Day one of the FIBA Women’s U17 Oceania Cup concluded with the host nation, Samoa, overthrowing the Cook Islands in a nail-biter. With their friends and families cheering them on in the stands, Samoa outlasted the Cook Islands women and claimed a 74-59 victory.
Samoa, with the homecourt advantage, came out in front after the first quarter. But the Cook Islands women pushed back during the second and third quarters, trapping Samoa in the backcourt multiple times with a strong defense. However, Samoa’s quick ball movement and teamwork ultimately prevailed, and the host nation secured the win.
Terise Sufia Reupena was a shining star on the court for Samoa, scoring 12 points, 6 steals and 1 block. Marley Sialeipata secured 11 points and 9 rebounds, while Adelaide Filemu scored 12 points and 6 rebounds.
“It was amazing to play in front of the home crowd,” Reupena said. “Just feeling the energy and the love was amazing.”
Reupena’s previous experience playing at the 2023 FIBA Women’s U17 Oceania Championshiphas given her teammates a natural leader who paved the way for victory.
“I used to be in the other girls’ positions, looking up to the others,” she said. “I think it’s just really cool to give back and share my experience with the younger girls now.”
The Samoa Women’s U17 side will play their next match against New Zealand tomorrow at 4pm Samoan Time.
For the Men’s U17 for Samoa they play their first match against the Cook Islands tonight at 6:30pm Samoan Time.
