Overview:
Jerry Ngiraremiang never entered the Micro Cup expecting an All-Star selection. He simply focused on playing his best, enjoying the game and representing home — making his selection to the All-Star Five an even more meaningful achievement.
By Laurel Marewibuel
KOROR, Palau (Aug. 24, 2026) — For Jerry Ngiraremiang, being named to the Micro Cup All-Star Five was an unexpected honor — and one he says belongs as much to his teammates as it does to him.
Ngiraremiang said he was surprised to be selected among the tournament’s top five players, given the number of talented athletes competing.
“I didn’t think I would make the top five because there were a lot of other players who could easily qualify to be in the top five,” Ngiraremiang said.
The recognition became more meaningful because of the work his team put in throughout the competition. Rather than treating the honor as an individual accomplishment, Ngiraremiang pointed to the sacrifices, commitment and effort shared by his teammates.
“The sacrifices and hard work we made as a team made the moment special to me personally,” he said.
Ngiraremiang said earning an All-Star spot was never his goal entering the tournament. His focus was on playing his best, contributing to the team and enjoying the opportunity to compete.
“There was never really a moment where I felt like I earned a spot in the top five,” Ngiraremiang said. “I just played at my best and enjoyed playing as a team.”
Representing his home island added another layer of pride to the experience. Ngiraremiang said wearing the uniform was an honor, particularly while representing his home alongside fellow player Wallace Worswick.
“Putting on the uniform is always an honor to represent where I’m from alongside Wallace Worswick,” he said.
The All-Star recognition also gave Ngiraremiang an opportunity to reflect on the example athletes can set for younger players.
He said he hopes his performance inspires young basketball players to work hard, play to their full potential and take pride in representing their island.
“I hope to encourage young players to play at their best and to represent our island to their full potential,” he said.
For Ngiraremiang, the Micro Cup honor ultimately represents more than a place among the tournament’s top players. It reflects the teamwork, sacrifice and determination behind the competition — as well as the pride that comes with representing home on the basketball court.