AMERICAN SAMOA - With the games just 10 days away, many teams are in the final stages of their preparations. The American Samoan Men’s 3x3 team has put together a team that has its sights set on a medal.

Filled with some of the best players in the country, the American Samoa 3x3 team is ready to make a splash in Vanuatu.

Joseph "Joey" Meredith has become one of the best 2-way players in American Samoa. Known to leave everything on the court, his perimeter shooting will be a valuable asset during the games.

His leadership and experience will be a huge impact on his first trip as a national player for American Samoa 3x3 team mentioned American Samoa Basketball Association (ASBA) President, Milton Taufa'asau.

"We're excited that Joey accepted the invitation to represent American Samoa and we know that he will compete 100%,” said Taufa'asau. “He's a smart guy and no average "JOE" when it comes to basketball and we wish him and team American Samoa the best.”

Joining Meredith is a young and talented athlete, a member of the 2014 U19 National team, Afi Nimoa'i. He has been an integral member of many high school and national team titles in American Samoa.

Nimoa’i is what some might call a streaky shooter, but his ability to pass and move the ball is amazing. His ability to see the court will be a huge help to team American Samoa in Vanuatu.

"I've worked with Afi for a long time and he had some great training from other coaches,” commented Taufa'asau. “We knew Afi would bring some fire to the team, he's a competitor. His passion for the game is admirable and we know that, alongside his teammates, they'll compete and likely move deep into the tournament through the playoff brackets."

A dynamic offensive player, Lynel “SJ” Manuma, is one of the more explosive players on the American Samoa 3x3 scene. In 2014, he represented American Samoa at the FIBA U19 Oceania Championships in Fiji. Lynel will reunite with his former U19 teammates in Vanuatu alongside with their captain Joseph Meredith.

"Lynel is a competent player and can an unstoppable athlete,” stated Taufa'asau. “What's good about him, is that he’s able to play the wing with ease and can attack the basket at will. I see great potential in him and he has great chemistry with the guys. We know he'll do good out there with his teammates."

Last but not least, an athletic marvel on and off the court, Paul Collins is one of the most reliable athletes you can ask for as player and teammate. A member of the 2014 U19 national team, Paul is a utility player for American Samoa, one that is able to play multiple positions from centre to the point guard.

His ability to both play in the post and attack the basket is one of his major strengths as a player.

"Who doesn't like a guy like this on any team,” said Taufa'asau. “Paul's ability and motor will truly help American Samoa’s team go far in the tournament. We know that Paul's addition to the team will doubtfully help in the Pacific mini games."

FIBA