derwin was with the family at New
York’s Madison Square Garden for the Draft.
“This best-ever Australian NBA Draft performance gives an indication of just how good the development of Australian basketball
is,” Derwin said. “Andrew is only the second non-American to go
Number 1, with China’s Yao Ming the first in 2002, which augurs
well for the profile of basketball in Australia.”
FIBA Oceania Bulletin, July 2005
FIBA Assist 14 now available:
The May/June 2005 edition of the FIBA Assist magazine
is now available for free download from the FIBA website. Oceania again features strongly in the magazine,
with the editorial written by Basketball New Zealand
President and FIBA Central Board member Barbara
Wheadon. Barbara discusses the “Uprising of the Kiwis”,
an emotive and honest perspective of the successful path
followed by Basketball New Zealand over the past few
years.
Australia’s NBL Commissioner, Rick Burton has also
contributed to this edition with an article titled “The role
of the NBL in Australia and New Zealand.” Rick provides an objective review of the NBL in Australia over
the past few years, and outlines his vision for the future of
the program and basketball generally.
To read these articles, and other coaching, refereeing,
marketing conditioning and school articles, go to the
FIBA site at www.fiba.com Then click on the “FIBA
Equipment” site, then to the ‘free download area’, then to
FIBA Assist. You are able to download the entire magazine, or individual articles that you are interested in.
FIBA are also now providing a subscription service for
FIBA Assist . Visit the FIBA site to find out how.
FIBA Oceania Donates Equipment for the Mini Games:
FIBA Oceania Secretary
General Steve Smith
visited Palau earlier in
the month to check on
the organisation for the
Mini Games. While in
Palau he took the opportunity to deliver over
$1,300AUD worth of
basketball equipment for
the Mini Games Basketball program.
The equipment included 22 basketballs, heavy duty nets, mesh
ball bags, referee manuals and rule books and a court side ball
carrier. Pictured is Steve Smith (centre) presenting the new
Molten 12 panel tournament
balls to (from left) Vidhy
Lakhan, President of SPG;
Patrick Tellei, Chairman of
the Local Organising Co mmittee; Frank Kyoto, President Palau NOC and Dr
Steven Kuartel, Medical Coordinator.
While in Palau, Steve also inspected the facility to be used for
the FIBA Oceania Congress, as well as the athlete accommodation and playing venue.
He was very pleased with all the facilities to by used, and believes Palau will conduct an excellent basketball program. For
more information about Palau go to www.visit-palau.com
FIBA Oceania Bulletin, July 2005
Page 4
Guam on the Move: Big Trees From Little Acorns Grow- Stuart Manwaring, Zone Development Officer
Just imagine walking into a gym and being confronted by hundreds of miniature basketball players, all dressed in team uniforms, dribbling basketballs, shouting with enthusiasm and
cheering on their team mates who are playing on the court.
This was the scene recently as I entered the Yigo gym in Guam.
The occasion was the regular Saturday competition for 8 year
olds and under and 10 years and under teams in the
Guam Youth Basketball League.
Everywhere there was action, both on
the two courts and off. Kids dressed in
their team uniform were taking part
in the great game of basketball.
is equal to anything you could see at the World Championships.
Facial expressions and body actions reflect the ongoing change
between exhilaration and anguish. Parental and family support is
positive and everyone is well behaved. No signs of the angry
parent syndrome here. There is a code of conduct for every part
of the sport and all players, coaches, officials and parents receive
a copy before the competition begins.
Has your federation missed
the deadline for this
edition of the Bulletin ?
Next deadline:
23rd September 2005
The Guam Youth Basketball Association
(GYBA) was started just over a year ago and
now boasts some 1,000 players in age groups from 7
through to 14 years.
Teams of up to 15 players compete in 4 age groups – 8 and under, 10 and under, 12 and under and 14 and under. In these
younger age groups both boys and girls combine in teams representing 7 clubs from the Northern and Central districts of Guam.
In total 78 teams play each Saturday.
Guam is already a dominant force within the
Micronesia Region and the Oceania Zone and
the formation of these associations
should ensure the maintenance of their
position near the top in both areas.
The GYBA continues to seek out new
ideas to improve their association.
Recently I had several coaches from GYBA
attend a coaching course and more education
being planned for the coaches and referees.
Way to go Guam!
In addition to the GYBA there is the Southern Youth Basketball
Association (SYBA) catering for another 800 same age kids in
the Southern district of Guam. Add to this the coaches, parents,
families and referees and the gyms are really jumping.
Up to a couple of years ago all junior basketball in Guam was
based within the school system and inter-scholastic leagues.
These leagues only catered for a small number of players in the
ages of 12 to 18 years. While both boys and girls were able to
play, the total number of players was small compared to these
two new associations.
Teams in the Guam Youth Basketball Association
Under President, Joe Cepeda, the GYBA committee have researched the systems of young basketball competitions and instigated many sensible practices. The 8 and under and 10 and under teams are refereed by the coaches, whose main job is to
coach their teams as they move up and down the court.
The learning is step by step as far as the rules are concerned.
Initially players are allowed to travel several steps, double dribble several times, remain in the lane without any 3 second calls
and back court violations do not exist.
In other words the kids are allowed to play without the continual
sound of the whistle. Gradually the rules are further enforced,
little by little.
The 8 and under play on 8 foot rings with a size 5 ball and the 10
and under use a 10 foot ring with the size 5 ball. Both these age
groups use a smaller court, suitable for their size and athleticism.
The 12 and under and 14 and under use a regular size court and
ball.
Before every game and practice session all players and coaches
must line up and read together the player’s pledge of the association. This deals with the anti-drug message, sportsmanship, recognizing others in the game, such a team mates, opposition players, coaches and referees. Following this both teams shake
hands and then it is on with the game. The seriousness and effort
PLAYER
FOUL
LIGHT
F
O
U
L
F
O
U
L
SUB
T/O
PLAYER FOUL
DARK
SUB
PERIOD
T/O
FIBA Oceania Bulletin, July 2005
Page 5
Teitannanuarii signs a professional contract in France:
Nobody knew him when he arrived in Boulazac,
France a year ago, but the New Caledonian centre played so well that at the end of the season
Rodrigue Teitannanuarii signed his first professional contract. He will play in the French second division competition.
Of course Rodrigue may not be a familiar face in France, but
to Oceania basketballers, he is.
Teitannanuarii played for the 2002 New Caledonian Youth
team, was selected in the 2003 Oceania All Stars and then
played in the gold winning National men's team for New
Caledonia at the South Pacific Games in 2003.
Rodrigue went to France for the 2003-04 season at Longwy,
in the third league in the country. Longwy had a tough season but Rodrigue enjoyed his time there with fellow New
Caledonian, Emmanuel Soeria.
During the off-season Teitannanuarii signed with Boulazac
in the same league, but with higher ambition.
He didn't play much at the beginning of the season but hard
work always pays off and Teitannanuarii's playing time in creased throughout the year. He averaged 4.5pts and 3.1rbs
in 15 minutes per game, and also won the Slam-Dunk contest
during the league's All-Star Game.
His coach saw him improved nicely and offered him his first
pro contract at the age of 23.
Growing Basketball in Melanesia—Jon Hoyle, ZDO
The Melanesian countries have been my primary focus during
the first 6 months of 2005. Fiji, Papua New Guinea and
Vanuatu have all been visited thus far, with my Melanesian
swing being completed with a trip to the Solomon Islands in
June.
Linked by common ethnicity, each country within the region is
privileged to have a National Basketball Development Officer
employed to boost the profile of our sport and increase its participation base.
Neither Micronesia nor Polynesia is so fortunate. Subsequently, after at least three years of employment, an explosion
in playing strength within Melanesia should now be evident.
However, there continues to be difficulties in fulfilling that primary objective of the NBDO’s employment.
Thanks mainly to the generous support of FIBA Oceania, each
Development Officer now has access to a personal computer
and office space to assist with their administrative duties. Yet,
because of these assets, an expectation has been developed
within the national federations that as their full-time employee,
the NBDO undertake many of the duties that were previously
handled by members of the executive.
Consequently, less time is devoted to developing competitions
to increase the number of people playing in their country. Instead the NBDO is being increasingly burdened with administration duties spending the bulk of his time in the office rather
than outreaching the youth.
"I'm glad to stay here. It's a nice place and I can improve my
game with coach Douaglin. The team executives are happy
with my season but I know there is still room for improvement in my game. Of course it's was a dream to turn pro but
it's only another step on my road. I'd need to step up again
next season in a better league. Being able to compete at this
level, that's my next goal."
At the moment he is working out two hour everyday with the
physical trainer, and he has gained 5kg already. That's also
why he won't go back in Caledonia for the summer. "I have
to stay here, even if I really miss my parents, my sister and
my two younger brothers".
His coach says. "Rodrigue has tremendous potential, he's
quick and has a court vision way above the average player.
But he's not mean or agressive enough. In the third league he
played against some more experienced players, but in the
second league they will be taller and bigger. Rodrigue has
the capacities to play against these kind of players but he
would need to be ready in his head and in his body. Rodrigue
is at a turning point. If he manages to improve again and
reach the next level, and I think he can, he would be a great
player.".
Basketballers across
the Pacific wish Rodrigue the very best of
luck in his first professional year in
France. We will be
watching the results
with great interest.
Rodrique third from the left
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FIBA Oceania Bulletin, July 2005
Page 6
During my recent visits I have tried to stress to the NBDO’s
and the federations the need to strictly define his areas of responsibility so that a balance exists that allows him to focus his
energies on establishing new competitions, conducting coaching clinics, and organising school vacation camps, whilst also
assisting the federation with its daily administration needs.
Yet, there have been some positive initiatives concerning development within the region recently.
In Fiji since the departure of former NBDO Joe Morrel, junior
development has stagnated. However, with highly respected
sports administrator Fanny Simpson coming on board as the
NBDO, and with Australian Youth Ambassador for Development Craig Campbell in Suva to assist her in her first six
months, there is an expectation that there will be a big revival
in participation among Fiji’s youth.
In Vanuatu the Primary Schools boys and girls competition has
commenced gaining excellent media exposure.
And in a further effort to assist junior development in PNG, the
Filipino Basketball Association has announced that it will provide a K400 scholarship each year to assist an up and coming
junior player.
Also, NBDO Ronnie Mea in conjunction with the PNG Sports
Commission has initiated a new competition for Under 17 year
old boys and girls. Teams play after school in the second s chool
term and mindful of security issues in Port Moresby, school
buses are used to transport the teams to their games. This competition is a pilot program of a term-long league as currently
inter-school sport is restricted to a single “cluster” day each
term. An Under 15’s league is planned for later in the year.
News from the Northern Marianas:
Toyota Prius reigns as champions of the BANMI 25-and-Under
League, defeating Team Ulloa in the final match, 95-87. Toyota’s
Jeremy Winkfield was selected as Most Valuable Player of the playoffs, despite breaking his leg on a monster dunk in the third quarter
of the championship game. Ghaasias-7 Kings’ Freddie Pelis amen
was the league’s high scorer. The regular-season MVP award went
to Dan Barcinas of the Toyota Prius team.
Mobil Marianas will face Dai Ichi Hotel in the championship match
of the Mobil Co -Ed Basketball League this weekend. This popular
league is one of the few competitions in the Pacific where men and
women play on the same teams.
BANMI hosted a brief visit from Secretary General Steve Smith this
month, his first trip to the Northern Marianas. Also, plans are well
under way for hosting the Micronesia 22-and-Under Tournament,
scheduled for November.
News from Vanuatu.
Bye Peter Izono, NBDO
New Executive for Vanuatu Basketball Federation.
Vanuatu Basketball Federation has a new executive. The committee
is now putting together plans targeting key areas of development in
the country. The committee has the support of the major associations and with the experience gained from the past committee it is
looking to do much greater work.
One of the major focus activity in the VBF plan is the organization
of National and International competitions.
The Port Vila Basketball Association is showing improvement
every year. This year the association has increased its leagues from
4 to 6. Last year’s registration was 300 players and with the in creased number of teams we are sure to have an increase in number
of players in 2005. There are 35 teams registered for this year in
Port Vila. Sponsor are getting more interested thanks to the media.
On the island of Santo, the Luganville Basketball Association has
recently started its program. The association runs a two division
program and is looking to start an under 17 league this year. LBA
also has a good competition program for this year with four major
tournaments. They are also fortunate to have the Hotel Santo as their
major sponsor.
In Port Vila the Vanuatu Basketball Federation has
just started the Primary School Championships
with 13 schools and 26 teams. The program has
been organized every year since 2000 and involves
students and teachers from grade six.
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The Port Vila Basketball Association has been
sponsoring the championship for two years with the
hope of having an increase of players in the association within a few years.
Jon Hoyle’s Level 1 referee course.
19 new referees have attended the the Level 1
Course in Port Vila, conducted by Jon Hoyle as
part of his regular visit to our country. The PVBA
Referees Association is ready to include their
names to the referee’s roster this year.
They will be officiating the Women’s division 2
games and hopefully when they improve be promoted to referee our Premier League.
FIBA Oceania Bulletin, July 2005
Page 7
New Caledonia Prepares for the Mini Games:
The men’s and women’s national teams from
New Caledonia toured New Zealand in June in
preparation for the South Pacific Mini Games.
The tour provided valuable game experience for the teams, with
the men winning all of their 8 games.
"It was too easy in some games" said Angelo Francois -Elocie,
coach of the men’s team. "We played in a tournament against
U18 teams and we had three large wins. Then we had two
harder games against Church College (62-49) and Taupo (8880), two teams who are playing in the New Zealand second
league".
Coach Angelo worked on defensive tactics and he's now aware
of his team's strengths and weaknesses. He also knows that the
level of play would be much higher in Palau. "There will be 10
teams there" he added "We will meet the strong teams from
Guam, and Fiji. And after our gold medal in 2003 and 2001, we
are the team to beat".
However, while the New Caledonians will play for the gold
medal in Palau their main goal is the South-Pacific Games in
Samoa in 2007.
"We have a very young team with 50% new players because we
are already thinking of the 2007 Games. But we still have some
experienced players on our roster with the likes of Felix Kilikili
and Fabrice Chaliot".
While the men were undefeated in New Zealand, the ladies had
some tougher games. They lost all of their three games in the
same U18 tournament. But Rachel Kabar and her teamates finally managed to win some games against NZ second league's
teams.
Both the men and women selection will keep training and play
friendly games to be ready for THE main tournament of the
year.
Congratulations to the New Caledonian federation for providing
their teams with this valuable pre-tournament experience. The
proof will be in their results in Palau.
2005 visits to:
Chuuk, PNG, Yap,
Marshalls,
Kosrae, NZ.
Basketball in New Zealand:
The PRIMO NBL is reaching the business end of the season with
semifinals played last weekend.
Defending champions Auckland Stars Waitakere emerged as winners of the regular season with a 13-5 record, but needed a count
back to separate them from Easy LPG Bay Hawks. Those two
teams met in the first semi with the Hawks continuing their fine
late-season form and chalking up their seventh consecutive win –
92-81 – at Trust Stadium in Waitakere.
Hawks have now cemented a home final in Napier and must now
await the winner of this week’s minor final between Auckland and
the NBS Nelson Giants, who progressed with a 77-65 victory over
Scottwood Waikato Titans in the second semifinal.
Meanwhile, the Women’s NBL was dominated by defending
champions Canterbury Wildcats and their Irish import, Sue
Moran. Canterbury lost just one game all season and were far too
strong for Otago Breakers in the final, winning 83-69. Moran, the
league’s Outstanding Forward and a member of the All-Star Five,
scored 43 points in the title game and was justifiably named MVP.
Otago guard Laura Spanheimer was the competition's outstanding
guard and the Breakers’ Jarrod Olsen was named Coach of the
Year. Waikato Lady Titans guard Leanne Walker was best defensive player and Harbour forward Lisa Wallbutton was best young
player. Moran, Spanheimer, Wallbutton, Alissa Murphy and
Otago forward Kat Hanks made up the All-Star Five.
Kiwi National Team Preparations:
As the domestic programme winds down, the national teams begin
to prepare for the 2005 Oceania Championships in August.
Burger King Tall Black coach Tab Baldwin has named two newcomers to his squad for the four-nation tournament in China next
month. Mika Vukona is recognized for his improved play in the
national league this year and American Casey Frank wins selection in anticipation of his NZ citizenship.
The Tall Blacks will face Australia in the three-game Jeep Oceania Championships – August 17 at Waitakere, August 20 at
Manukau and August 21 in Dunedin. Both teams are assured of
spots at next year’s World Championships in Japan, but the series
Page 8
winners will secure the zone’s all-important top seeding.
New Tall Fern coach Mike McHugh has included many new
faces in the squad to contest the William Jones Cup in Taiwan
next month. Perhaps the most notable is young Jess McCormack
(15), perhaps the youngest player ever picked for the national
women’s team and the tallest (1.94m) member of the current lineup.
The Tall Ferns will face Australia in the three-game Oceania
Championships – August 24 in Palmerston North, August 27 in
Napier and August 28 in Te Awamutu. The series winners will
qualify for next year’s world championships in Brazil.
Junior Tall Blacks in San Diego Tournament:
The Junior Tall Blacks achieved some promising results at the
San Diego International Invitational Tournament this month,
beating China and Canada to finish fifth. BNZ must now secure
more international opportunities for their junior players to ensure
a steady flow of talent into the senior programmes.
Sean Marks Receives Championship Ring:
Congratulations to Kiwi basketball icon Sean Marks for his NBA
championship success with the San Antonio Spurs. Marks was
the first New Zealand player in the NBA when he was drafted by
the New York Knicks in 1998 and although he was not on the
Spurs’ playoff roster, he will receive a championship ring for his
valuable role as a practice player preparing superstar Tim Duncan
for his MVP performances.
Finally, more congratulations must go to BBNZ chief executive
David Crocker and his wife Kim (2004 Olympian Kim Wielens),
who are expecting twins later this year. Yikes!
Cook Islands Basketball Federation:
Pacific Rim Tournament, 13 – 16 June
The Cook Islands Basketball Federation hosted the men’s and
women’s teams from South East Manukau and Shelton Blazers
both from Auckland, New Zealand in the four day Pacific Rim
tournament against the Cook Islands national sides, from June
13 – 16 at the National Auditorium.
What initially started off as a tour by South East Manukau , developed into a planning incentive by inviting neighboring Pacific
Island countries to join in the tournament, hence the formation of
the CIBF Pacific Rim tournament. Unfortunately due to the timing of the tournament other countries were committed to their
own preparation for the Mini South Pacific Games the following
month, resulted in the NZ teams plus two Cook Islands men’s
teams and one women’s forming the competition.
During the preparation of the tournament, we also had the opportunity of FIBA Oceania, Zone Development Officer, Stuart Manwaring assisting with the squads, officials and tournament organisation.
The tournament tipped off with the Official opening on Monday
13 June, with teams marching into the auditorium after the torou
(local greeting) by the local warriors of the district. After
speeches and the formal declaration of the tournament opened by
Mayor Mere Raita, the youngest player in the Cook Islands
squad, Raita Taia aged 13 years, sunk a free throw to get the
games underway.
The South East Manukau teams were a combination of division 1
and 2 players in the NZ basketball league in Auckland. Unfortunately, the women’s team had last minute withdrawals and captain Sandra Soliai pulling her hamstring, left the squad fielding
FIBA Oceania Bulletin, July 2005
only six players. The men’s also had the same number in their
squad, and considering the circumstance both teams were able
to register only two local players in the tournament. Both
teams coached by player/coach Himmo Soliai.
Five of the touring women were Cook Islanders, with one 18
year old player, Jordina Katu. The men fielded two Cook Islanders with one 17 year old player, James Aue who eventually
took out the top scorer award with 99 points.
Shelton Blazers tournament organiser and coach, Frances Joe
fielded a relatively young women’s team of nine players. Five
of which were Cook Islanders, and three of which were under
18 years of age. The men’s team of ten players, captained by
Cook Islander, Marc Joe, with three other Cook Islanders all
under 19 years of age, combined well with the other members.
Marc Joe took out the Most Valuable Player of the tournament
with BillyJoe Flesher taking the Top Scorer in the women’s
division with 75 points. Shelton Blazers compete in the division 3 basketball league in the Auckland region.
The Cook Island women were coached by new comer to the
island, Danny Williams. Tthe combination of our up and coming under 18 players and experienced open players makes up
the undefeated CI women’s team.
The youngest player was Raita Taia at age 13 years, who
teamed up with Swedelia Tavairanga at 15 years and Mata
Tangata at 19 years to represent the Cook Islands U-20 team at
the 2005 Oceania Youth tournament. Youngsters, Richelle Topui and Demoaan Williams at 14 years, is joined by 18 year old
Mere brothers for the development side of the team. Captaining the team, Liz Carfax-Foster with Luicanna Matenga, Lynly
Shepherd and Dorothy Pokura add the experience to the side
with prior national selection status. New comer Genell Hunt,
Page 9
FIBA Oceania Bulletin, July 2005
provides a wealth of representative knowledge and skill from
the Auckland basketball leagues and reliability of Tupopongi
Marsters makes up the team of 12 for the CI womens.
AHC and now plans are underway to purchase materials to send
to the two provinces. Construction of the courts is expected to
kick off in July and hope to be completed by the end of August.
Through the double round robin games, the Cooks were undefeated, beating SEM women’s in a thrilling final 62-57 to take
the winners shield in the women’s division.
A further part of the development program for the provinces is
to conduct various courses, elect committees and organise competitions so that everyone will take part in the project. The
Solo mon Island Basketball Federation would like to sincerely
thank the Australian High Commission for its ongoing assistance towards the development of basketball in our country.
Coach/player Danny Williams also combined the U-20 development side with the open players to form the CI Men’s Green
team. Youngsters, Evan Teiti, Taratoa Metuariki, Cecil Heather,
Sean Tavai and Marcus Brown, are made up of open players
Manuel Potoru, Kieran Tupoi, Duane Howe, Maeva Kirikava,
Jake Numanga, Ezra Howe and captain Louis Marsters.
Completed the round robin games in third position, beating
Shelton Blazers 76-49 in the semi-finals to face up to the number one placed SEM men’s in the finals. Losing 87-47.
AusAid project on Bellona Island:
The Ausaid Basketball project in Bellona Island is now in its
final stages. The project is part of the Ausaid funding to the rural areas. I had initiated the project through the AUSAID funding in constructing the court in Bellona as part of the Solomon
Island Basketball Federation through out the country. The project is estimated to be around $45,000 SBD.
Coach/player John Engu’s Cook Island White team consisted of
mainly open grade players from the local competitions, Junior
Marsters, Ben Marsters, Maurice Marsters, Tim Teulilo, Josh
Neam, Steven Grant, Dan Munro, Stacey Metuariki and George
Tere with a couple U-20 players, Shane Ikimotu and Eddie
Brothers. After the round robin games were placed fourth and
didn’t progress after the semi finals from that standing.
National Women’s Test Match:
The National women’s basketball squad was tested in its second
friendly match at the multipurpose hall on Wednesday 15th
June. Despite defeating the Selects 60-44, the national ambassadors had to dig deep to earn victory. It was a good test for coach
Fa`amoana Topue as he prepares to lead his side to the upcoming South Pacific Mini Games in Palau.
The exciting tournament wrapped up with the prize-giving ceremony at the Staircase Restaurant & Bar on Saturday evening.
Tournament placing as follows:
Earlier the women's team won its first friendly by defeating
Honiara select 82-25. However second time around the select
team fielded a much stronger team which consisted of a few
former national players to try and overcome its earlier defeat. In
the process the select side almost defeated the squad, but the
national side was too good with their passing, movements and
scoring.
Men’s: 1st Semi, 2nd CI Green, 3rd Shelton Blazers, 4th CI White
Women’s: 1st Cook Islands, 2nd SEM, 3rd Shelton Blazers.
Men’s Top Scorer: James Aue (SEM) with 99points, 2nd Brad
Taylor (SEM) 61pts, 3rd Ezra Howe (CI Green) 58 pts.
Women’s Top Scorer: BillyJoe Flesher (Shelton Blazers) 75
points, 2nd Mamu Rere (SEM) 74pts, 3rd Lucianna Matenga (CI)
60 pts.
Most Valuable Player (Men): Marc Joe (Shelton Blazers)
Most Valuable Player (Women): Margaret Katu (SEM)
CIBF would like to thank all sponsors, Vital Water, RTM, BCI,
Tex Mart, Staircase Restaurant & Bar, Downtown Contractors
for all their generous donations and products for the tournament. To everyone that was involved with the organisation and
running of the tournament, meitaki maata.
Referees to Palau:
The Solomon Island Basketball Federation will be sending 3
senior referees to the Palau Mini Game to help out in the offic iating of the basketball tournament following approval from
FIBA Oceania. The referees are Brian Pongotapu, Emma Hatigeva and Lungu Kiloko.
The Solomon Island Basketball Federation would like to thank
FIBA Oceania for accepting our 3 referees as it will really boost
our referees’ standard. Solomon Island will bid to host the 2011
SPG, so we need to expose our referees abroad and to have
them experience tougher competition in preparation for future
regional national tournaments.
Solomon Islands:
By NBDO Golden Kiloko
Australian High Commission assisting Solomon Basketball:
The Australian High Commission has agreed to fund two out
door basketball court in Temotu and Makira Province as part of
the preparations for the Solomon Games in the Makira/Ulawa
Province in 2006.
The National Basketball Development Officer had submitted
the project to the Australian High Commission last year as part
of the Solomon Island Basketball Federation development plan
in the Provinces.
The AHC has offered $15,000AUD to assist in constructing the
two outdoor courts ahead of the Solomon Game, and it is hoped
that the same assistance will be given to other provinces as part
of the plan. The Australian High Commission has decided to
channel the fund through National Sport Council for transparency and accountability. We have had several meetings with the
Girls High school grand finals in Honiara
Page 10
Honiara Basketball
The 2005 Honiara Basketball League Super 8 basketball comp etition tipped off in early June. 8 men’s and 8 women’s teams are
taking part in the Super 8, including a men’s and women’s team
from the Regional Assistant Mission to Solomon Island (RAMSI)
and a men’s team from the Philipino community. The competition is really heating up. The new teams have helped raise the
standard, the promotion and development of the game.
Jon Hoyle Visit:
Jon Hoyle once again visited our country as part of the FIBA
Oceania Development Program. The Solomon Island Basketball
Federation has once again benefited from the Solidarity program
with the assistance from FIBA Oceania While here Jon assisted
the national federation with its strategic plan, competition and
federation administration and preparing the national teams to Palau. The SIBF would like sincerely thanks Jon and FIBA Oceania
for sending him to assist with our programs.
News from Fiji:
Schools Championships
Underway in Suva:
The annual Schools Championships have tipped off in Suva,
Fiji. 38 teams are playing in
the competition in the under
19, under 17 and under 15 girls
and boys divisions. Games are
played after school on the undercover courts at the Suva
Gra mmar school.
"Students were excited to play
in the new competition and the
atmosphere was awesome,"
organiser Fanny Simpson said.
The Saints displayed good basketball skills against a game
The U-15 girls in action in Suva
opposition at the Grammar
courts.
LDS manageress Mere Ritova said the new competition was a
good family outing opportunity. "Playing without a coach, our
players have been using their initiative to train twice a week, with
senior players in charge" Ritova said .
4 Nations Tournament in Australia:
An exciting new Australian-based international basketball tournament for men has been announced by
Basketball Australia. The Australian Boomers will
take on world powers China, Lithuania and New
Zealand in an international tournament to be played
in Perth and Sydney in August.
The tournament will become an annual feature of the international basketball calendar, with the event hosted by both Australia and China on a rotational basis.
“A four-year agreement, signed with China this year, will ensure
four annual tournaments between Australia, China and two other
invited nations,” Basketball Australia Chief Executive Scott Derwin said. “Australia will host the tournament in alternate years,
starting this year with matches being played in both Perth and
Sydney.”
Competition format and schedule
Tuesday, 9 August – Challenge Stadium, Perth
FIBA Oceania Bulletin, July 2005
6.00pm New Zealand v China
8.00pm Australia v Lithuania
Wednesday, 10 August – Challenge Stadium, Perth
6.00pm New Zealand v Lithuania
8.00pm Australia v China
Friday, 12 August – Sydney Entertainment Centre
6.15pm China v Lithuania
8.30pm Australia v New Zealand
Sunday, 14 August – Sydney Entertainment Centre
3.00pm New Zealand v Lithuania
5.15pm Australia v China
News fr om Palau:
By NBDO Topps Sungino
The Palau Basketball Federation has been busy with preparations for hosting the Mini SPG in July so work is ongoing with
facility renovations on both the two indoor courts in Palau and
all the outdoor courts around Koror State. New goals and shot
clocks have been ordered for the games venue (Palau National
Gym). Painting and maintenance to all Koror State Hamlet outdoor practice courts has been completed.
Mr. Steve Smith arrived in Palau to inspect the facilities and
some of the other requirements for the Mini Games. I think he
was satisfied with the preparations. Steve donated the new
FIBA Basketballs to be used in the games and they look really
cool. The local paper had him donating the balls to Mr. Patrick
Tellei chairman of the MSPG organizing committee along with
the SPG President Mr. Vidhya Lakhan.
Yeepy!! We are the first to use them in the Oceania region.
People have been calling me wanting to purchase these balls
for their kids balls.
Palau Basketball Federation and Palau National Olympic Co mmittee in conjunction with the University of the Nations held a
Coaching clinic with Mr. David Wood (9 year NBA Veteran).
Dave was the Head coach and had 2 assistant coaches, 2 volunteer coaches and the national women and the men squads assis ting him in teaching about character building and coaching
young kids. Dave conducted theory and practical clinics.
The Youth basketball camp for kids ages 8 to 17 years old attracted about 200 kids. They learned the importance of being
good sportsman and having a winning character on and off the
court to help them make the right choices on the basketball
court and in life in general.
I personally think that the whole basketball program has been
inspirational to me, and to have this program on our island to
better prepare our youth to be great leaders in the future is a
blessing. It was a fun and enjoyable way to learn basketball and
learn about yourself and how you change your character to
make you a better person in life. All the kids had lots of fun and
received certificates as well as balls and T- shirts for participation.
Mr. Wood and I also visited the jail were he showed his highlight clips from the NBA to all the inmates. He shared with
them his testimony in life and how with the help of the Almighty Lord he achieved his goal through HARD
WORK and not GIVING UP when his peers told him that he
could not make it. Even though he achieved his goal in the
NBA he is still inspired to use basketball in sharing his inspirational story to everyone who are interested to listen to him.
FIBA Oceania Bulletin, July 2005
Page 11
“I have only a couple of unaccomplished career goals to
achieve now,” the 24-year-old said. “I am totally committed to
representing Australia, and winning gold for my country is a
dream I have had since I was a little girl.”
Eddie Calic in Samoa & American Samoa:
FIBA Oceania welcomed Eddie Calic as an additional, casual
Development Officer in June. Eddie undertook a trip to Samo a
and American Samoa in place of Jon Hoyle, who was on sick
leave.
Eddie was one of a number of candidates who undertook a
course to become an accredited Development Officer with
FIBA Oceania in 2004. He attended the Oceania Youth Tournament in Coffs Harbour in 2004, and worked with different
teams during that time.
NBA veteran Dave Wood with coaches in Palau
Eddie has found the adjustment from cold and rainy Melbourne
to the humidity of the Samoas very easy. Although it took
Eddie some time to understand “Pacific Island time”, overall he
found the experience an enjoyable one.
While in Samoa Eddie conducted coaching clinics with representative and domestic teams, and conducted a level 1 referee
course in preparation for the 2007 South Pacific games.
Kids in the Dave Wood clinic in Palau
News from Kiribati:
By Ioane Ioakim, NBDO:
Basketball in Kiribati is progressing well, with the NBDO undertaking a series of school clinics to introduce young people to basketball. Once they have learnt the basic skills of the game, the
NBDO places them into teams to play in after school competitions.
One of the school events just completed is the Junior Secondary
School competition, which was played each Saturday from
9.00am till 3.00pm at Bairiki courts. The competition was for
boys and girls. Winners of the competition, Teaoraereke boys
and Bikenibeu girls were awarded $100 each for their school.
Over 100 youngsters competed in this competition. Many parents, students and their teachers attended the grand finals to cheer
on their school teams.
In June, the 26th Independence anniversary Championships commenced. This tournament was conducted in the 21 years and
over, 17-21 years, and 14-16 years age divisions. The tournament is played each night of the working week and Saturdays as
well, and will run for 4 weeks. Prizes for this tournament will be
provided by the Ministry of Education Youth and Sport.
Jackson coup for Melbourne 2006:
Lauren Jackson, the world’s greatest female basketballer, today
confirmed her spot in the Opals team for the Melbourne 2006
Commonwealth Games. Speaking from her US base in Seattle,
where she plays for the Storm in the WNBA, Jackson said she
was thrilled by the prospect of pulling on the green and gold and
playing for gold for Australia at Melbourne.
Craig Campbell—AYAD in Fiji:
Craig’s report for June shows he is continuing to enjoy his position with Fiji Basketball. He has been busy working with
NBDO Fanny Simpson on the Secondary Schools Championships which are currently underway. Much of the officiating
(refereeing, scoretable) is being done by the members of the
national teams, which is setting a wonderful example for the
young players in the federation. They are able to see their heroes every week, and at the same time see that the national representative players are putting something back into the sport
that has given them so much.
The Tau Games, a multi-sport event for school students will be
played in Suva in July. Craig is heavily involved with the organisation of the basketball program for the Tau Games.
Craig has had the opportunity to travel to the western side of
the island to Nadi, and will be returning in August to conduct
education and skills clinics for the basketball enthusiasts of
Nadi.
Some members of the national men’s and women’s teams have
been visiting schools to conduct basketball coaching clinics
under the Development program sponsored by Colonial Bank.
Craig has been impressed with the quality of the work being
done by these young development officers, and hopes it will
lead to greater interest in basketball from the youngsters of
Suva.
Craig has also now had the opportunity to explore a little bit of
Fiji when his sister visited from Australia.
Australia Names Team for the Junior Men’s Worlds:
8 players already have a World Championship crown, and 3 are
current members of the Boomers national squad, but all 12 athletes chosen for the Australian young men’s team, the Crocs,
have their minds firmly fixed on August’s World Championships in Argentina after the final team was selected today.
FIBA’s World Championships for Young Men tip off in Cordoba, Argentina on August 5, and runs through to August 14,
FIBA Oceania Bulletin, July 2005
Page 12
bringing together the world’s best male players aged 21 or below.
Oceania players at the Youth Tournament 2004 will remember
the playing ability of Nathan Jawai, and congratulate him on his
selection in the Australian team. Best wishes to the team from all
in Oceania.
Palau …….. Where heaven fell into the sea.
Teams heading to Palau for the Mini Games should prepare
themselves for the time of their life—breathtaking scenery, traditional culture still evident in every day life and stunning
handicrafts.
The Australian men’s team is: Benjamin Allen; Aaron Bruce;
Rhys Carter; Samuel Harris;Brad Hill; Blagoj Janev; Nathan
Jawai; Matthew Knight; Aleksandar Maric; Steven Markovic;
Adam Gibson ; Brad Newley
The first word to learn before arriving on Palau is “alii”. This
is the Palauan word for greeting someone, like hello.
Coach: Guy Molloy; Assistant coaches: Timothy Mallon, Bruce
Palmer; Manager: Robert McGugan; Doctor: Dr Kylie Sellwood;
Physio: Craig Sedgman; Referee: Damien Theisz.
Holiday Time in Chuuk, FSM:
HOOPS Offers Summer Youth
Programs:
With school out for the long
summer vacation, Chuukese
youth are looking for something
to do. This summer HOOPS is
offering another Youth Basketball Tournament at Andersen
Field.
Palau enjoys a pleasantly warm climate all year round with an
annual temperature of 27 degrees C (82 degrees F). Average
humidity is 82% with frequent rainfall and a lot of sunshine.
There are more than 300 islands in the Palau archipelago, but
only 8 islands are inhabited. The majority of the population of
19,000 live in the capital of Koror.
Palau is a Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands under the governance of the USA. In 1994 it gained its independence and
joined the United Nations as the 185th member. The official
currency is the US dollar, while official languages are English
and Palauan. There are three private medical clinics and a public hospital. Palau is well served by internet cafes, while phone
cards can be purchased in many shops.
HOOPS, “Helping Ourselves:
Outreach Programs in Sports,”
was established to offer sports
programs, meaningful activities
and lifestyle education to
Chuukese youth. In particular
the issues of tobacco, alcohol, substance abuse & violence are
discussed and alternate lifestyle choices offered.
Starting Sunday June 19, a 20 years and Under basketball tournament tips off at the Andersen Field outdoor court. This is a continuation of the highly successful tournament introduced last
year.
New women’s commission for Basketball Australia:
Basketball Australia (BA) has announced the historic formation
of a new Commission responsible for both the ‘Price Attack’
Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) and the promotion of Australian women’s basketball, after WNBL Clubs unanimously voted to integrate Australia’s national women’s professional league with Basketball Australia.
The new Commission will be responsible for overseeing the
WNBL, including liaising with WNBL clubs, ensuring that the
WNBL competition is conducted in accordance with the Constitution, By Laws and Rules of BA, promoting and providing advice in relation to the conduct of the WNBL competition as well
as providing direction for elite women's basketball in Australia.
RULE BOOKS AND REFEREE MANUALS:
Federations are able to purchase bulk
supplies of the new FIBA Rule Books and
Referee Manuals at special discount
rates:
Purchase 50 and pay just $4.00AUD each
Contact Judy Smith on
[email protected] to place your order
The traditional society is composed of very complex relationships between families and clans, and is, for most Palauans,
matrilineal. The village is the basic social and geographical unit
of the community. In each dominant traditional village, the
government is made up of a Council of Chiefs who are responsible for resolving all issues normally addressed by governments from leadership to dispensing justice. The fundamental
components of the traditional government still exists today.
A typical Council of Chiefs is made up of ten traditional male
titleholders whose primary responsibilities are to rule over the
village, keep peace and order and bring wealth to the village.
These male titleholders are appointed by the female titleholders
of the clan—in modern terms this might be explained as “only
men may hold office, but only women may vote”.
Turtle shell jewellery and giant clam shells can be bought locally, but it is illegal to import these into most countries, as the
hawksbill turtle is now an endangered species. Palau tourist
guides ask that visitors help protect
the peaceful turtle by not buying
any turtle shell products while visiting Palau.