THE Head Coach of Solomon Islands Men’s Basketball Team Bryce Masaea has expressed appreciation for his team’s performance in the Sol2023 Pacific Games against Guam despite their loss.
The Solomon Islands Men’s Basketball Team was defeated by Guam in an 87-53 goal margin match at the Friendship Hall in front of a cheering home crowd.
Masaea acknowledged that despite losing the match, his team have shown great improvement in the level of their performance and expressed appreciation to all his players for their great effort.
He said the match showed there is still room for improvement and they will work on this.
“It’s just the start. If we keep on going forward with strong resolve, we can further improve going forward,” Masaea added.
“I commend my team players for their exceptional effort in spite of the difficulties they faced in winning their opponent who are more experienced and well-known worldwide,” he further added.
The Solomon Islands Men’s Basketball Team exited the men’s basketball medal competition after their loss to Guam on Tuesday night.
Today, they will take on Tonga at 12pm for the 7th and 8th placements in the men’s basketball competition.
The Solomon Islands Men’s Basketball Team Head Coach also expressed appreciation to the people who showed up in large numbers to support the team in its match against Guam
He drew attention to how important it is for responsible authorities to provide full support to basketball to further develop the sport.
Masaea also underlined how important it is to send the players abroad to experience international competitions and return with invaluable experience that will improve their performance in future competitions.
He urged that young players be put on a proper development path and early training of athletes in preparations for the next Pacific Games and other tournaments.
Head Coach Masaea recommended the establishment of a basketball academy and emphasized that this endeavour would need the backing of appropriate authorities.
He also raised the importance of responsible authourities providing funding for the development of basketball.
By CLAUDINA MELVIA
Solomon Star, Honiara
