Marist Club organize first 3x3 tournament in Honiara
HONIARA (Solomon Islands) - Solomons Islands' Marist Basketball Club is helping promote the game of 3x3 in the country with their ''Marist 3x3 after 5'' competition held at the Holy Cross Courts in Honiara.
The club was supported by Uriel Matanani, who registered the event officially through the 3x3 play site.
"The Solomon Islands Basketball Federation is in full support of the code so it was a pleasure for me to work with the Marist Basketball Club in registering the event," shared Matanani.
The competition feature 6 teams, 24 players, and four officials to run the tournament.
"We had many new and young players that were new to this type of competition and it was a good experience for everyone involved because the action is fast-paced and fun," Matanani said.
Despite the tournament being an introduction to many of its players, the eagerness of the players was apparent according to Matanani.
"Overall the game at first was slow but for a first-time competition, it shows a lot of promise with players eager to learn and be part of future competitions," said Matanani.
"We are also planning a Women's tournament to help promote the game to females and hopefully this could be the start of 3x3 revolution in the country," he added.
Matanani was instrumental in the success of the tournament as the lone 3x3 e-certificate holder in the country.
"With the help of FIBA and their guidance I was able to impart my knowledge and the plan is for the country to have more, I am grateful for their help that has allowed me to help the club," he said.
Marist is one of Solomon Islands Basketball Federation's longest associated basketball club and who has won multiple Honiara Basketball League championships throughout the years. It has also provided basketball with multiple national representatives both in the Women's and Men's national teams.
The Solomon Islands competed in the 2019 Pacific Games with both Men's and Women's division advancing to the Knockout Rounds while also annexing a Silver Medal in the 2017 Mini-Games in held in Vanuatu.
FIBA
