When 18-year-old Christina Kasten, a student from Malapoa College, stepped onto the basketball court at the Pacific Mini Games in Palau, she had no idea she was about to make history.

Representing Vanuatu in the women’s 3×3 basketball team, Christina didn’t just show up ,she stood out. She finished the tournament among the top 3 highest scorers in the entire FIBA Youth Nations League , Oceania. Her sharp shooting and consistency helped push Vanuatu into the top 3 rankings for the tournament , a major achievement for the country.

And then came the moment that left her speechless:
Christina was officially selected for the FIBA 3×3 Youth Nations League Oceania Women’s All-Star Three’s Team the only female player from Vanuatu to ever receive this honour.

“I was nervous at first,” Christina admits. “But when I found out I got selected, I was completely speechless. I felt so proud.”

Her coach echoed the emotion: “Her hard work has paid off. She always trains hard, listens, and pushes herself to improve. This recognition is well deserved.”

For a country with limited basketball facilities and resources, Christina’s achievement is no small win. It’s a powerful sign that Vanuatu can compete on the international stage, and that its athletes, especially young women, deserve the spotlight.

Coming from the well-known Kasten basketball family in Port Vila, Christina grew up around the game. She started playing from a young age and developed a playing style that is fast, focused, and fearless. But her journey hasn’t been easy from struggling with a lack of quality courts and training gear in Port Vila to being the few of the girls in a male-dominated game, she’s had to fight her way forward.

“People asked, ‘What does this selection mean? Is she going to play internationally? Get paid?’”

At this stage, the All-Star team is about recognition and exposure. But it’s a massive opportunity, Christina now has her name known by FIBA scouts and international coaches, and it opens doors for future club contracts, scholarships, or pro-level opportunities.

Most importantly, her journey is inspiring girls across Vanuatu. She’s showing them that no dream is too far, no goal too high.

“I want to go further,” Christina says. “Not just for me, but for every young girl out there who thinks she’s not good enough. You are. Keep going.”

Photo Credit: Palau Basketball Federation: