THE Fiji Basketball under-19 men's and women's teams are playing weekly games to test their combinations before the FIBA Pacific Youth Basketball Championship next month.
The men's team coached by Saula Koroi, has been playing in the Suva/Laucala Basketball League while the women's team has been playing top clubs at Ed's Courts in Raiwaqa.
Guided by Basketball Fiji's development officer Laisiasa Puamau, the women's team is looking at improving its bronze medal win in 2010.
The Saula Koroi-coached men's side is optimistic of improving its eighth position where they finished off in New Caledonia two years ago.
And being drawn in a tough pool with New Zealand, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea, the men's team will rely on its experience and fitness to guide them through to the top eight.
Koroi earlier told Times Sport that fitness would be a key element for his troops. The Isireli Vuetibau-captained side has top players Ulaiasi Koroi, Mataika Koyamainavure and Josaia Qalotaki who have been playing at club level.
Puamau said his women's team has been impressive during their previous matches.
Fiji U19 girl's team: Grace Taito (C), Tiyana Kainamoli, Kelera Koyamainavure, Donnis Kainamoli, Georgina Balenacagi, Maraia Naulivou, Elizabeth Seru, Josifini Fifita, Wilma Cawi.
Fiji U19 men's team: Walter Vanuya, Lorima Sautu, Filimoni Vulimailaucala, Iosefo Taliu, Isireli Vuetibau, Ulaiasi Koroi, George Patterson, Mataika Koyamainavure, Peter Gus, Josaia Qalotaki.