SPORTS MINISTER LAUNCHES POM ELITE BASKETBALL COMP

The local basketball community is buzzing with energy following the official launch of the Port Moresby Elite Basketball (PEB) Competition earlier this week.

The launch, held on Monday 7 April, was officiated by the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science & Technology and Minister for Sport, Hon. Feo Kinoka, alongside Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, signaling strong government backing for the sport’s development.

In his address, Minister Kinoka encouraged young athletes to aim high, noting the global stature of basketball.

“Basketball is amongst the highest-paid sports in the world.”

“If you want to be the best player, you have to work hard for it,” he told an enthusiastic crowd.

Prime Minister Marape also spoke at the event, acknowledging the rapid improvement in local basketball standards.

He called on the Basketball Federation to increase focus on grassroots programs such as school and regional competitions, particularly fostering relationships with teams in Queensland, Australia.

Adding a light-hearted yet heartfelt touch, the Prime Minister expressed his interest in returning to the court, suggesting the introduction of a “golden oldies” division to encourage participation from former players like himself.

Basketball Federation of PNG (BFPNG) President David Peter responded positively, highlighting that such aspirations are already reflected in the Federation’s 2025–2028 Strategic Plan, which was launched three weeks ago.

He confirmed that copies of the plan would be shared with both the Prime Minister’s and the Minister’s offices as requested.

“Although the road ahead is challenging, these are exciting times for basketball in PNG,” Peter said.

“The visit by the Prime Minister, the Sports Minister, and the Vice Minister adds immense value to our mission of growing and professionalizing the sport.”

The launch of the PEB competition represents a crucial step in BFPNG’s broader goal of establishing semi-professional competitions nationwide.

Acknowledgement was given to Competition Director Lawrance Lahari and Chairman David Wereh for spearheading the initiative.

With national leadership visibly backing the sport and strategic plans in place, the stage is set for a transformative era for basketball in Papua New Guinea.