HONIARA (Solomon Islands) - Day three of the FIBA Women’s Melanesian Cup 2025 at Friendship Hall in Honiara, Solomon Islands, featured two contrasting games - one a dominant statement, the other a test of consistency. New Caledonia opened the day with a commanding win over Vanuatu, before Papua New Guinea continued their unbeaten run, securing a third straight victory against Fiji.
New Caledonia set the tone early, racing to a 12–0 run to close the first quarter and never relinquishing control. Their aggressive defensive pressure forced numerous Vanuatu turnovers, limiting scoring opportunities and allowing CAL to build a 32–12 halftime lead. While Vanuatu showed signs of life in the fourth quarter, sparking a short-lived comeback run, the result was never in doubt as New Caledonia finished strong to claim their second win of the tournament.
Angelique Ha Ho delivered a well-rounded performance with 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 steals, supported by Enola’s 13 points and Mayliss’s 12.
"I am proud of the team - we have a young group, and I love this team and our spirit, and what we can show everyone," said Enola after the game. The victory marked an important response for CAL following their loss to Papua New Guinea the previous day.
In the second game, Papua New Guinea once again showcased their defensive intensity, defeating Fiji to maintain their perfect record. PNG controlled the tempo from the start, leading 28–19 at halftime, and continued to build momentum in the second half. Fiji attempted to mount a comeback in the third quarter, but PNG’s defensive presence - highlighted by an impressive 19 steals - proved decisive down the stretch.
Nadica Samson led the scoring with 16 points, including two three-pointers, while Betty anchored the team’s effort with 12 rebounds and 8 steals. Fiji’s Kainamoli finished as her team’s top scorer with 14 points.
"I am very excited - this is my first tournament and my first time representing my country," Samson said after the win. "I was nervous to shoot the three in the first games, but I learned from my mistakes and played hard to help the team. We’re looking forward to winning the gold."
With this victory, PNG remain unbeaten and continue to build confidence heading into the final stages of the competition.
The FIBA Women’s Melanesian Cup continues tomorrow with Vanuatu going up against Fiji at 1:30 PM (local time), and Solomon Islands battling it out against Papua New Guinea at 4:00 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