Alex Masae has been named captain of the Solomon Islands Men’s National Basketball Team for the upcoming FIBA Melanesian Cup 2025, which tips off on Monday, October 13, in Honiara.
Head coach Michael Nao confirmed the appointment during the team’s final training session ahead of the competition’s opening day.
“Our team captain for the Melanesian Cup will be Alex Masae, and he will be assisted by Kalita Maelasi, who will serve as vice-captain,” Nao told Star Sports.
“Alex brings a lot of experience to the team. He has had plenty of exposure and has also captained the side before, so we’re happy to have him lead us again,” he added.
Nao also explained that with several senior players nearing the latter stages of their careers, the decision to appoint 21-year-old Maelasi as vice-captain was aimed at building leadership experience for the future.
The Solomon Islands will open their campaign tomorrow against 2023 Pacific Games gold medalists Fiji in the day’s final match at 6:00 p.m.
“The confidence is there, the boys believe in themselves and in their game. Whether Fiji are the Pacific Games gold medalists or not, our boys will fight for every match,” Nao said.
Meanwhile, the Solomon Islands Women’s National Basketball Team will also begin their campaign tomorrow, facing New Caledonia at 4:30 p.m., as both sides look for a strong start.
“We need the support of our families, friends, and home fans to come and cheer for us and to be our sixth player on the court,” Nao urged.
Earlier in the day, Papua New Guinea (PNG) will take on Vanuatu in the women’s division at 11:00 a.m., followed by the men’s match between both countries at 1:30 p.m., marking the official start of the men’s competition.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
