APIA (Samoa) - For the Cook Islands, the FIBA U17 Oceania Cup 2025 has been about far more than results on the scoreboard. It has been a statement of growth and the emergence of a new generation willing to carry the program forward.
At the heart of that rise stands Cody Wicks.
To finally put on that green jersey and step onto the court is a huge honor.
Pulling on the green Kukis jersey for the first time, Wicks has delivered one of the tournament's most complete individual campaigns. The forward has been the Cook Islands' leading scorer, their most efficient offensive option, and a defensive anchor - topping the team in blocks and steals while setting the tone with relentless effort at both ends of the floor.
But for Wicks, the numbers only tell part of the story.
A stage to grow, together
Competing in Samoa has been a defining experience for the young Kukis group.
"It's been an amazing experience," Wicks said. "Samoa has been a great host, and the atmosphere around the tournament is really special.
"For me and the team, it's been a chance to grow together, compete hard, and represent the Cook Islands with pride."
Facing some of the strongest youth programs in Oceania, the Cook Islands have taken valuable lessons from every matchup - lessons Wicks believes will shape their future.
"We've faced some tough teams, but every game has brought us closer and helped us understand what it takes to play at this level," he added.
Work behind the production
Wicks' impact hasn't come by chance. His performances reflect months of preparation, both physically and mentally.
"I've been putting in a lot of work leading up to this - extra shooting, strength training, conditioning, and also working on my mindset," he explained. "I focus a lot on defense and being active - getting blocks, steals, and doing the little things that help my team."
That approach has translated into efficiency and consistency, something Wicks takes particular pride in.
"Being efficient means I'm helping the team in smart ways, not just scoring."
Wearing the green for the first time
For Wicks, representing the Cook Islands at an international event is deeply personal.
"It feels unreal - honestly, it's a dream come true," he said. "To finally put on that green jersey and step onto the court is a huge honor. I'm playing for my family, my teammates, and everyone back home. It means everything to me."
That pride has been evident in his composure, competitiveness, and willingness to lead by example throughout the tournament.
Learning from Oceania's best
The variety of styles on display at the U17 Oceania Cup has only accelerated Wicks' development.
"The other nations bring different styles - some are really physical, some are fast, others are super disciplined," he said. "It's taught me how to read the game better and stay composed under pressure."
Watching the region's top youth teams has also reinforced the importance of fundamentals and chemistry.
"It's motivating. It makes me want to keep improving."
Growing together as a group
While Wicks has stood out statistically, he is quick to credit his teammates for their collective progress.
"A lot of the boys have stepped up in different ways," he said. "Some with leadership, some with energy, some with big plays when we needed them. We're all growing together."
That togetherness has been a hallmark of the Cook Islands' campaign – mirrored across the federation's broader development efforts, including the women’s program, who have also taken important steps forward this year at the continental level.
Inspiring what comes next
Perhaps most importantly, Wicks understands the significance of visibility – and responsibility.
"When young Cook Islanders see us competing on the international stage, they can see that it's possible for them too," he said.
"We might come from a small nation, but we have big heart and big talent."
If this generation can inspire the next one, Wicks believes the mission is already a success.
"If watching us pushes even one young player to pick up a ball, train harder, or believe in themselves, then we've done our job."
Only the beginning
As the tournament closes, Wicks remains grounded - grateful for the support and focused on what lies ahead.
"A big thank you to everyone supporting us - from the Cook Islands, from Samoa, and from our families," he said. "We feel the love, and it means a lot. This is only the beginning for us."
With performances like this, Cody Wicks isn't just leading the Cook Islands at the U17 Oceania Cup - he's helping shape the future of basketball back home.
Let him cook.
The FIBA U17 Oceania Cup and FIBA U17 Women’s Oceania Cup is being hosted by the Samoa National Basketball Association in Apia from December 8 to 13. The event is supported by the Government of Samoa under the Ministry of Sport and Recreation, with the two teams qualifying for the FIBA U18 Asia Cup and FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup 2026.
All games are livestreamed via the FIBA YouTube Channel in collaboration with BluWave Media.
FIBA