Vanuatu’s 3-on-3 basketball teams returned to the court yesterday at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau, both teams — men’s and women’s — won one match each and lost two matches against strong opponents like Papua New Guinea.

The sport has grown steadily in Vanuatu since it was introduced during the 2017 Pacific Mini Games, which the country hosted. That year, the Vanuatu women’s team took home a bronze medal, making history on home soil.

The national teams have remained active, participating again in Saipan 2022 and now continuing their regional presence in Palau 2025.

Despite the early challenges, the teams remain focused on building momentum as competition continues through the week.