FIBA Oceania Executive Director, Amanda Jenkins has commended the Solomon Islands ‘Friendship Hall’ for its standout role in fostering basketball development in the Pacific region.
While attending the current FIBA Melanesia Cup 2025 and FIBA Women’s Melanesian Cup, Jenkins emphasized the facility’s distinctive qualities, high operational standards and its strong capacity to host events on an international scale.
“It is a really great facility. Having three courts under one roof allows us to run everything smoothly, from games on the show court to team training and logistics,” said Jenkins.
“It is impressive to see the venue still in excellent condition two years after the Pacific Games, especially with the improved air conditioning and well-maintained wooden flooring.”
A Standout Facility in the Pacific
Friendship Hall was originally built for the 2023 Pacific Games and continues to serve as a key venue for sport in Solomon Islands. Amanda Jenkins noted that its three-court layout and ample support infrastructure such as change rooms and offices set it apart from similar venues in the region.
“Some other facilities only have two courts. Once you set up stands for spectators, you are left with just one court. That is not the case here. Friendship Hall is well-sized and ideal for events like this,” added Jenkins.
Infrastructure Key to Basketball Growth
Jenkins emphasized the importance of proper facilities in helping basketball grow across Oceania.
“You cannot promote or develop a sport without a place to play. The wooden court here is especially important for preparing national teams for international competition, where that is the standard surface,” said Jenkins.
“Compared to places in the Pacific, where teams still train on outdoor concrete courts with potholes, Solomon Islands has a real advantage if it continues to be used regularly.”
Future Events on the Horizon
The FIBA Director expressed strong support for future international events being held in Honiara.
“Definitely. I would have no hesitation bringing events like the Youth Oceania Championship here. The facilities and equipment are in excellent condition, it just comes down to maintenance and collaboration between the National Sports Council (NSC) and Solomon Islands Basketball Federation [SIBF],” said Jenkins.
FIBA’s Ongoing Support for Solomon Islands Basketball
FIBA Oceania continues to work closely with SIBF, particularly on grassroots initiatives focused on women and youth.
“We are helping create safe spaces for girls and young women to play, and also working on coach and referee development. This tournament will hopefully inspire a new generation of players,” said Jenkins.
“We have seen a lot of young people attending games, it is up to SIBF to harness that interest.”
About the Tournaments
The FIBA Melanesia Cup and FIBA Women’s Melanesian Cup 2025 are being held in Honiara from October 13–18 at Friendship Hall. Participating nations include Fiji, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.
These tournaments serve as the qualifiers for the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti.
