BFPNG racing against clock for 3×3 international tour as preparations ramp up

The Basketball Federation of PNG is racing against time to ensure necessary preparations are done to get the 3x3 teams ready for the upcoming Asia Cup and Mini Pacific Games.

Following the recent trials held for under-23 and the senior teams in Port Moresby, the wider squads were trimmed down to go into specific training starting this month.

The senior men's and women's team have 8 weeks to prepare the best possible team that would represent the country at the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup in Singapore from March 27-31, while ample time has been given to U23 teams heading to Palau for the June 29 - July 9 Mini Pacific Games.

Basketball Federation president David Peter said BFPNG was in process of trimming down the list to ensure the country is represented well in the two international events in Asia and Palau.

“The process has been really rigorous in a way that we try to follow the selection criteria and the processes,” he said when announcing the teams.

“Still there's a lot of work that needs to be done but we have given our very best to ensure that the selection is fair and transparent and equitable in that way you we're giving everyone a chance to showcase themselves.”

After the trials in December, a 13-player select sides were announced early this week for the Under-23 and open divisions.

BFPNG acting executive officer Nick Daroa said their immediate focus is on the senior men’s and women’s team who have 8 weeks to draw the cards ahead of the Asia Cup.

The U23s preparing for Palau will also train with the core of senior squad to strengthen the depth of their team guided by high performance regime.

“We running out of time so we need to work with the PNG Olympic Committee, High Performance and the players so all activities are in line.”

Meanwhile, 5x5 teams will also host a national trial to assemble a team for the Melanesian Cup on October.

3x3 squad lists;

U23 Men: Reginald Lelnge, Alan Millard, Malcolm Maliaki, Morea Elavo Jr, Darren Parangkei, Logan Nagi, Givton Lama, Brown Philip, Joseph Gorogo, Simeon Topogogo, Hunter Bobola, Jabez Lucas.

U23 Women: Gloria Kaiawa, Nauna Lynette Lelai, Lynette Tongia, Gibella Maikai, Carmillia Konaha, Shaneldah Parangkei, Shantel Mope, Emmanuevella Sine, Alice Mea, Lahui Hekwa, Cayla Ham, Vasti Ham, Philemona Isei.

Open Men: Moses Lune, Sibona Kala, Sydney Dobunaba, Moses Kairi, Ryan Tetemo, Jabez Geita, Augustine Kaupa, Obert Muri, Ipai Willie, Jordan Geasa, Epson John, Emmanuel Bryant.

Open Women: Betty Angula, Hennah Kuimb, Jacky Asiba, Hennah Kalua, Norma Dabunaba, Betina Dobunaba, Jonita Warabe, Ann Kave, Michaelyn Ham, Mary Simon, Jemina James, Lucianne Kalinoe.