HONIARA (Solomon Islands) - Day four of the FIBA Melanesian Cup 2025 saw New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea claim decisive victories, setting the stage for an exciting finish to the group phase.
New Caledonia bounced back after their loss to PNG with a dominant 80–49 win over Vanuatu, while PNG continued their unbeaten streak, defeating hosts Solomon Islands 78–56 to secure their place in the final.
New Caledonia came out determined to make a statement after yesterday’s setback. From the opening tip, they controlled the tempo and defensive boards, closing the first half with a commanding 36–18 lead while holding Vanuatu to only five points in the second quarter. Their defensive pressure and sharp execution continued in the second half as they maintained control and cruised to an 80–49 victory.
Ludovic Mitrail led the way with a near triple-double performance of 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. Paul Boawe added 14 points, and Joan Delaunay-Belleville contributed 11 points, 5 assists, and a game-high 5 steals, showcasing his defensive impact.
After the game, Boawe reflected on the team’s mindset: "We have to push the pressure aside. We’re focused on tomorrow’s game against Fiji - we need to win to reach the final. So tonight, we rest and prepare to play hard."
In the second matchup of the day, Papua New Guinea faced a resilient Solomon Islands side that challenged them early. The first quarter ended narrowly in PNG’s favour, 14–13, before PNG found its rhythm in the second quarter, extending their lead to 11 points by halftime. From there, PNG’s experience and composure took over as they controlled the pace and sealed a 78–56 victory - their fourth consecutive win - confirming their spot in Saturday’s gold medal game.
Veteran forward Apia Muri delivered a standout double-double with 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 5 assists, while Moses Apiko added an impressive all-around performance with 20 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 steals.
"We knew it was going to be a tough one," Muri said after the game. "Solomon Islands came hard - they’ve improved a lot. It’s unreal playing alongside family and with my dad coaching. We don’t want to let this go - we want to win for our country. Now we rest, get back to the court, and prepare for the gold medal game."
The FIBA Melanesian Cup continues tomorrow with Fiji facing New Caledonia in a decisive battle at 1:30 PM (local time), and Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands battling it out at 4:00 PM (local time).
The FIBA 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