Basketball federation urged to create pathways for players

Prime Minister James Marape has noted the recent developments within the Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea, calling for the establishment of player pathway programs.

Marape, speaking during the launching of the Port Moresby Elite Basketball on Sunday, said the level of competition in basketball has picked up, citing the recent improvements in the FIBA Asia 3x3 Cup rankings.

He urged BFPNG to promote school competitions and regional tournaments, encouraging more participation in Queensland based competitions in Australia.

Showing his interest to return to the basketball court, he further asked the Federation to initiate a golden oldies event to accommodate former players including the PM.

PM Marape accompanied Sports Minister Kinoka Feo to officiate POM Elite Basketball launch.

Feo said basketball was amongst the highest paid sports in the world and encouraged players to set clear goals and stay committed to achieving them.

“If you want to be the best player, you have to work hard for it,” the minister said.

BFPNG president David Peter said desires and the aspirations of basketball has been encapsulated in the strategic plan 2025 – 2028, which was launched three weeks ago.

Peter said the strategic plan will be presented to PM Marape and Sports Minister, highlighting the federations visions and goal to develop basketball in PNG.

“Although challenging, there is definitely exciting times ahead for Basketball in the country,” Peter said.
“We have made a lot of progress in a very short span of time and the Prime Minister’s, Sports Minister and the vice sports minister’s, visit adds a lot of value to our efforts to grow and develop basketball.”

BFPNG is focused on developing semi-professional competitions and PEB is an important step in that direction.

The elite basketball comp initiated by former Works secretary David Wereh and spearheaded by director Lawrance Lahari.