SUVA (Fiji) - At just 24 years old, Tyrone Mclennan is only just heading towards his physical peak. That's why he's been a key contributor on the court for his country's national team. But doing more than just putting up numbers on the court, he’s also helping shape the future of basketball in Fiji.
Mclennan was a key contributor to the Fiji national team at the 2023 Pacific Games, averaging 12.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game across five outings. So far, it's been his only appearance for Fiji in a FIBA competition, but he knows what and how much it means.
"It's an honour to represent the country, and it means a lot to me," he said.
His influence, however, extends far beyond stat sheets.
"Outside of competition and within the communities I serve, being a Fiji rep adds validity to the things I say and initiatives I undertake, being able to utilize that in a way to try and inspire others is something I don’t take for granted."
"For me personally, it's understanding that it's not just about what I do on the court. I know that there are young athletes who look up to me, so trying to be a great, positive role model off the court for them is vital.
"Its the way I hold myself, the words I use, the thoughts I share, my attitude and being aware that a lot of these will be imitated by those around me."
That sense of responsibility has driven his deep involvement with Basketball For Good programs and community outreach across Fiji. His motivation? Simple, but powerful.
"I enjoy sharing my knowledge to help others, and trying to give others a 'head start' by passing on lessons to them at a younger age than I learnt them," he explains.
But Mclennan’s community work is also part of a longer vision. Following his participation in the Pacific Games, he began to look further down the international calendar - and started to think about how he could help build a stronger foundation for future Fijian teams.
"It made me realize that I want to be a part of the development of basketball in Fiji so that in the years to come… we are on the same page with knowledge and skill, strengthening our chance at performing well on the international stage."
A Leader in Action
His work with the Hoops for Equality initiative reflects both his passion and his belief in sport as a driver of change- especially when it comes to gender inclusion in Fijian sport.
"Regardless of gender, everyone should be given the same opportunities," Mcleannan says. "In the Fijian cultural context, gender role stereotypes are enforced. If Fiji wants to continue to move forward with gender equality and inclusivity, sports is a huge vehicle of change for this cultural shift to occur."
He backs up his words with action.
.Within our หchool age programs, we always aim to have female coaches present, as we know it is a lot easier for young girls to look up to them, as they see part of them within the coaches. It's also reassuring for the young girls to have someone who may understand them more than a male coach ever could."
At the club level, Mclennan involves all players the same in their training sessions.
"That means they do the same drills, same punishments, have the same expectations set on them, and even scrimmage against the boys," he explains. "I believe this was one of the main factors that contributed to our Raiwaqa Dyanamic Reds Women’s team winning the Fiji Cup."
One standout from his sessions has stuck with him - a young girl named Athalia.
"She is the most skilled, hardest working and passionate athlete regardless of gender… watching her play really breaks all pre-conceived ideas about girls in sports."
Youth Leader, Vision Builder
Recently selected to join the FIBA Youth Leaders Program, Mcleannan sees this as a crucial step to enhance his leadership.
"For me stepping into the basketball scene in Fiji and seeing how things operate, really made me realize the space basketball has to grow here," he says. "I have been involved with many communities locally and have aspirations to advance the sport here by pulling together all the communities."
"I have been a player my whole life, but being here, my presence as a leader may be more valuable than my abilities on a court,” he added. “I hope the FIBA Youth Leader Program will help me lead confidently as I will be backed with the knowledge of how the ‘backend’ of organizing events works, and more importantly, how to go about inspiring real change."
Only a few weeks into the program, and he’s already been challenged with the key question:
"How good am I at effectively communicating the vision I have?"
One vision he hopes to bring to life is a 3x3 competition that travels around Fiji - a project that would increase access to competitive basketball and help discover untapped talent outside of major cities.
On Legacy
Tyrone Mclennan’s journey with Fiji Basketball is still in its early chapters. But the way he speaks, it’s clear he’s thinking long-term - about impact, community, and excellence.
"Legacy-wise, I want to be great. I want to be known as one of those people where everything he touched was fruitful and turned to gold."
For those who look up to him - whether in Fiji or beyond - he leaves a powerful message:
"Everyone starts each day with 24 hours. Does your use of your 24 line up with where you want to be? If not, do something about it."
And Mclennan is doing exactly that. On the court, off the court, and in every community he touches - he’s putting his 24 to work.
About Partners
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.
About MFAT
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) is New Zealand's link to the world, shaping foreign policy, trade, and providing development support, especially in the Pacific. They champion youth development and international cooperation for a better global future. With a commitment to youth development and regional partnerships, MFAT’s strategic objectives aligns with the FIBA Foundation Youth Leaders program goals of fostering leadership and creating positive social impact across the Pacific.
FIBA in Oceania remains committed to working closely with partners 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.
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