The pride of our aiga, our villages, and our entire nation is shining brightly in Apia as Samoa’s Men’s and Women’s basketball teams continue to impress at the 2025 FIBA U17 Oceania Cup.

With every match played on home soil, the energy inside Gym 2 grows stronger as villages come together to support our rising stars. This year’s tournament is more than a sporting event—it is a celebration of who we are, and a powerful reminder of our journey “from village courts to the international stage.”

For many of these young athletes, the dream began in the villages, where they shot hoops with cousins, trained on makeshift backboards, or played after school with neighbours. Today, they stand proudly before their families, their communities, and their country, wearing the Samoan uniform with honour and purpose.

Samoa Men’s Head Coach Gavin Briggs believes that playing in Apia adds something deeper for these players.

“Any young man or woman who gets to represent Samoa at home understands the honour that comes with wearing that jersey,” said Coach Briggs.

“There’s a huge sense of pride and expectation, and playing in Apia gives these young athletes powerful motivation.”

Both the Men’s and Women’s teams have shown exactly that on the court, with plenty of wins so far and proving that Samoan talent, passion, and hard work can shine on the international stage.

Coach Briggs highlighted the dedication of standout players such as Jayden Joseph, Gibson Collins, and Afele Taimalelagi, but stressed that every player was selected to bring something unique to the team.

“This team carries the hopes of everyone who trialled, all the coaches who have supported them, and all the players who paved the way before them,” Coach Briggs said.

“Representing Samoa means representing all those who have worked hard to get us here.”

The Samoa National Basketball Association, with support from the Government of Samoa through the Ministry of Sport and Recreation, is hosting the FIBA U17 Oceania Cup and the FIBA U17 Women’s Oceania Cup from December 8 to 13 in Apia, with the top teams earning their place in the 2026 FIBA U18 Asia Cups.

Samoa’s next matches for both the Men’s and Women’s teams will be held tomorrow, with game times still to be confirmed. Supporters are encouraged to check the Samoa Basketball Federation Facebook page for updated schedules.

Families across Samoa are encouraged to fill the gym and cheer on our teams. Entry is only $5, and in an effort to inspire the next generation, all children wearing their school uniform will be welcomed in for free. Parents are encouraged to bring their kids to witness the pride, determination, and talent of Samoa’s young athletes competing at home.

This is a moment for unity—whether you come from Savai‘i, Upolu, or from Samoan communities abroad. Let us stand proudly behind our tamaiti as they continue their undefeated campaign.

From our village courts to the international stage, Samoa’s journey continues, and the support of the nation will help drive our teams toward the top of the podium. All games are livestreamed on the FIBA YouTube channel.