The American Samoa Basketball Association 2013 Flag Day tournament ended last Saturday with Mesepa ‘Sonics’ basketball team clinching first place, which came with a Trophy and other recognition, while second place went to 'Ninjaz' team and third to the 'Breakers'.

ASBA secretary-treasurer Diehl Langkilde told Samoa News that the tournament attracted seven men’s teams while no women’s team registered this time around. The tournament began last month and was held every Saturday at the American Samoa Community College Gymnasium.

“It was a huge success for the association and teams that participated this year,” said Langkilde, who expressed sincere appreciation to everyone who made this year’s event a greater one than the years before. “We look forward to next year’s tournament with the hope that more teams will take part as well as a women’s division tournament.”

He also acknowledged the great contribution and support from the Department of Youth and Women’s Affairs, which donated trophies.

Langkilde pointed out that these tournaments are sanctioned by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) of Oceania, which recognizes these games and allows American Samoa to participate in future FIBA Oceania games.

He said results of this tournament and all future tournaments will be transmitted to FIBA Oceania, which will then post the results on their website.

The next local basketball association tournament is being planned for October during the week-long Moso’oi festival and officials hopes that a woman’s team will participate.

Prior to the Moso'oi tournament, the association will host in partnership with the Department of Parks and Recreation a summer basketball clinic for youth, with more details to be announced soon.

“One of the main goals for the new executive board of the association is to work with our youth to develop basketball, with the support of the community and government,” said Langkilde in an interview. “This is one way to keep our youth occupied during the summer when school is out.”

Besides the top three teams for the Flag Day tournament, other awards handed out included the MVP of the Championship, Vailili Malauulu; Tournament Overall MVP, T.J Leota and Coach of the Tournament went to the Mesepa Sonics.