UPNG Basketball Association wraps up season 2026

The University of Papua New Guinea Basketball Association (UPNGBA) concluded its 2026 season on Sunday, August 23rd, at the Premier Learning Institution's Basketball Court.

This year’s participating teams featured UPNG Main Campus, UPNG Medical School, Pacific Adventist University (PAU), Institute of Business Studies University (IBSU), and Port Moresby Business College (PMBC).

The competition ran for a 16-round regular season, followed by a 3-week finals series. In total, the season lasted approximately three to four months, ensuring the schedule didn't clash with exams or public holidays, and providing students with ample time to play without affecting their studies.

Eight (8) teams competed in the male and female divisions, with the IBSU Hammers being crowned the men’s champions and SMHS Medics securing the women’s title.   

In the male division, the IBSU Hammers defeated SNPS Atoms with a score of 58–51, while the SMHS Medics edged out IBSU Hammers with a 45–44 win in the female division. 

UPNG Basketball Association President Agnes Urupua said the competition registered the biggest number of teams this year, saying that the 2026 season has been a success. 

“This was our fourth season, and 8 teams took part in the competition - the most in our history,” the female president explained.  

“We brought together teams from major campuses across Port Moresby, including the Medical School, IBSU, PMBC, and PAU.  

“It was a great season overall. The crowds were huge, the games were exciting, and the standard of basketball was the best. 

“What made this season even more special was seeing teams that didn't usually make it to the finals step up, like the Hammers in the female division and the Atoms in the male division. 

“Their performances showed that the competition is getting stronger and more balanced across the board.

“But more than just the games, this season was about giving students a break from their studies, building friendships, and showcasing the talent we have across all schools. It wasn't perfect, but it was a big step forward for UPNGBA.”

There have been minor issues, but President Urupua said they have managed to complete the season on a high note.

“Overall, the season ran smoothly, and we didn't face any major problems,” she expressed. 

“There were the usual small hiccups – things like coordination between campuses, minor delays on game days, and sometimes miscommunication with team captains about the rules. 

“But we sorted those out quickly. Nothing serious came up, and we are happy with how the season went.”

President Urupua added that she and her executive committee have done well this season and will pass on the leadership responsibility to the incoming executives for the 2027 season.

“I think the 2026 executives have left the association in a good place – bigger, more organized, and more respected than before,” she said. 

“The new team will have a strong foundation to build on, and I'm sure they will take UPNGBA even further.” 

She acknowledged the former president and his executives and thanked the Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea for its continued support. 

“Firstly, I want to thank our former president, Solomon Luman, and the entire 2026 executive committee,” Urupua said.  

“They worked hard the whole season and left the association in a much stronger position. The association is grateful for their commitment.

“We also want to acknowledge the Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG) for their ongoing support. 

“The federation's donation of new backboards for the basketball court this year is very much appreciated. Their guidance has helped us improve the standard of our competition.”

Ms Urupua mentioned that the Beijing New Building Materials (BNBM) pledged to sponsor the winners and runners-up with merchandise. 

“A special thank you goes to our sponsor, Nature Source (BNBM), for pledging to provide merchandise for our winners this season. Their support means a lot to our players and the association,” she said. 

The outgoing president urged more students to participate in the competition next year: “Finally, I'd like to encourage more students to come out and play next season.

“Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting, there's a place for you at UPNGBA. Get involved, represent your school, and be part of something bigger than just basketball.”

Established in 2023 and sanctioned by the Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG) in 2024, the UPNG Basketball Association has delivered four successful seasons and continues to grow.