Thaman applauds Nainima’s success

Valerie Nainima is a special person and has unique talent, says USP professor and Fiji basketball supporter Randy Thaman. Thaman said Nainima is the first Fijian female to play in Division One competition and doing well at that in the United States. On Sunday, Nainima was top try scorer in the defeat of favorite Alabama 80-68.In 2009, Nainima was ranked third in the SEC and 30th in the nation in scoring with 18.6 ppg. Last month she was voted AgSouth Athlete of the Week. “If she keeps at it and keeps believing in herself she could even play in the Womens' National Basketball Association League,” said Thaman. “She is probably the best Fijian player to come out of university sports level. No one has achieved the height she has achieved in quality competition. She is a special person with such unique talent.” Thaman said her rise in the ranks speaks much about the kind of person Nainima is. “She is a very determined and hardworking person, always keen to improve on her game every second time she plays on the court.” “Nainima did so well while Long Island University in Division Two competition and was top try scorer there. Her impressive performance earned her promotion to Division One competition and a place at the South Carolina Gamecocks University where they play against some of the best teams in the nation. “She has continued her winning ways with the South Carolina based university team and is the current top scorer. This is a huge effort for Nainima and something we should all be proud of.” “One of Fiji's own making a name for her and putting the country's name in world map with her achievements.” In her latest SEC game played last Sunday, Nainima was top try scorer in the defeat of favorite Alabama side 80-68.

The Fiji Sun Online

13th December, 2010




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