BFPNG Announced Men's & Women's U23 3x3 Basketball Squads for Pacific Mini Games

The Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG) announced its U23 3x3 final squads for both males and females in the upcoming Pacific Mini Games slated from June 29th to July 9th, 2025, in Palau. 

The announcement was made by BFPNG President David Peter during the season launching of the inaugural Prime Minister’s Golden Jubilee Oldies Basketball Competition last Thursday, May 29th, at Sir John Guise Stadium Indoor Complex. 

Both divisions comprise four confirmed players each to take the court, with two non-traveling reserves, respectively. Both sides have a few experienced players in the likes of Morea Elavo and Harold Elavo Jr (men’s), including Jackie Asiba and Philomena Isei (women’s). 

Malcolm Maliaki and Reginald Lelenge (men's division) will make their first appearance on foreign soil, while the entire squads have a couple of international experiences under their belts. They are ready to give their best and represent the country with pride.

Former PNG’s lethal shooting guard and rookie head coach of the men’s and women’s teams, Gabriel Elavo, gave an update on the two teams’ preparations, expressing confidence in the players. 

“Our preparations (male & female) have been going great. We have four men and one woman based in Port Moresby and the other three girls are based outside with school commitments. Daily sessions are shared with them, so we are all on the same page,” Elavo explained.

“Our main focus is to translate what is taught at training into real game situations. Go out there and compete hard at the highest level to reach our full potential as individuals and contribute to the teams’ success.

“We are confident that the teams selected for both men and women are the best possible candidates who can deliver solid performances come tournament time.”

BFPNG President David Peter mentioned that the players were selected based on merit bases, expressing his confidence in them to give their best and throwing his support behind coach Elavo and the traveling contingent.

“The two teams have a strong mix of players. While this will be a challenge for Elavo, I believe in his ability to lead them successfully,” Peter stated.

“This event serves as a World Cup qualifier, so we hope he (Elavo) can guide the teams to victory and secure PNG’s spot.”  

The two sides have two weeks to prepare and finalize everything before departing for Palau to participate in the 2025 Pacific Mini Games.