APIA (Samoa) - Host nation, Samoa, gave the crowd something to cheer for in their physical game against New Zealand after Australia's win over Guam in day three of the U17 Women's Oceania Cup 2025.
Samoa held the deficit within 10 points, but New Zealand eventually outlasted them, 57-51.
At the 2023 FIBA Women’s U17 Oceania Cup, Samoa defeated New Zealand in the Group Phase, 74-59, but then lost to New Zealand in the Semi-Finals, 88-52. The history between these two teams has gone back and forth, and New Zealand brought high energy from the moment they stepped on the court in this win.
Lily Ashton was a standout all-around player for New Zealand, scoring 12 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals, and 1 block. Keija Miringaorangi scored 8 points and 5 turnovers, while Gia Vukona controlled space under the basket with 11 rebounds.
"It was a very physical game, a lot different to playing back in New Zealand," Ashton said. "Samoa played great, they’re a great time, and their crowd really helped them."
After every Samoan play, whether it be a shot, pass or block, the crowd were on their feet cheering for their home team.
This is Ashton’s first time playing for New Zealand, and she proved her talent and drive in this game.
“When I trialled, I didn’t think I was going to make the team. So, when I got the call from Ryan, it was amazing, and being here in Samoa is so surreal. It’s been my dream since I started playing basketball to represent New Zealand,” she said.
Samoa’s tight defence, rarely straying from their player, kept them in the game. Marley Sialeipata scored the most points (20), while Caprice Hiko and Adelaide Filemu tied for the most rebounds (6). Tereise Sufia Reupena also gave a great performance (8 points and 4 rebounds).
Earlier in the day, Australia controlled the game against Guam. Guam's skills and teamwork weren’t enough to beat the reigning champions, who used steals and fast breaks to dominate the game 127-16.
Andie Jade Smith played a significant role in Australia’s success, scoring 14 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Even though Australia are dominating the tournament, they’re always looking for room to improve their game and develop their skills.
"Every game we’re just getting better and better," Smith said. "Hopefully, after a couple of games, we’ll continue to improve."
Other memorable performances were given by Reece Anticevic, who scored 17 points and 4 steals, Rebecca Donnelly, with 16 points and 4 steals, and Sitaya Fagan, who was a powerhouse under the basket with 10 rebounds and 17 points.
"It's been amazing," Smith said. "Playing for Australia is just such a surreal experience, and all the girls are so great to play with."
Guam used steals and rebounds to give Australia a challenge. Kimora Victoria Paige Kidd Charfauros had 8 steals, while Laelyn Faith Han had 7 steals. Kenadie Paulino was Guam’s highest scorer with 5 points.
The FIBA Women’s U17 Oceania Cup continues tomorrow with Guam taking on the Cook Islands at 1 PM (local time), followed by Fiji going against Samoa at 3:30 PM (local time), then Australia facing New Zealand at 5:30 PM (local time).
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