The Vodafone Fiji Cup was officially launched at the Vodafone headquarters in Tamavua, Suva, yesterday. The tournament makes a return after a lapse of two years and the three-day event is set to take place at Suva’s FMF Gymnasium from March 13–15. Speaking at the launch, Vodafone sponsorship manager Adriu Vakarau said their organisation was excited to be the new sponsor for the Basketball Fiji Cup. “We wish all the teams that will participate this week, the very best,” he said. “Vodafone is looking forward to this competition and the secondary schools competition later in the year.” Basketball Fiji president Olive Whippy said the sponsorship would allow the elite teams to compete with the aim to improve their performance. “As I’ve come on board, I’ve seen that the level of competition has really risen, and we want get more people to play basketball,” she said. “I can see the desire is there and through sponsorship like Vodafone, we can achieve what we set out to do.” Whippy acknowledged Vodafone for their sponsorship in the exposure and development of basketball players in the country. “We’re in a process of putting together a strategic plan and I like to share that plan with you. “Also, with how Vodafone can assist us in achieving our plans,” the former Fiji rep said. “I see basketball as the next biggest sport compared to rugby in the country.” Basketball Fiji chief operating officer Wiliam Peters said 16 teams in the country would compete at the Fiji Cup tournament. “We’ve got top eight men’s and women’s teams making a total of 16 teams,” he said. “We are expecting a big crowd to come in and I know that a lot of the fans will be raring to see our teams in action.” The entry fee is $5 while children Under-12 can go in free. Feedback: ioane.asioli@fijisun.com.fj