POHNPEI (Federated States of Micronesia) - The Federated States of Micronesia marked an important milestone in its basketball development with the Federated States of Micronesia Olympic Committee (FSMNOC) and FSM Basketball coordinating a six‑day Olympic Solidarity Technical Coach Course focused on 3x3.
Seventeen local coaches took part in the program, signalling a renewed commitment to strengthening community pathways, building national federation capacity, and positioning FSM for future opportunities on FIBA's international stage.
Their leadership anchored a week designed to advance FIBA’s strategic priorities across Oceania: Empowering National Federations, expanding 3x3 as a growth engine for emerging nations, and supporting grassroots development. The course brought together coaches who are actively delivering basketball activities through schools, youth programs, and community courts, giving them practical tools to grow the game in environments where accessibility and adaptability matter most.
“This course was exactly what our coaches needed,” said FSM President Benjamin Peterson. “Coach Smith brought the right mix of knowledge, energy, and passion to help lift the level of 3x3 here in FSM. Our coaches felt motivated, supported, and genuinely empowered throughout the week. "
FIBA in Oceania 3x3 coach facilitator Jayden Smith, who previously took part in the inaugural FIBA in Oceania 3x3 High Performance Camp in 2023, led the sessions and described the week as a breakthrough moment for FSM.
You could feel the energy from day one.
The coaches were hungry to learn, and they picked up the core concepts of 3x3 incredibly quickly. It’s a format that really suits FSMs style, fast, uncomplicated, and easy to run anywhere.
Jayden explained that the group adapted well to the decision‑making demands of 3x3. “Once they understood spacing and advantage creation, everything opened up. You could see their confidence grow with every session. They started coaching with real clarity, and that’s what will make the biggest difference moving forward.”
For Jayden, the course was not only about technical development but about strengthening the federation’s long‑term capacity. “Empowering coaches is how you empower a federation,” he said. “If coaches feel confident, organised, and connected, the whole system lifts. FSM has the right people, they just needed the opportunity to build together.”
He also highlighted the community‑driven nature of the group.
“These coaches care deeply about their young people. They’re not just teaching basketball, they are creating safe spaces, building confidence, and giving kids something to belong to. That’s where 3x3 can have a huge impact.”
The six days in Pohnpei represent more than a coaching course, they mark a moment where strategic investment, community passion, and regional collaboration came together to build real momentum for FSM basketball. With ongoing support from FIBA, the FIBA Foundation, and Olympic Solidarity, FSM now has a stronger platform to grow the game, empower its coaches, and inspire young players across the islands.
"We’re really grateful to Coach Smith, FIBA Oceania, and Olympic Solidarity for giving us this opportunity to grow," concluded FSM President, Benjamin Peterson.
About Olympic Solidarity
Olympic Solidarity supports National Olympic Committees around the world by providing funding, training opportunities, and development programs that strengthen sport pathways at every level. Through targeted initiatives like Technical Courses for Coaches, Olympic Solidarity helps nations build sustainable coaching structures, improve athlete preparation, and expand access to quality sport education.
Its mission is to ensure that all NOCs can grow their sporting systems, develop local expertise, and create meaningful opportunities for future generations.