APIA (Samoa) - The FIBA U17 Women's Oceania Cup 2025 reaches its climax on Saturday as Australia and New Zealand renew their rivalry in the Final, closing out a week of exciting action in Apia.
Australia arrive unbeaten and imposing, fresh off a commanding 96–29 Semi-Final win over the Cook Islands that once again showcased their depth, chemistry, and collective edge. For Andie Smith, the performance was a reflection of how connected this group has become as the tournament has progressed.
"It was really fun," Smith said.
"I think our chemistry was really good. We all worked together really well."
That chemistry has been evident both on and off the floor, with Australia's ability to share the load remaining a key strength throughout the competition.
"This team is so great to play with," Smith added. "So many great players, great teammates as well. Fun on and off the floor."
Smith was quick to highlight the bonds within the group, singling out teammates who embody Australia's defensive identity and team-first mentality.
"Jemyma, she's my block twin," she smiled. "She's great on defense and she's the best off the floor. And also Liv [Olivia Olechnowicz], she's a great teammate and a great player."
Australia's march to the Final has been built on relentless pressure, balanced scoring, and an ability to dictate tempo, but Smith is acutely aware that the dynamic shifts when championship hardware is on the line.
"The way we've been playing, we have everything to lose," she said. "So the other team is definitely going to come out and play like they have nothing to lose - you just have to be locked in."
Across the court, New Zealand enter the Final with momentum of their own after a composed 73–56 Semi-Final victory over hosts Samoa, a performance rooted in defensive focus and rebounding intent. Gia Vukona emphasized how deliberate the Junior Tall Ferns were in their approach after a physical group-stage battle with the same opponent.
"We really put a lot into this game," Vukona said. "We were really focused on it, especially after our last game against Samoa. We didn't think what we needed to, and I think we really put a lot of effort into our defense and rebounding today."
For Vukona, the Semi-Final also marked a personal response after a quieter stretch earlier in the tournament.
"When I'm in a slump like I was in the past couple of games, I really try to focus on rebounding - just doing the little things right - and I think I did that okay today," she said.
Representing New Zealand remains the central motivation for the forward, whose connection to the jersey runs deep. Her father is, of course, Mika Vukona, who played 152 games for the Tall Blacks himself.
"It means everything to me," Vukona shared.
"Growing up watching my dad play, it's meant the world to put this singlet on."
Preparation now turns toward one final challenge against an Australian side that has already beaten New Zealand in this tournament, a decisive seeding-game result. Still, Vukona says the mindset is clear.
"Physically, go home, rest, eat well - just do the normal stuff," she explained. "Mentally, I think we have a good mind heading into it and we're excited to have another go at them."
Leadership and support have also played a key role in New Zealand's journey, with Vukona highlighting the influence of her teammates and family.
"Shout out Kashia [Bailey Nowell] - she's been awesome on and off the court," she said. "She's our other leader in this group and she's done an amazing job."
She also acknowledged those closest to her, some watching from afar.
"Shout out Mom - she-s come here to Samoa - and my brother Noah and my dad back at home in Brisbane. I miss them, but yeah, can't wait to see them."
With Australia undefeated against New Zealand in the past 7 youth-level Oceania meetings, history favors the Sapphires - but title games are rarely written by numbers alone. As one program looks to extend its dominance and the other aims to challenge it head-on, Saturday’s decider promises a fitting finale to a tournament that has celebrated both excellence and emergence.
The FIBA U17 Women’s Oceania Cup 2025 Final tips off on Saturday at 3:00 PM (local Samoa time) in Apia, with regional supremacy on the line.
Earlier in the day, Fiji also defeated Guam to secure 5th place, 75-51. Makaefa Savu had a big game for Fiji with 20 points and 20 rebounds to secure the win before competition's end for Fiji.
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