Team PNG sets sights on U23 World Cup qualification via Pacific Mini Games

The Papua New Guinea Basketball Federation [BFPNG] is gearing up for a critical international campaign as it prepares its 3x3 men’s and women’s teams to compete at the upcoming Pacific Mini Games in Palau, scheduled from June 29 to July 9, 2025.

BFPNG President David Peter has confirmed that the event is a major qualifying pathway for the 3x3 Under-23 World Cup, to be held in China this September, as well as the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

“This is an important event for us,” Peter told NBC News in an exclusive interview.

“The team that wins gold in the U23 3x3 basketball event will qualify for both the World Cup and the Commonwealth Games. We hope that our team can achieve that goal.”

Currently, Papua New Guinea ranks third in Oceania for 3x3 basketball, trailing regional powerhouses Australia and New Zealand.

Peter said these strong regional standings reflect the country's rapid development in the sport and would bolster PNG’s chances on the international stage.

“Our 3x3 stats place us just behind Australia and New Zealand, and that ranking helps position us well for qualification into global competitions,” he said.

“We’re optimistic that a strong performance in Palau will solidify our place among the elite teams and secure our participation in both upcoming international events.”

The final men’s and women’s squads will be announced at the end of May, following a last round of trials in Port Moresby.

The contingent will feature a mix of talent from regional centers, Port Moresby, and Australian-based players.

BFPNG invites all supporters and stakeholders to rally behind Team PNG as they aim to make history on the regional and world stage.