New Caledonia finishes at the 6th spot in Samoa

Latoya Wily

New Caledonia - Samoa 54:72
New Caledonia National team completed their South Pacific Games campaign. They faced hosting Samoa in the game for the 5th spot. New Caledonia did not manage to upset the home side and lost the battle. Samoa looked solid during the game and deservedly celebrated victory. Samoa took the initiative early on and drove to a 20:10 lead after the first frame. New Caledonia tried to stay close in the second but the gap still grew to 40:25 at halftime. The game then turned pretty close and New Caledonia were able to slow the host down. However it never helped them to cut the deficit. Samoa widely stuck to their advantage and rolled to an overall win. Latoya Wily (183-C-86) and Artevia Wily led well-balanced Samoan offense with 16 points apiece. Anny Soliai added 13 points for the winners. Yolande Luepack replied with game-high 22 points for New Caledonia. Marie-rose Ofatuku had 12 points and 10 boards in a loss.
New Caledonia were outrebounded 43:71. They shot just 27% from the field and 50% from free throw line.
New Caledonia ended the tournament with a 1-6 record.

New Caledonia: Yolande Luepack 22, Marie-rose Ofatuku 12+10 boards
Samoa: Latoya Wily 16, Artevia Wily 16