HONIARA (Solomon Islands) - Day four of the FIBA Women’s Melanesian Cup 2025 delivered two decisive results at Friendship Hall in Honiara.
Fiji bounced back in style with a commanding 103–42 win over Vanuatu, while Papua New Guinea extended their unbeaten run with a convincing 65–23 victory against hosts Solomon Islands to secure their spot in the final.
Fiji set the tone early, storming through the first quarter with a 26–4 lead and never looking back. Their defensive pressure and relentless energy proved overwhelming as they finished with an astonishing 34 steals and 39 offensive rebounds — both tournament highs so far. Vanuatu struggled to find answers on either end of the floor as Fiji continued to build momentum, closing the game with a dominant 61-point margin.
Senikau Taleitaki led the way with 20 points, 7 assists, and 9 steals in an all-around performance, while Ro Waqairawai contributed a strong double-double of 14 points and 15 rebounds. Emelia Wood added 16 points to the tally.
"It was my dream to wear the white and black jersey for the first time, following my mother’s footsteps," Waqairawai shared after the game. "I was excited to be chosen to represent Fiji. I’ll watch the game again, see where my weaknesses were, and prepare for our last game tomorrow."
In the second game, Papua New Guinea continued their dominant campaign, defeating Solomon Islands 65–23 to remain perfect in the tournament. PNG started fast, opening with a 19–4 first-quarter run and tightening their defense even further in the second half. Despite Solomon Islands’ efforts to rally in the second quarter, PNG’s defensive intensity shut down any chance of a comeback as they closed the half 31–4 and never looked back.
Betty Wong led the way with 15 points and 9 rebounds, while Lynette Tongia also added 15 points in a balanced team performance.
"We played three tough games - we were worn down, but we knew we had to win this last one," Wong said postgame. "Everyone gave their best. We had the team spirit and great support from the crowd. We’re looking for the gold medal - we want to take it back to PNG."
The FIBA Women’s Melanesian Cup continues tomorrow with New Caledonia going up against Fiji at 11:00 AM (local time), and Vanuatu battling it out against the host Solomon Islands at 6:30 PM (local time).
The FIBA Women's Melanesian Cup is being hosted by the Solomon Islands Basketball Federations in Honiara from October 13 to 18. The event is supported by the National Sports Council, with the two teams qualifying for the Pacific Games 2027 in Tahiti.
All games are livestreamed via the FIBA YouTube Channel courtesy of TTV Solomons Islands.
FIBA