PAPEETE (Tahiti) – Samoa and American Samoa continued their strong campaigns at the FIBA Women's Polynesian Cup 2026, securing important victories as the competition moves closer to the medal matches.
Samoa delivered a commanding 82-55 victory over hosts Tahiti, led by an outstanding all-round performance from Malama Leaupepe and a strong collective defensive effort.
Samoa made their intentions clear from the opening tip, establishing control through their defensive pressure and transition play. Tahiti, backed by their passionate home crowd, struggled to find a way through Samoa's defence as the visitors built a double-digit advantage in the opening quarter.
The hosts showed signs of a response in the second period, producing a quick 6-0 run to reduce the deficit, but Samoa remained composed, maintaining their advantage and continuing to dictate the tempo.
Malama Leaupepe delivered a remarkable performance, recording 25 points, 13 rebounds, five assists and 10 steals to lead Samoa on both ends of the court. Peata Manumaleuga provided valuable support with 18 points, seven assists and five rebounds, while Azaria Maua added 11 points.
For Tahiti, Oceane Lefranc fought hard with a double-double of 11 points and 13 rebounds.
Reflecting on the victory, Manumaleuga highlighted Samoa's defensive effort and attacking execution as the keys to their success.
"We had very solid defence going into the second quarter," she said. "Our ball movement and hitting shots were also really important. I think that's what separated us. We're always looking to push in transition and get those easy buckets."
Despite facing a vocal home crowd, Manumaleuga credited her team's experience and strong relationships for helping them handle the pressure.
I think off-court chemistry is really important. What we do off the court always has an impact on how we play together. It's about accepting our differences and bringing everything together. Having mature players on our team also helps a lot, especially having those leaders.
With the medal matches approaching, Samoa are determined to carry their momentum forward as they chase the tournament's ultimate prize.
"It means a spot in the final and also a chance to take that first gold, which we've been trying to do for the past three years. But we've got to focus on the next game, do our scouting, do our jobs, understand our roles and execute."
Earlier in the day, American Samoa maintained their winning momentum with a 66-58 victory over the Cook Islands, overcoming a spirited fourth-quarter comeback to secure the result.
American Samoa continued their impressive campaign with a 66-58 victory over the Cook Islands, overcoming a determined fourth-quarter fightback to secure another important win.
American Samoa took control early and never looked back, using strong defensive pressure and their dominance on the boards to steadily build their advantage.
The Cook Islands refused to back down. Trailing by as many as 29 points early in the final quarter, they produced a spirited 14-0 run to narrow the gap and put pressure on American Samoa.
Despite the late surge, American Samoa's earlier advantage proved decisive as they held on for victory.
Nevaeh Asiasi led the scoring with 21 points, four assists and three steals, while Isabella Cravens delivered an impressive double-double of 14 points and 20 rebounds.
Following the win, Cravens emphasised the importance of developing trust within a squad still finding its rhythm.
"It's only our second full day playing with each other, so we're still learning about one another and building trust. Defensively, trusting that my teammates are going to be where they need to be, and offensively, trusting that we're going to do what we have to do. I think that trust made all the difference."
Competing in her first Polynesian Cup, Cravens also expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to represent American Samoa and experience basketball across the region.
I love being around different Polynesian cultures, learning about them and getting to play against the other girls. There's so much talent in Polynesia, and I'm very grateful to be here.
While pleased with her team's progress, Cravens believes American Samoa still have more to offer as the competition approaches its decisive stages.
"Putting together a complete 40-minute performance is definitely a big goal for us. And, of course, we want to win it all."
With both Samoa and American Samoa continuing their winning form, the stage is set for an exciting conclusion to the FIBA Women's Polynesian Cup 2026 as teams prepare to battle for medals in Tahiti.
Women's teams from the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Guam, Papua New Guinea, and Tahiti (host) have already qualified for the Pacific Games 2027, with the top two placed teams at the FIBA Women's Polynesian Cup 2026 to also secure their spot.
The 2026 editions of the FIBA Polynesian Cup and FIBA Women's Polynesian Cup have tipped off in Toahotu, concluding with medal matches on Saturday October 24.