Tracy Wickham has been appointed Team Manager of the Solomon Islands men’s national basketball team ahead of the FIBA Melanesian Cup 2025, which will be hosted in Honiara next month.
During a press conference last week, Solomon Islands Basketball Federation (SIBF) President William Lai formally introduced Wickham and Louisa Murdoch as team manager for the men’s and women’s national squads.
Wickham acknowledged the challenge of stepping into her new role.
“It is challenging, and I don’t think there’s been a female managing a men’s team before, but I see my role as assisting the coaches and players, because we expect a lot of sacrifice from them.
“Part of the job is to ensure their commitment is 100 percent and to support them in every way we can.”
She added that with the Melanesian Cup serving as a qualifier for the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti, the focus is not only on performing well in Honiara but also on building toward long-term success.
“Our goal is to support the players and coaches in qualifying for Tahiti 2027. This tournament is the first step in achieving that.”
“I have met with them and they are a very good group of boys, focused on what they’re doing, and we are looking forward to the upcoming tournament.”
With the Melanesian Cup being staged in the Solomon Islands for the first time, she stressed the need for widespread support.
“We need dedication not only from the staff and teams but also from the wider community. I’m proud to step into this role for the first time, and I look forward to the challenges ahead.”
Women’s team manager Murdoch also shared her excitement.
“I am honored to lead and manage the women’s team. I will do my best to support them both on and off the court. I’m so excited for these games, especially with the Solomon Islands hosting for the first time.”
The final men’s and women’s squads are expected to be announced by the end of the week, with both teams heading into camp soon after.
This year’s Melanesian Cup will see the top two finishers from each category secure direct qualification for the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
