HONIARA (Solomon Islands) - Fiji earned a commanding 123–61 victory over Vanuatu in a must-win matchup, while Papua New Guinea edged New Caledonia 77–74 in a nail-biting finish to stay unbeaten in the tournament.
In the opening game, Fiji took full control from the tip-off and never looked back. Tyrone McLennan set the tone early, exploding for 15 points in the first quarter alone as Fiji established a double-digit lead. The Fijians maintained relentless pressure on both ends of the floor, forcing an astounding 42 turnovers and recording 28 steals - a defensive showcase that left Vanuatu struggling to find rhythm.
McLennan delivered one of the standout performances of the tournament so far, finishing with 44 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 6 steals, including a Melanesian Cup record of seven three-pointers. Joshua Fox added 23 points, while Filimone Waqabaca contributed 18.
"It was a lot of fun - when the coach gives you the green light, you’ve got to make the most of it," said McLennan postgame. "Our next game is do-or-die, and we’ll be ready for the challenge."
The win was crucial for Fiji after back-to-back losses against Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.
The second clash of the day treated the crowd to another thriller as Papua New Guinea pulled off a hard-fought 77–74 win over New Caledonia, surviving a late scare to remain perfect in the tournament.
Both teams came out evenly matched, exchanging baskets throughout the first half, with New Caledonia holding a narrow 34–33 advantage at the break. The momentum then swung in New Caledonia’s favour early in the third quarter as they strung together a 13–2 run behind strong interior play and smart ball movement. However, Papua New Guinea showed composure under pressure, gradually chipping away at the deficit and ramping up their defensive intensity in the final quarter.
As the game entered its final minute, the atmosphere inside Friendship Hall was electric. Harold Elavo and Coni Muri came up clutch - Elavo nailing a crucial layup to give them a one-point lead, and moments later, Coni Muri secured the win with a decisive layup in the closing seconds. Despite a last-second attempt from New Caledonia, PNG’s defence held firm to secure the narrow victory.
Moses Apiko led the way with 21 points and 6 assists, demonstrating excellent court vision and leadership. Apia Muri added 16 points, while Elavo contributed 15 in another composed showing. On the other side, Steeven Sillant topped his side with 17 points.
"It was a really hard game - we stayed in the game, and we’re glad we got the win again," said Elavo postgame. "Now we rest, recover, and look forward to the next challenge." The victory keeps Papua New Guinea’s momentum rolling as they continue to establish themselves as one of the top contenders in this year’s Melanesian Cup.
The FIBA Melanesian Cup continues tomorrow with Vanuatu going up against New Caledonia at 11:00 AM (local time) and Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea battling it out at 6:30 PM (local time).
The FIBA Melanesian Cup is being hosted by the Solomon Islands Basketball Federations in Honiara from October 13 to 18. The event is supported by the National Sports Council, with the two teams qualifying for the Pacific Games 2027 in Tahiti. All games are livestreamed via the FIBA YouTube Channel courtesy of TTV Solomons Islands.
FIBA