PAPEETE (Tahiti) - For Ulkalani Ulberg, the upcoming FIBA Women's Polynesian Cup represents another opportunity to wear the colours of Samoa and continue a sporting journey that has already taken her across multiple codes.
Having previously represented Samoa in 3x3 at the 2023 Pacific Games, Ulberg will take another step forward in Tahiti as she joins a national team eager to showcase its development on the regional stage.
The versatile athlete arrives with experience in rugby, netball and basketball, a background she believes has helped shape both her confidence and competitiveness.
"Getting involved in these different sports has taught me so much," Ulberg said. "Each sport brings different strengths. It has helped me build confidence and push through challenges. No matter what sport I'm playing, I always stay open to learning and enjoying the competition."
That willingness to embrace new challenges has been reinforced by a sporting environment that has surrounded her from an early age. Raised in a family where sport has always played a central role, Ulberg credits that upbringing for helping shape her mindset and approach to her first FIBA Women's Polynesian Cup.
Growing up in a sporting family has always motivated me to work hard and push myself. Sports has always been a big part of my environment. Going into this FIBA tournament, I just want to give my best, represent Samoa and make my family proud.
While individual milestones are significant, Ulberg is equally excited about what this Samoa group can achieve together. Preparations for Tahiti have centred on building connections across the squad, with players bringing different experiences and strengths into the program.
For Ulberg, that chemistry could become one of Samoa's biggest assets throughout the tournament.
"What stands out to me is how everyone brings something different to the table," she said. "We've been building a strong connection during preparations and supporting each other on and off court. I think that team chemistry will be much needed for us in this tournament."
As Samoa prepares to test itself against the region's best, the tournament presents another chance to demonstrate the progress of the women's programme and lay foundations for the future.
Representing her nation remains the driving force behind Ulberg's ambitions.
"Representing Samoa means a lot to me and I want to make my family and nation proud. I hope we can show our hard work, compete at a high level and prove that Samoa belongs on this stage."
For Ulberg and Samoa, the goal in Tahiti extends beyond results alone. It is an opportunity to continue building belief, gain valuable experience, and show the growth of a programme determined to keep moving forward.
Women's teams from the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Guam, Papua New Guinea, and Tahiti (host) have already qualified for the Pacific Games 2027, with the top two placed teams at the FIBA Women's Polynesian Cup 2026 to also secure their spot.
The 2026 editions of the FIBA Polynesian Cup and FIBA Women's Polynesian Cup have tipped off in Toahotu, concluding with medal matches on Saturday October 24.