Exceptional Christ’s College basketball player Tama Isaac has been awarded a full scholarship to attend the University of California Irvine, becoming the first person from his father’s wider Cook Islands family to attend university.

Fuelled by a desire to achieve at the highest levels of international basketball and a commitment to inspiring his teammates – both on and off the court – the teenager is already a member of the Tall Blacks and has helped lead College to national title honours. The Old Boy’s aspirations have been empowered by his work ethic and remarkable ability to read a game, alongside his team-first mentality.

“This scholarship means everything to me and my family,” Tama says. “They have worked really hard and sacrificed to provide my brothers and I with great opportunities. My Dad is from the Cook Islands and to find out I am the first from his wider family to go to university – it’s both an absolute privilege and also great to be able to pay back Mum and Dad just a little.

“For my family, it’s just what is best for me and they are so happy to see me continue my growth as a basketball player but also as a leader and better human being. This scholarship also makes me feel like anyone has the ability to go to university – all you need is hard work and discipline.”

A highly selective university, UC Irvine is ranked among the top 10 public universities in the United States. It values academic performance, leadership potential, co-curricular achievements, and diversity when selecting students.

The young point guard has already played five games for the Tall Blacks. In 2024, Tama was also a member of the U18 FIBA Asia Cup All-Star Five. The rising Canterbury Rams star was named MVP at the 2024 New Zealand Secondary Schools Nationals and U20 Nationals after leading both College and Canterbury to success.

One of the most competitive players on the court, Tama has been recognised for his explosive energy, the intensity of his work ethic, and his fierce desire to be a better player. He often stuns his rivals with his skills despite the on-court pressure.

In announcing his signing this month, UC Irvine describes Tama as “an extremely talented young player who has proved himself already in international competition and against older players”.

“Tama is highly competitive and has advanced defensive instincts that make him a great fit for us as a developing point guard who makes his team’s win and his teammates better,” UC Irvine head coach Russell Turner says.

During the 2024 FIBA U18 Asia Cup, Tama averaged 17.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game. The Junior Tall Blacks claimed the silver medal as Isaac posted five 16 or more points performances over the six contests. Additionally, he won the silver medal with the U17 national team at the FIBA U17 Oceania Championship.

Tama has also recently been named in the Junior Tall Blacks to compete at the U19 World Cup in Switzerland.