APIA (Samoa) – The Cook Islands are prepared to prove their ambition and development at the FIBA U17 Oceania Cup.
This small island nation is packed with big talent that’s ready to be showcased on the court in Samoa. Backed by a rapidly developing youth program and a squad that blends strength and confidence, the team is ready to make a statement on the court in Samoa.
Cook Islands Men’s Head Coach, Alex Brown, says this team is strong, skilled, and ready to compete.
“We’ve got boys who can really play,” Coach Brown. “Strong bigs, athletic wings, and guards who can control the pace. Some of them will surprise people. They’re fearless and proud to represent.”
The work these boys have put into their training demonstrates their commitment and dedication not only to this event, but also to their overall development.
“We’ve been grinding through conditioning, skill work, learning our system, and building our team culture,” Coach Brown said. “Our boys have been doing the conditioning programme my Assistant Coach Dwayne put together, and his sports science background has been huge for us.”
When these players step onto the court in Samoa, wearing the signature green and white jerseys, it will be a moment of cultural pride they will never forget.
“It’s our home and our people. We’re representing our families and the ones who have sacrificed for these boys to be here,” Coach Brown said.
We’re also doing it for the next generation coming after this group. Wearing this jersey means everything to us.
This U17 squad represents a nation investing in its future, a group of young athletes driven by pride, preparation, and the opportunity to elevate Cook Islands basketball. With their trademark heart and hunger, they are ready to show the region exactly what they’re building.
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.