SINGAPORE (Singapore) - When the final buzzer sounded in Singapore, Papua New Guinea’s players weren’t just celebrating a win - they were celebrating a breakthrough.
Trust the process. Hard work does pay off.
For the first time in history, Papua New Guinea recorded a victory - against Maldives - at the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup, a moment that may seem small on the global stage, but one that meant everything to the players who made it happen - and the country they represent. Leading the way was veteran captain Sibona Kala, whose calm under pressure and belief in the team helped deliver this milestone.
"I was not surprised at all," Kala says. "We came so close in our first match against Kazakhstan. I had confidence in how the team was going to perform. But being in front with under a minute left was nerve-wracking - I just tried to stay calm and take it one possession at a time."
That composure proved critical as Papua New Guinea held on for a result that redefined their journey in 3x3 basketball. For Kala, the win wasn’t just a moment of triumph - it was a symbol of something bigger.
"It’s a great feeling after working so hard in our preparations to get to this point," he says. "We still have a long way to go, but the only way is up for us right now. And being the captain of this team, it’s such a proud moment for me. PNG is a smaller nation finding its way in basketball, and to be part of improving the game is such an honor."
"I am just proud of the team."
A New Belief
For too long, PNG had entered international tournaments with modest expectations. That mindset has now shifted.
"We always went to tournaments just trying to compete and see where we stand," Kala reflects. "But this time, the feeling is different. We believe now. We believe we can actually win games and compete at a higher level."
It’s a mental shift that could ripple through the next generation of players back home—many of whom were watching when history was made.
"The message to them is simple," he says. "Work hard. Stay humble. Make sacrifices. Commit yourself to being better. Always respect the game, respect others.
"Trust the process. Hard work does pay off."
Representing the Oceania region on Asia's Stage
Competing against Asia’s elite brought with it a different intensity - one that left a mark on Kala.
"This is FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup. The best of the best are here to compete," he says. "It didn’t really hit me until my name got called during the player intros of our first game. It's such an honor for me to keep playing for this long and being part of this event is really a blessing. I’m so grateful."
That gratitude hasn’t dulled his hunger. If anything, it’s fueled it.
“Next for us is to prepare for the next 3x3 Asia Cup. Play more games in PNG and even overseas.
"Try to learn and understand the game a bit more... but I am looking forward to competing next year again. In the mean time, THE GRIND CONTINUES!"
For a team that just proved history is possible, and a captain who leads with pride, belief, and humility - Papua New Guinea’s 3x3 story is just beginning.
FIBA in Oceania is proudly supported by the Australian Government through Team Up, and PacificAus Sports, through the PacificAus Sports Program. Their support is vital in fostering the growth of basketball in the region and empowering grassroots initiatives.
The Team Up Program, an Australian Government initiative, has been a crucial catalyst for this success. By providing support and resources, Team Up empowers FIBA in Oceania and our National Federations to deliver high-quality basketball development programs that are making a real difference in people's lives. These programs not only teach fundamental basketball skills but also promote important life skills, healthy lifestyles, gender equality messaging while contributing to inclusive communities.
This year, FIBA in Oceania remains committed to working closely with Team Up and National Federation partners to further expand the reach of our programs and create even more opportunities for people to experience the joy of basketball.
FIBA