PNG putting finishing touches to preparations

THE Papua New Guinea U15 boys’ and girls’ sides are finalising preparations for the Fiba U15 Oceania Championships at the Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Centre in Port Moresby, says an official.
PNG U15 boys’ coach Patrick Ani said his players were working on their skills and speed ahead of tomorrow’s opener against Tonga.
“We are all aware that this is our first international challenge in this event and all the players across Port Moresby, Lae and Alotau are prepared to play for their country,” Ani said.
“We are fortunate to have three of Jordan Abel, Ethan Tsiamalili and Paitien Smare joining us from Brisbane.
“These players are bonus to support our local talent when we face bigger players from Australia and New Zealand.”
PNG U15 girls’ coach Moi Muri said they had a lot of polishing up to do, with most of the players yet to play competitive basketball at this level.
“I know that it will be a mammoth task for our young players but they have to play as a team and do the small things right from the start,” Muri said.
“We should play smart defence and turn that into offence but that depends entirely on the players.”
Meanwhile, the visiting teams started arriving on Saturday.