APIA (Samoa) - Day one of the FIBA Women's U17 Oceania Cup concluded with the host nation, Samoa, overthrowing the Cook Islands in a nail-biter. With their friends and families cheering them on in the stands, Samoa outlasted the Cook Islands women and claimed a 74-59 victory.
Samoa, with the homecourt advantage, came out in front after the first quarter. But the Cook Islands women pushed back during the second and third quarters, trapping Samoa in the backcourt multiple times with a strong defense. However, Samoa's quick ball movement and teamwork ultimately prevailed, and the host nation secured the win.
Terise Sufia Reupena was a shining star on the court for Samoa, scoring 12 points, 6 steals and 1 block. Marley Sialeipata secured 11 points and 9 rebounds, while Adelaide Filemu scored 12 points and 6 rebounds.
"It was amazing to play in front of the home crowd,” Reupena said. “Just feeling the energy and the love was amazing."
Reupena's previous experience playing at the 2023 FIBA Women's U17 Oceania Championship has given her teammates a natural leader who paved the way for victory.
"I used to be in the other girls' positions, looking up to the others,” she said. "I think it's just really cool to give back and share my experience with the younger girls now."
Despite having limited time training together, the Cook Islands women showed the crowd they are a strong team not to be underestimated. Bridgette Kata led the charge for their comeback with a whopping 20 points, 9 rebounds and 4 steals. Dynahia Marsters had 6 points, 2 assists and 1 block, and Hinekawa Esler scored 8 points and 5 rebounds.
The 2025 FIBA Women's U17 Oceania Cup kicked off with a close game between Guam and Fiji. With tight passes under the basket and a hunger for the win, Guam eventually came out on top, leading against Fiji 66-62.
Lana Caparoso Quinata led Guam to the final buzzer, scoring 26 points and 4 assists. She was supported by Princess Amaragem Celis Del Carmen (15 points and 11 rebounds) and Jaelyn Faith Han (10 points and 3 steals).
"We were able to hold out, which was great for our team for the first game," Quinata said. "It's a new experience, and I'm glad I’m able to represent Guam."
Fiji was a strong competitor for Guam, dominating in rebounds and steals. Zara Suka was a standout player, scoring 21 points and grabbing 5 rebounds, while Bulou Anawaite Rasova controlled the paint with 16 rebounds. Trinity Vakacavu turned the tables with 6 steals and 4 assists.
The FIBA Women’s U17 Oceania Cup continues tomorrow with Australia taking on Fiji at 1:30 PM (local time), followed by New Zealand going against the Cook Islands at 4 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