Archives 2025

🏀 Cayman U23 Teams Set for FIBA 3×3 Nations League in Chile

The Cayman Islands Basketball Association (CIBA) is proud to announce that our U23 Men’s and Women’s National 3×3 Teams will compete in the FIBA U23 3×3 Nations League – Americas Conference from July 21–27 in Punta Arenas, Chile.

This marks another historic step forward for Cayman basketball as our young athletes prepare to face off against some of the top basketball nations in the region, including the USA, Canada, Argentina, and host country Chile.

🇰🇾 U23 Men’s National 3×3 Team – Roster

  • Nathaniel Hurlston-Anderson (Captain)
  • Bryan Ebanks
  • Alwin Buttrum Jr.
  • Toure Montague
  • Umar Gordon
  • Brad Lansdell

This explosive group brings a strong mix of international experience, size, and athleticism to the floor. With Hurlston and Ebanks’ experience leading the charge, the men’s team is prepared to compete with intensity and pride.

🇰🇾 U23 Women’s National 3×3 Team – Roster

  • Lyandrea Watson (Captain)
  • Annika Moore
  • Jamie Rankin-Maize
  • Soleya Manzanares
  • Bethany Ebanks

Led by Watson’s leadership and Annika Moore’s dynamic scoring ability, the women’s team is entering the tournament with confidence and momentum after a strong showing in recent 3×3 competitions.

🌍 A Global Stage for Cayman’s Rising Stars

The FIBA U23 3×3 Nations League is one of the premier international development competitions, offering emerging stars from across the globe the chance to gain elite exposure and compete at the highest level of 3×3 basketball.

“This is not just about representing Cayman; it’s about showing the world the talent we’re growing right here at home,” said Coach Duran Whittaker. “Our athletes have worked hard, and we’re excited to see them compete on this platform.”

📺 Watch Live + Follow the Journey

All games will be streamed live through FIBA’s digital platforms. Be sure to follow @345basketball on Instagram and Facebook for:

  • 🎥 Live game links
  • 📸 Player highlights
  • 🎙️ Postgame interviews
  • 📊 Stats and results

Hoop Fest 2025 Wrap-Up: Cayman U17 Storm Crowned Undisputed Champions

July 5, 2025 – George Town, Grand Cayman
The 2025 Cayman Islands Hoop Fest came to a thrilling close on Saturday evening with two final matchups that solidified team standings and showcased elite youth basketball talent from the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, and the United States.

🕔 Game 1: Texas Tigers Run Wild in Offensive Showcase

The first game of Day 3 saw the Texas Tigers explode offensively, defeating the Cayman Bulldogs by a staggering 115–46 at John Gray High School Gymnasium.

Texas guard Cino Nagin put on a clinic, dropping a tournament-high 53 points while shooting nearly 70% from the field and sinking five 3-pointers. He was supported by Jeremiah Thirdkill (35 pts, 18 rebounds) and EJ Allen (21 pts, 22 rebounds), as the Tigers dominated the glass and forced 17 turnovers.

Despite the loss, the Bulldogs fought hard behind Drayson Da Costa’s 12 points and Demarco Wood’s effort in the paint.

🕖 Game 2: Cayman U17 Storm Closes Tournament Undefeated

In the tournament finale, the Cayman U17 Storm capped off a perfect 3–0 record with a commanding 84–53 win over Campion College of Jamaica.

Tournament MVP Daric Ebanks led the charge once again with 28 points, including six 3-pointers. He was flanked by Amari Latham (17 pts, 13 rebounds, 3 blocks) and George Brooks (10 pts, 11 rebounds, 8 assists), who delivered a complete performance on both ends of the floor.

Campion’s Richard Leighton closed his tournament strong with 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Ryheem Martel added 14 points and 12 rebounds and 5 steals in a physical battle inside.

🏆 Final Standings:

  1. Cayman U17 Storm (3–0) – 🏆 Champions
  2. Texas Tigers (2–1)
  3. Campion College Crocs (1–2)
  4. Cayman Bulldogs (0–3)

⭐ All-Tournament Team:

🏆 MVP: Daric Ebanks – Cayman U17 Storm
Cino Nagin – Texas Tigers
Rheem Martel – Campion College
Amari Latham – Cayman U17 Storm
Jeremiah Thirdkill – Texas Tigers

🙌 A Tournament to Remember

The inaugural Cayman Islands Hoop Fest not only delivered exciting international basketball but also provided valuable development opportunities for Cayman’s national athletes and a powerful display of community support. The atmosphere at both The ARC and John Gray Gym was electric throughout the weekend, with fans, families, and fellow athletes rallying behind their teams.

Special thanks go to the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage, Cost-U-Less, Dynamic Sports & Events, One Sports Cayman and all volunteers, referees, table officials, and coaches who helped make this event a success.

The Cayman Islands Champion Team: Daric Ebanks, Amari Latham, Griff MacDonald, Obrien Wilson, Teran Timoll, Teroy Timoll, Liam Ramoon, Dimitri Seymour, Kaden Barboram, George Brooks and Naziah Webb.

Amari Latham
Cino Nagin
Daric Ebanks
Jeremiah Thirdkill
Ryheem Martel
Day 1 Recap: Cayman Islands Hoop Fest Tips Off with Passion, Pride, and Big Plays

July 3, 2025 – Camana Bay, Grand Cayman
The energy was electric on opening night of the Cayman Islands Hoop Fest, as fans packed the Arts & Recreation Center (ARC) to witness high-level U17 basketball featuring national pride, international flair, and raw talent on full display.

Game 1: Campion College (Jamaica) Tops Cayman Bulldogs, 67–42

The first matchup of the evening saw Campion College Crocs 🇯🇲 set the tone early with aggressive defense and fast-break execution, ultimately pulling away to secure a 67–42 win over the Cayman Bulldogs.

Despite the loss, the Bulldogs showed grit and heart. Delroy Irvine III led the team with 10 points and 9 rebounds, while Dwight Hewitt Jr. contributed 6 points and 11 rebounds. Campion’s balanced team effort was anchored by Ryheem Martel, who delivered 14 points, 5 rebounds, and a stunning 13 steals.

🔥 “Campion’s defensive intensity was the difference-maker,” said a fan in attendance. “They came to play.”

Game 2: Cayman U17 Storm Overpowers Texas Tigers, 84–68

In the headline game of the night, the Cayman U17 Storm stormed the court with poise and purpose, defeating the Texas Tigers 🇺🇸 84–68.

Griffin Macdonald lit it up from beyond the arc, dropping 23 points and sinking 5 three-pointers. Daric Ebanks had a dominant all-around game with 22 points, 4 steals, 4 assists and 9 rebounds, while Obrien Wilson dominated the paint with 17 boards and 10 points. The Storm’s 58 total rebounds and 78% shooting from the free-throw line proved too much for Texas, despite an impressive 30-point performance from Jeremiah Thirdkill.

“We came out ready. We wanted to protect home court — and we did just that,” said U17 head coach Jonathan Powery.

🗓 What’s Next?

Fans won’t have to wait long for more action:

📅 July 4 – ARC (Camana Bay)
• 6:00 PM – Texas Tigers vs Campion College
• 8:00 PM – Cayman U17 Storm vs Cayman Bulldogs

🎟️ Tickets:
• CI $10/day (Adults)
• CI $5/day (Kids under 10)
• CI $25 – All-Tournament Pass

🎫 Get tickets now at: www.caymanbasketball.com

🏀 2025 PwC U16 League Finals Recap: Champions Rise Under the Lights

The 2025 PwC U16 Basketball League came to a thrilling close on June 18 at John Gray High School, where fans witnessed two exciting championship showdowns that showcased the next generation of Cayman’s basketball talent.

👑 Girls Division Final

Infinity 79 – WOV Courage 37

In the opening game of the night, Infinity delivered a dominant all-around performance to claim the PwC U16 Girls Championship.

Jessica Dawson was simply unstoppable, leading all scorers with 34 points and pulling down 16 rebounds in a Finals MVP-worthy performance. She was backed by Naomi Welcome, who added 19 points and 10 rebounds, and Naima Myles, who poured in 16 points of her own.

Infinity’s defensive pressure and rebounding edge kept WOV Courage off balance for most of the game. Still, Mia DaCosta stood tall for Courage, contributing 18 points and 13 rebounds, while Zerah Allen and Hailey Gutierrez chipped in key buckets.

“Infinity came in focused, and they left no doubt. Their chemistry, hustle, and execution were elite from start to finish.”

👑 Boys Division Final

SKL Blades 70 – Shockwaves 62

The Boys Championship brought intensity, passion, and highlight-reel plays as the SKL Blades edged out a relentless Shockwaves team to win the PwC U16 Boys title.

Delroy Irvine III led the way for the Blades with 22 points and 8 rebounds, while Naziah Webb controlled the glass and the scoreboard with 20 points and 10 boards. Daniel Burnett also made his mark, adding 11 points and an incredible 8 steals, setting the defensive tone.

The Shockwaves put up a fierce fight, led by Adrian Lewis, who finished with 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 steals. Liam Ramoon added 11 points, and Dwight Hewitt Jr. anchored the defense with 3 blocks and a perfect shooting night.

Despite a strong team effort, turnovers and free-throw struggles (28% FT) proved costly for Shockwaves down the stretch.

“The Blades played with heart and discipline. They made key plays when it mattered most and earned every bit of this title.”

💼 Sponsored by PwC

CIBA extends its deepest gratitude to PwC Cayman Islands for their continued investment in youth development. The PwC U16 League has once again proven to be a launching pad for future stars — on and off the court.

Hoop Fest is Here

The Cayman Islands Basketball Association (CIBA) is proud to announce the launch of the Cayman Islands Hoop Fest, an exciting new international youth basketball tournament taking place July 3–5 at the Arts & Recreation Centre (ARC) in Grand Cayman.

This premier event will showcase the incredible talent of our National Under-17 Boys Team as they face elite competition from visiting teams representing Texas and Jamaica. Hoop Fest is more than just a tournament—it’s a stepping stone for our young athletes to gain vital international experience, develop their skills, and proudly represent the Cayman Islands on home soil.

🎟 Admission & Tournament Passes

Adults: CI $10.00 per day Children under 10: CI $5.00 per day All-Tournament Pass: CI $25.00 (Save nearly 20% and enjoy all the action!)

Get Your Tickets here

🏆 Why Hoop Fest Matters

This event marks a significant milestone for basketball in the Cayman Islands. By hosting high-level teams from abroad, we’re creating an opportunity for our national athletes to grow in confidence, refine their skills, and test themselves in a competitive setting that mirrors the intensity of regional and international play.

🙌 Thank You to Our Sponsors

This event would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors:

Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage Cost-U-Less Dynamic Sports & Events

Your partnership helps fuel the future of Cayman basketball!

We invite the entire community to come out and support our future stars. Wear your Cayman colours, bring the energy, and be part of history as we tip off this exciting new chapter in local basketball!

Follow us for updates, highlights, and game schedules:

🌐 www.caymanbasketball.com

📲 Instagram & Facebook: @345basketball

Lions Roar to the Title: Game 2 Victory Secures 2025 National Men’s League Championship

In a decisive display of teamwork, toughness, and tactical execution, the Lions secured the 2025 National Men’s League Division 1 Championship with a 68–56 victory over the Sol Blazers in Game 2 of the best-of-three finals. With this win, the Lions clinched the series 2–0 and etched their name in the CIBA history books as the newest champions of Cayman basketball.

The contest started with playoff-level intensity, as both teams traded baskets early. The Blazers, eager to force a Game 3, leaned heavily on the veteran presence of Tarik Smith-James, who dropped a game-high 25 points and pulled down 5 rebounds. Samuel O’Garro added a double-digit performance with 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Teran Timoll chipped in 10 points and 6 boards of his own.

But the Lions had answers — and then some.

Jerome Narcisse delivered a performance worthy of MVP conversations, pouring in 28 points, dishing out 5 assists, and grabbing 6 rebounds. Whether attacking the paint or stretching the defense, Narcisse was electric. Meanwhile, Curtis Wilson dominated the glass, finishing with 12 points and 16 rebounds, playing a vital role in limiting the Blazers’ second-chance opportunities.

Also shining was Justin Collins, who hit timely threes and finished with 14 points and 7 rebounds, helping the Lions sustain momentum whenever the Blazers threatened a comeback.

From start to finish, the Lions’ composure, depth, and rebounding edge (47 total boards) proved to be the difference-makers. They shot an efficient 55.3% on 2-pointers and did just enough from the line to keep the Blazers at bay.

🦁 A Championship Built on Balance and Brotherhood

This title wasn’t about individual dominance — it was about chemistry. The Lions consistently outpaced opponents with their defensive grit, ball movement, and unselfish play throughout the season. With this championship win, they’ve cemented themselves as one of the most well-rounded teams in recent CIBA memory.

As for the Blazers, the final score doesn’t reflect the heart and hustle they brought to the court. With a strong core and experienced leadership, they’ll undoubtedly regroup and come back stronger next season.

👑 Final Series Result: Lions win 2–0

Game 1: Lions 66 – Blazers 60 Game 2: Lions 68 – Blazers 56

Congratulations to the Lions, the 2025 National Men’s League Division 1 Champions! 🏆🔥

Brac Referee Clinic a success!

📣 Referee Development Spotlight: Greg Hamilton in Cayman Brac!

On May 4th, CIBA’s very own certified Referee Instructor Greg Hamilton led an engaging and impactful Officials Clinic in Cayman Brac!

With 16 participants in attendance, the clinic focused on rules knowledge, mechanics, and game management — key areas as we continue to grow and strengthen our officiating team across the islands. Special thanks to the Sports Association of the Sister Islands for facilitating and sponsoring the event.

This initiative is part of CIBA’s broader mission to elevate the standard of basketball officiating and ensure our leagues are supported by confident, competent, and certified officials.

Big thanks to Mr. Hamilton for his leadership and to the Brac community for showing up in full force!

Lions Capture Inaugural Heineken-0 In-Season Tournament Championship in Instant Classic

April 17, 2025 – The John Gray Gym was the epicenter of basketball magic as the Lions and IRG Astros battled for the crown in the inaugural Heineken-0 In-Season Tournament Finals. In a high-octane, back-and-forth showdown, the Lions held on to claim a dramatic 75–70 victory and secure their place in Cayman basketball history.

From the opening tip, both teams played with purpose and intensity. The Lions jumped out to an early lead, but the IRG Astros refused to back down, rallying behind a breathtaking offensive display from Davi Cotterell, who poured in 39 points and added 8 rebounds and 4 assists in a heroic performance.

Despite Cotterell’s brilliance, the Lions stayed composed. Their balanced attack and unselfish ball movement proved crucial down the stretch.

Top Performers – Lions:

• Jerome Narcisse – 22 pts, 6 reb, 5 ast

• Justin Collins – 16 pts, 8 ast, 8-9 FT

• Juawon Ebanks – 15 pts, 3-4 FT, key scoring bursts

Top Performers – IRG Astros:

• Davi Cotterell – 39 pts, 8 reb, 4 ast

• Jamaal Miller – 14 pts

• Jake Whittaker – 8 pts, 5 reb

With under two minutes to play and the game hanging in the balance, the Lions made crucial stops and knocked down key free throws. Collins orchestrated the offense with poise, while Narcisse and Ebanks delivered in clutch moments to preserve the lead.

The final buzzer sounded to a roar from the crowd, as the Lions celebrated their hard-earned title. The win capped off a tournament full of fierce competition, high-level play, and unforgettable moments.

Congratulations to the Lions – your 2025 Heineken-0 In-Season Tournament Champions!

Warriors Crowned Champions of the Inaugural Kelly Law 13U Basketball League

The atmosphere was electric at the ARC on April 12th, as the Warriors and Bucks clashed in a high-stakes showdown for the championship title of the inaugural Kelly Law 13 & Under Basketball League. With the gym filled with fans, family, and fierce energy, the Warriors rose to the occasion and etched their name into Cayman basketball history with a 47-34 victory.

Final Score: Warriors 47 – Bucks 34

From the opening tip, the Warriors came out firing, building early momentum behind the hot hand of Dru Myles, who delivered a performance for the ages. With 37 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 three-pointers, Myles lit up the scoreboard and ignited his team. The Bucks responded with a strong showing led by Mason Miller, who poured in 21 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, keeping his team within striking distance through three quarters.

In the fourth quarter, however, the Warriors found another gear. Key rebounds from Jaydon Palmer (11 rebounds) and clutch defensive stops shut down the Bucks’ comeback hopes. Rares Pomian-Brad added 5 critical points that helped seal the win.

Top Performers – Warriors:

  • Dru Myles: 37 pts, 7 reb, 6 3PM
  • Jaydon Palmer: 4 pts, 11 reb
  • Rares Pomian-Brad: 5 pts, timely scoring and defense

Top Performers – Bucks:

  • Mason Miller: 21 pts, 11 reb
  • Reagan Jacques: 6 pts
  • Isaiah Hammad: 4 pts, 9 reb

In the 3rd place game, the Lakers defeated the Celtics in a tightly contested battle, pulling away in the second half to secure a 48-40 win. The Lakers were led by a phenomenal performance from Jaiden Coke, who dropped 27 points and snagged 13 rebounds. Darius Dixon and Tristan Pearson also made major contributions in the win, helping the Lakers close out their season on a high note.

Top Performers – Lakers:

  • Jaiden Coke: 27 pts, 13 reb
  • Darius Dixon: 11 pts, 9 reb
  • Tristan Pearson: 6 pts, 14 reb, 3 blk

Top Performers – Celtics:

  • Byron Ebanks: 17 pts, 9 reb
  • Peyton Ebanks: 12 pts, 4 stl
  • Adrien Mendoza: 8 pts

The conclusion of the 8-week Kelly Law 13U League marks a significant milestone for youth basketball in the Cayman Islands. With teams formed through a draft process to evenly distribute talent, the league emphasized development, fairness, and opportunity. Players from various schools and backgrounds came together, building friendships and breaking down barriers through the shared love of the game.

The sense of unity, teamwork, and sportsmanship that emerged each week was a true reflection of what the league aimed to create—a fun, inclusive environment where young athletes could grow on and off the court.

A massive thank you to our title sponsor, Kelly Law, whose vision and support made this league possible. Their commitment to youth development and community empowerment played a pivotal role in launching this impactful program.

Congratulations to all players, coaches, and families for making this inaugural season a resounding success. The future of Cayman basketball is bright, and this is only the beginning!

KellyLawLeague #YouthBasketball #CaymanBasketball #CIBA #TogetherThroughBasketball #ChampionshipEnergy

Cayman Men’s 3×3 Team Set to Compete in Prestigious “One Guyana 3×3 Tournament”

Cayman will send an elite Men’s 3×3 Team to the One Guyana 3×3 International Basketball Tournament, scheduled for April 5th and 6th at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in Georgetown, Guyana.

This high-level tournament will bring together elite 3×3 teams from across the Americas and the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Trinidad, St. Lucia, USA, Guatemala, St. Kitts & Nevis, Grenada, Netherlands, and Suriname.

Team Cayman is ready for the challenge, with a talented and battle-tested roster made up of:

  • Philip Webb
  • Justin Collins
  • Davion Cotterell
  • Shaad O’Garro

These four players will now have the opportunity to showcase Cayman’s 3×3 basketball on a larger stage.

Cayman enters the tournament with strong international credentials, currently ranked 55th in the world and 9th in the FIBA Americas region in Men’s 3×3. This ranking is a testament to the country’s growing presence and impact on the global 3×3 scene.

The One Guyana 3×3 Tournament promises an exciting weekend of fast-paced action and high-level competition. CIBA is confident our team will represent the Cayman Islands with pride, passion, and purpose.

Let’s rally behind our guys as they fly the flag high in Guyana!

Stay tuned for game updates, scores, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our social media platforms. The schedule can be found HERE.