BFPNG runs Final Trials for FIBA Melo Cup

As the days count down leading up to the 2025 FIBA Melanesian Cup, the Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG) began its first day of the Final Trials today (6th September) at the Taurama Aquatic & Indoor Center in Port Moresby. 

The four-day trials will run from 4-7 September, with the final lists of both men and women to be announced next week, serving as a qualifier for the 2027 Pacific Games. The race to represent Papua New Guinea on the Melanesian stage has intensified. 

After outstanding performances at the 2024 All-Star Championships, the BFPNG delivered trials in Mt. Hagen and Port Moresby as part of its progressive trimming process, which culminates in the final trimming phase. 

The high-performance team will test the athletes through defensive hustle, playmaking smarts, and clutch-time composure to make the final cut. The selection process is transparent and thorough.

Getting the session underway today, they started with High-Performance Testing, T Test and Yoyo Test, pushing the athletes to their physical and mental limits. After a short break, the players returned to the court for tactical drills and team chemistry evaluations.

Day 2 will continue tomorrow and end on Sunday. This is the last chance for the players to earn a jersey and represent PNG in Honiara, with eyes on qualifying for the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti.

Meanwhile, the Solomon Islands capital, Honiara, will stage the 2025 FIBA Melanesian Cup from September 13-18, with six countries confirmed to compete for regional glory.

PC: BFPNG