Archives December 2024

CIBA Celebrates International Men’s Day with Inspiring Player Development Camp

In a dynamic celebration of International Men’s Day, the Cayman Islands Basketball Association (CIBA) joined forces with the Family Resource Center to host an unforgettable Player Development Camp. The clinic, led by renowned former NBA scout and trainer Irv Roland, brought together over 60 young athletes for a day filled with skill-building, inspiration, and invaluable life lessons.

Elevating the Game with Irv Roland

Irv Roland, known for his extensive experience working with some of the NBA’s top talents, brought his expertise and passion to the Cayman courts. During the clinic, participants were guided through drills and exercises designed to enhance their basketball fundamentals, from shooting mechanics to court awareness. Roland’s emphasis on hard work, focus, and dedication left a lasting impression on the young athletes, inspiring them to reach for new heights both on and off the court.

A Platform for Growth and Mentorship

The camp was more than just a basketball clinic—it was a platform for mentorship and personal development. Following the on-court session, Roland engaged with the participants in a Q&A session, sharing insights from his career and offering practical advice on overcoming challenges and pursuing dreams. From stories of working with elite players to discussing the importance of character and resilience, the session provided invaluable lessons that resonated with the young athletes.

Celebrating International Men’s Day

This special event, held in honor of International Men’s Day, highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for young men to grow, connect, and thrive. By combining basketball development with life skills education, the camp reinforced the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance—qualities that are essential both on the court and in everyday life.

CIBA’s Commitment to Youth Development

CIBA’s collaboration with the Family Resource Center for this event underscores the association’s commitment to empowering the youth of the Cayman Islands. By hosting events like the Player Development Camp, CIBA continues to provide young athletes with access to world-class training and mentorship, helping to nurture the next generation of leaders and players.

A Bright Future Ahead

The success of the camp is a testament to the power of collaboration and the potential of Cayman’s youth. To all the players who participated, thank you for bringing your energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to the court. And to Irv Roland, thank you for sharing your expertise and inspiring our young athletes to dream big.

As CIBA looks ahead to future initiatives, events like this Player Development Camp remind us of the incredible impact we can have when we come together to invest in our youth. Here’s to building brighter futures, one game at a time.

CaymanBasketball #InternationalMensDay #PlayerDevelopment #YouthEmpowerment

Another Successful Junior NBA Week

The week of November 16th was nothing short of extraordinary as the Junior NBA Week returned for its second consecutive year, bringing together young basketball enthusiasts for a celebration of sport, community, and empowerment. The Cayman Islands Basketball Association (CIBA) once again played a pivotal role in the success of the event, cementing its commitment to the growth and development of youth basketball in the Cayman Islands. DART and the Junior NBA have a partnership agreement for the event while CIBA helps to run the event and garner participation.

“Her Rules, Her Way”: Empowering Girls Through Basketball

One of the highlights of the week was the “Her Rules, Her Way” Clinic, which saw over 60 girls come together to develop their skills, build confidence, and embrace the joy of basketball. The clinic provided a supportive environment for these young female athletes, focusing on fundamental techniques, teamwork, and fostering a love for the game. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of creating opportunities for girls to thrive in sports and showcased a dedication to inclusivity and empowerment.

Fun, Fierce, and Fiery: The 3×3 Competitions

The courts came alive with energy as more than 50 boys and girls 3×3 teams hit the hardwood for some friendly yet fierce competition. The fast-paced format kept players and spectators alike on the edge of their seats, with each game displaying remarkable talent, teamwork, and sportsmanship. From nail-biting finishes to unforgettable plays, the 3×3 competitions were a true testament to the passion for basketball that runs deep in our community.

CIBA’s Dedication to Youth Basketball

CIBA’s officials collectively contributed over 300 volunteer hours during the week—a remarkable effort that underscores the association’s unwavering dedication to fostering the next generation of athletes. From refereeing games to helping ensure the smooth execution of the tournament, CIBA’s team went above and beyond to make the week a resounding success.

This marks the second consecutive year that CIBA has been instrumental in bringing the event to life. Their continued support has not only helped elevate the level of play but also reinforced the role of basketball as a powerful tool for youth development in the Cayman Islands.

Building a Brighter Future Through Basketball

The success of Junior NBA Week is a reflection of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision. By empowering young athletes, promoting inclusivity, and fostering a love for the game, CIBA is helping to build a brighter future for basketball in the Cayman Islands.

To all the players, parents, coaches, and volunteers who made the event possible, thank you for your commitment and passion. And to the young athletes who took to the courts, congratulations on your achievements—you are the future of basketball in the Cayman Islands.

As we look forward to the next Junior NBA Week, let’s continue to support and celebrate the incredible potential of youth basketball. Together, we’re making history, one dribble at a time.

#JuniorNBA #CaymanBasketball #HerRulesHerWay #YouthBasketball

Cayman’s National Esports Team: A Season to Remember in the EFIBA Tournament

In a remarkable display of skill, passion, and determination, the Cayman Islands Basketball Association’s (CIBA) National Esports Team made history in their second season of the EFIBA Tournament. Competing on the global stage against some of the world’s best, including powerhouses like the USA, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, and Mexico, our team demonstrated that Cayman’s presence in the esports basketball scene is one to watch.

A Journey of Growth and Achievement

This year’s tournament proved to be an unforgettable journey. The team, consisting of Cayman’s finest virtual basketball talents (Franz Manderson Jr, Noel Squire, Jovan Lee, Cameron Hyde and Shaad O’Garro), showed grit and determination throughout the competition. Facing seasoned opponents in the Americas Region, they not only held their own but also made history by advancing to the second round of the FIBA Americas Zone—a monumental achievement for the Cayman Islands in esports.

Their performance in the second round was nothing short of inspiring. In a nail-biting matchup against the Dominican Republic, our team came within striking distance of victory, narrowly missing out on progressing further. The game was a testament to their growth, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level and challenge the best in the world.

Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead

While the loss to the Dominican Republic was a heartbreaking end to their 2024 campaign, it also fueled the team’s hunger for more. Each game brought valuable lessons, sharpening their strategies, enhancing their teamwork, and solidifying their resolve to come back stronger.

The team’s journey this season has inspired a new wave of esports enthusiasts in the Cayman Islands, proving that with dedication and hard work, even a small nation can make a big impact on the global stage. Their historic advancement in the tournament has set a benchmark for future Cayman teams and has laid the foundation for an even brighter future in the esports arena.

Eyes on Season 3

As the team reflects on their achievements and prepares for the next chapter, all eyes are on Season 3 of the EFIBA Tournament in 2025. With a year to train, refine their skills, and build on the momentum of this season, the team is more determined than ever to take their game to new heights.

The support from the Cayman community has been instrumental in their journey, and as they gear up for the next season, they will continue to rely on the encouragement of fans, sponsors, and the wider CIBA network. Together, we can help propel Cayman’s esports team to even greater success.

Thank You, Cayman!

To the fans who tuned in, cheered, and supported the team, thank you for being part of this historic journey. Your unwavering belief in our athletes makes all the difference. Let’s continue to rally behind our National Esports Team as they aim for greatness in the seasons to come.

The future is bright for Cayman esports. Bring on Season 3!

Cayman Teams Head to the 3×3 AmeriCup

Today marks an exciting journey for the Cayman Islands National men and women 3×3 basketball teams as they head to Puerto Rico for the prestigious 3×3 AmeriCup. This tournament is a golden opportunity for our athletes to shine on the international stage, showcasing their skills and competing against some of the best teams in the Americas.

The women’s team, featuring Khailan O’Connor, Lashawntae Robinson, Courtisha Ebanks, and Arleny Ebanks, is set to face formidable opponents from Cuba, Costa Rica, and Guatemala. These talented women have been training tirelessly, and their recent performances have shown they are ready to take on the challenge.

On the men’s side, Davion Cotterell, Kwei General, Shaad O’Garro, Borislav D’Jordjic, and Alexander Thompson will compete against teams from Aruba, Guyana, and Haiti. Each player brings unique strengths to the team, and together, they form a cohesive unit that has been performing exceptionally well in recent competitions.

Their participation in the AmeriCup is not just a testament to their hard work and dedication but also a source of immense pride for the Cayman Islands. As they step onto the court in Puerto Rico, they carry with them the hopes and support of their entire nation.