BASKETBALL Federation PNG has introduced a new concept ‘Golden Oldies’ to drive an active competition for seniors within the ages of 45 years and above.

President David Peter said the new competition which officially launched its first match coinciding with the Pom Elite Basketball matches on Tuesday is expected to feature 16 men and women’s teams.

“The Federation is excited to launch and drive this competition. It’s about the people who have the passion for basketball and also highlights the importance of staying active and healthy at any age.”

“We want to send a message out to everyone that basketball is a sport that people of all ages, families, kids, everybody can participate. It’s a sport where both men and women can play.”

“It’s a sport where there is non-discrimination of race, gender, religious alignment or political alignment.”

He said in line with this concept the launching during the week saw an exciting match of 10 minutes which featured PNG Prime Minister James Marape, former Alotau MP and BFPNG Patron Charles Abel, PEB Director Lawrence Lahari to name a few.

The Prime Minister’s team ‘The Next 40’ went up against PNGs iconic basketball legends referred to as the ‘1991 Golden Boys’ led by current 5×5 national coach Moi Muri.

“Bringing the Golden Oldies to fruition is like bringing back our legends of the game back into the courts.”

“I spoke to coach Muri after the game and he said this was one of the most emotional events for him having to play alongside his former team mates…that rekindled that passion and that gave them the memory, the good memories that they have together as brothers and friends on the court,” Peter added.

Meanwhile following the golden oldies launch on Tuesday evening, PM Marape said the concept was to promote healthy living into the next 40 years.

He was also privileged to play against the PNG basketball legends.

“The golden oldies is all about fun and healthy lifestyle and what a privilege it was to play against the legends.”

“I remember back in 1991, when I was a second-year student from UPNG. I sat among the audience to watch then PNG Mens Basketball team win Gold during the 1991 South Pacific Games in Port Moresby.”

He said such moments of sports brings joy to PNG as the country looks forward to celebrating its 50^th golden jubilee on September 16.