Cultural heritage the driving force behind First Nations Basketball

A unique tournament is giving young Pacific basketballers the chance to not only connect with their culture but also explore international sporting opportunities.

The founders of Polynesian Basketball, Sefo and Juliet Leusogi-Ape, have created a basketball tournament where culture and heritage are at the heart of the games. The First Nations Basketball Tournament is in its fifth year of running, creating new opportunities for up-and-coming Pacific athletes.

“This platform is for us,” says Sefo Leusogi-Ape

“It's for every kid to come here and know their genealogy and where they're from their culture, and I think that's the point of difference between us and other tournaments.’’

Team Aotearoa. Photo/Polynesian Basketball - Facebook

First Nations Basketball fielded 107 teams across various grades representing countries from the Philippines to Aotearoa. Athletes played over four days of basketball.

One young star, Josh Beattie from Tonga Aotearoa Basketball Association, shares his thoughts on the tournament and his incredible experience.

“I have been playing this tournament for only a year, and my thoughts on the tournament are that it's fun and it's good to get to know more people.’’

Participating teams. Photo/Polynesian Basketball - Facebook

Polynesian Basketball was also created to provide overseas opportunities for young Pacific athletes. Over the years, they have taken teams to the United States to experience what it is like to play and see what’s available. Young Samoan basketballer Krystal Tuliloa is among the many talented athletes who have been afforded the chance to play and attend school in the United States.

“Part of this is creating pathways, you know, to overseas opportunities. That one thing for basketball is just trying to navigate the waters of the USA, trying to send them overseas,’’ says Sefo.

TABA (Top) Evolution (Bottom) Team photo. Photo/Polynesian Basketball - Facebook