Estelle Kainamoli from Fiji has earned the title of Most Valuable Player at the FIBA Women’s Melanesian Cup 2025, leading her team to a significant gold-medal triumph in Honiara. Her exceptional play was crucial in Fiji’s 57–47 victory against Papua New Guinea during the finals, enabling Fiji to defend its title and achieve back-to-back wins at the regional tournament.
Throughout the competition, Kainamoli showcased her remarkable skills, averaging impressive statistics of 13.8 points, 9.6 rebounds, 3 assists, 4.6 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game. Key highlights of her performance included three double-doubles, particularly a standout game where she scored 23 points and grabbed 11 rebounds against New Caledonia in the group stage. In the championship match, she played a critical role, contributing 12 points, 7 rebounds, and securing 6 steals, which further solidified her reputation as a leading player in the Pacific basketball scene.
Kainamoli’s achievements have also earned her a spot in the All-Star Five, alongside her teammates Bulou Tuisue and other standout players such as Adeline Souque from New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea’s Lynette Tongia and Jackie Asiba. Her success is not only a testament to her talent but also highlights the increasing strength and popularity of women’s basketball within the region.
Before this victory, Kainamoli had made headlines for her pivotal role during the 2023 Pacific Games, where she helped Fiji secure a silver medal in the 3×3 basketball event. Currently, she is attending the inaugural FIBA 3×3 High-Performance Camp in Gold Coast, Australia, which aims to enhance the skills of female athletes across the Pacific. This camp hosts over 70 female participants from 15 different national federations, focusing on not only basketball techniques but also personal development.
Looking ahead, Kainamoli is focused on future competitions, including the upcoming 2025 Mini Games in Palau. Her optimistic perspective reflects a broader commitment to the growth of 3×3 basketball in the Pacific and serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the region. Kainamoli’s journey epitomizes the dedication and shared aspirations of Pacific nations in the realm of women’s sports, demonstrating the unifying potential of basketball as a catalyst for success and empowerment.