GUAM (FIBA Women’s Oceania Championship 2017) – The Marshall Islands U17 Women’s team have made history today winning their first ever FIBA U17 Women’s Oceania Championship 2017 Bronze Medal. Marshall Islands defeated Palau 59-42, to claim the Division B Bronze Medal.

Berlin Phillipo led her team with 13 points and 15 rebounds in the victory.

Marshall Islands used their physicality to outrebound Palau 75-50 and forced 30 Palau turnovers.

Berlin Phillipo attacks the basket for Marshall Islands

The mother-son coaching staff of the Marshall Islands, Lani and Neilani Ackley, were proud that their team was able to gain experience while playing in the tournament. When asked about bringing home a Bronze Medal with them, the coaches were happy and glad to be able to bring something home.

“It feels fantastic that we are able to bring home a medal,” said Lani. “Feels good, especially for the girl’s to be able to gain this experience,” added Neilani.

Lani said that coaching in the tournament has been quite an experience for him.

“There has been a whole bunch of feelings, it's been kind of a roller-coaster ride, but it's been good since none of us have experienced this before.”

“I think one thing we could improve would be work-ethic and seeing how these teams perform and warm up. It's good seeing what teams are the best, and shows us what we need to do to be a better team.”

Marshall Islands will now take part in the FIBA U17 Oceania Development Camp taking place over the next two days.

The remaining tournament games can be watched live and free here. Don’t forget to check out the event website for the latest scores, news and updates from your team here. 

FIBA