FIBA Women’s U17 Oceania Cup: New Zealand edged out Samoa

Samoa - New Zealand 51-57

New Zealand edged out Samoa 57–51 in a hard-fought contest at the FIBA Women’s U17 Oceania Cup, relying on a strong first half to secure the win. The Junior Tall Ferns jumped ahead early with an 18–9 opening quarter and extended their advantage with a solid 17-point second period to take a comfortable halftime lead. Samoa battled back with determination, matching New Zealand’s intensity and posting 14 points in each of the final three quarters, gradually chipping away at the deficit. New Zealand’s scoring slowed in the second half, but their early cushion proved decisive as they held off Samoa’s late push.
Lily Ashton (183-F-2008) top-scored for the winners with 12 points and Keija Miringaorangi (175-G-2008) added 8. Marley Sialeipata (176-SG-2009) replied with 20 points in a loss.