Basketball Fiji President Olive Whippy has articulated the organization’s ambitious vision for expanding the sport across the nation while acknowledging several persistent challenges that hinder progress. The primary hurdle remains the ongoing shortage of appropriate venues for play, which continues to be a significant impediment to the development of basketball in Fiji.
As the 2026 season approaches, Whippy emphasizes that Basketball Fiji must adapt to make the best use of the limited facilities at its disposal. Despite these constraints, the focus is on preparing national teams for key international competitions slated for next year.
“Our biggest challenge is finding venues. If there is availability, the venue goes to whoever pays more, even if we have already booked it. So yes, our biggest issue is finding venues to run competitions,” Whippy explained.
Looking ahead, Fiji’s basketball calendar is filled with important international engagements, with two key tournaments in 2026: the Commonwealth Games in Scotland in June and the Asian Games in Japan in September. The enthusiasm surrounding these events underscores the resilience and dedication of the basketball community in Fiji, as they work to overcome challenges and promote the sport at both national and international levels. With continued effort and community support, there remains hope for the growth and success of basketball in Fiji.