Estelle Kainamoli of Fiji has been recognized as the Most Valuable Player of the FIBA Women’s Melanesian Cup 2025, leading her team to a remarkable gold-medal victory in Honiara. Kainamoli’s outstanding performance was pivotal in securing a 57–47 win against Papua New Guinea in the final, allowing Fiji to successfully defend its title and achieve back-to-back victories at the regional tournament.
Throughout the competition, Kainamoli displayed her immense talent, averaging 13.8 points, 9.6 rebounds, 3 assists, 4.6 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game. Highlights of her performance included three double-doubles, most notably a remarkable 23-point, 11-rebound game against New Caledonia in the group stage. In the championship match, she contributed significantly with 12 points, 7 rebounds, and a pivotal 6 steals, cementing her status as one of the leading players in the Pacific.
Kainamoli’s exceptional skills earned her a place in the All-Star Five, where she was joined by teammates such as Bulou Tuisue, alongside Adeline Souque of New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea’s Lynette Tongia and Jackie Asiba. Her achievements in basketball reflect not only her individual prowess but also the growing strength of women’s basketball in the region.
Prior to this triumph, Kainamoli has been making headlines for her performances in other competitions, including her leadership role during the 2023 Pacific Games, where she guided Fiji to a silver medal in the 3×3 basketball event. Currently, she is participating in the inaugural FIBA 3×3 High-Performance Camp in Gold Coast, Australia, a program aimed at enhancing women’s basketball across the Pacific. This initiative brings together over 70 female athletes from 15 national federations, focusing on skill development as well as personal growth.
With her sights set on future competitions, including the upcoming 2025 Mini Games in Palau, Kainamoli is optimistic about the prospective growth of 3×3 basketball in the Pacific. Her enthusiasm embodies a positive outlook towards the sport, showcasing the unifying power of basketball across the region and inspiring other aspiring athletes. Kainamoli’s journey reflects not only her dedication but also the collective aspiration for success among Pacific nations in women’s sports.