PNG will host the 2018 International Basketball Federation (FIBA) U15 Oceania Basketball Championships.
The Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG) won the bid to host the Championships after sending an expression of interest for hosting rights of the event back in March of this year.
The BFPNG were notified of the news last Friday that PNG had won the rights to host the Championships.
FIBA Oceania Executive Director, David Crocker spoke about the recent accomplishments of PNG following the Pacific Games.
“Papua New Guinea is really gathering momentum after hosting a very successful event in 2015.
“With the world class facilities in Port Moresby and a great group of people driving the Federation, FIBA is very enthusiastic about returning in 2018,” said Crocker.
BFPNG Executive Officer, Joel Khalu was also thrilled about the FIBA Oceania decision.
“This is definitely another big tick in the box for our National Federation.
“It’s fantastic to receive that recognition from FIBA and it reinforces the outstanding work that is being done in the country to grow the sport,” said Khalu.
Khalu also hoped that playing at home would help lift the levels of the competing PNG representatives, the same way it did during the recent Pacific Games.
“There’s no better feeling for athletes than competing in their home country, in front of their family and friends. We’re hopeful that when our Under 15 National Teams take the court in2018, that support will be a major benefit that helps push their play to a whole new level,” said Khalu.