Image via: Eric Paul Goldie
After making his debut in Round 9, Jonah Palelei has made international headlines as the next player to represent the nation of Togna – a Polynesian kingdom south of Fiji.
As the COVID lockdowns shut down the nation in 2020, Paleli re-discovered his motivation for basketball, with Hall of Famer and Western Australian legend Andy Stewart.
The four-time champion and five-time SBL Coach of the Year took Palelei under his wing, leading to his recent debut in the NBL1 West.
“Having Andy train with me during lockdown was really a turning point for me, I was ready to throw in the towel and had lost my passion for the game,” Palelei told FIBA Basketball.
“We trained most days, and it reignited my passion for basketball and in a way, it started this journey I’m now on, playing NBL1 with the Cockburn Cougars and representing Tonga at the Pacific Games last year.”
He explained that his motivation now is driven by his family, a tribute to their unwavering support throughout his life.
Averaging 5.5 points this season in 9.5 minutes per game, Palelei’s impact has immediately been felt for the Cockburn Cougars.
By joining one of the premier clubs in the conference, he has a place to grow his game and become an inspiration to Polynesian basketballers.
"I want to be a pioneer, to inspire the next generation of Polynesians,” he said.
"I'm willing to give my all to push the team forward until the next generation takes the torch.”
Read the full story by FIBA Basketball here.
The Cougars will take on the Goldfields Giants on Saturday, streaming live from 8:00pm AWST live via NBL1.com.au or the NBL1 App.
