Team Fiji basketball women’s side managed to pull off a 71-69 win over a fiery Cook Islands side yesterday.

In the first quarter Fiji led 18- 10.

But they could not maintain the momentum in the second quarter with Cook Islands scoring 15 points to Fiji’s 7.

Fiji regrouped in the third quarter and scored 23 points over Cook Islands 17.

Coach, Laisiasa Puamau said they were glad to get over their first game.

Getting the players to gel is a task Puamau is focused on.

“We are happy with the preparation we’ve had at home and the inclusion of our five veteran players,”Puamau said.

This includes Letava Whippy, Kayla Mendez, Valerie Nainima, Mili Koyamainavure and Vilisi Tavui.

Puamau pointed out that Estelle Kainamoli, 16, and 17-year-old Kalesi Tawake had their first taste of international competition yesterday.

“The strength of the team is in the leadership of Valerie.”

Nainima has played in three Pacific Games and won gold for Fiji in all three events.

“Hopefully this will be her fourth gold medal for Fiji.”

Cook Islands are the current champion of the Polynesian Basketball Cup.

Fiji will face an experienced New Caledonia side tomorrow.

Edited by Osea Bola

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