PORT MORESBY (Papua New Guinea) - Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea's (BFPNG) Pikinini Hoops program returned in style partnering with Niunet, for a basketball clinic featuring 13-17-year-old participants to honor the one-year anniversary of Kobe Bryant's untimely passing.

The Pikinini Hoops program under the Basketball For Good strategy focused on teaching the basics of basketball while providing lessons about fun and healthy lifestyle for its participants.

"We were pleased with the turnout and our partnership with Niunet, they were very passionate about the project and we look forward to more programs with them in the future," shared BFPNG CEO, Nick Daroa.

The event was named Mamba Day camp to honor the late NBA legend and basketball icon, Kobe Bryant.

"We're all big fans of Kobe Bryant so to commemorate his passing, the camp was named after him and we hope the inspiration of Kobe will give our kids the motivation and determination they need to be great," shared Aaron Chim from the co-sponsor CHM group.

The camp welcomed 41 youngsters but was also attended by 6-year old Ofai Lahari which inspired BFPNG officials to create a program for younger kids in the future.

"Lahari was such a pleasure for us to watch because he was very enthusiastic and tried out every drill his older teammates were doing," Daroa shared.

"It showed us that even younger kids can learn from the program and we will try to reach the younger audience with our Piknini hoops program," he added.

Daroa also reiterated the commitment of BFPNG to develop the game in the country and the reason for their dedication, the kids who enjoy their basketball programs.

"As always the happiness the kids showed throughout the clinic pushes us to work even harder to provide more basketball activities for our communities," he added.

FIBA