The tournament is a week long event that will showcase some of the best basketballing talent from the pacific.

Samoa's referees that are going to New Zealand will be on a sharp learning curve. Over the week they will receive game evaluations on most games that they referee, education sessions and the opportunity to referee with experienced referees from other Pacific Islands.

The Samoan officials will be similarly busy. They will have to work hard to gain a detailed knowledge of scoring, statistics and game administration. Of course they will have the experience of the FIBA Oceania team to help them along the way.  

But the tournament is not just about the basketball. It's also about providing a cultural experience for all participants. Every participating country is asked to prepare a cultural presentation. At the last tournament New Zealand performed a traditional 'Haka' while the Australian contingent put on the well known heel-n-toe polka. What will happen this time around is anyone's guess but regardless I'm sure it'll be exciting.

The tournament will no doubt be a resounding success. Stay tuned to www.fibaoceania.com for all the up to date information including scores and statistics.