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Power Rangers Sit on the Throne

Kings and Queens 3×3 Basketball Tournament 2024 Women’s Division Summary

The Women’s Division of the Kings and Queens 3×3 Basketball Tournament 2024 showcased outstanding athleticism and competitive spirit. The tournament featured thrilling matchups, with each team giving their all to claim the title. Here’s a rundown of the tournament highlights:

  • Teams: The main contenders were the Sheros, Renegades, Power Rangers, and Double Stuffed Oreos.
  • Format: Similar to the men’s division, the women’s competition was structured around pool games, culminating in a series of decisive matches.

Key Matches and Results:

  1. Power Rangers vs. Double Stuffed Oreos: Power Rangers took a decisive 12-7 victory, showing great synergy and on-court strategy.
  2. Sheros vs. Power Rangers: Power Rangers dominated this game, winning 14-4, thanks to their aggressive offensive plays.
  3. Double Stuffed Oreos vs. Sheros: Double Stuffed Oreos defeated the Sheros 16-9, leveraging their strong offensive lineup.

Championship Match:

  • Power Rangers vs. Double Stuffed Oreos: In a nail-biting final, the Power Rangers clinched the championship with a close 15-14 victory against Double Stuffed Oreos. The game was highly competitive, with back-and-forth leads that showcased the high skill level and determination of both teams.

Standout Performances:

  • Power Rangers emerged as the champions, demonstrating exceptional teamwork and resilience throughout the tournament. They consisted of Naomi Welcome, Lorrie Brown and Shantell Wilks.
  • Double Stuffed Oreos also shone brightly, especially in their final match, showing that they were formidable opponents. The team is: Amaya Linwood, Annika Moore, Bethany Ebanks and Brianna Bodden.

Conclusion:

The Women’s Division of the Kings and Queens 3×3 2024 was a resounding success, highlighting the growing popularity and competitive level of women’s 3×3 basketball. The tournament not only provided a platform for showcasing talent but also highlighted the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie among the players.

Backcourt Bandits Secure the Crown

Kings and Queens 3×3 Basketball Tournament 2024 Summary

The Kings and Queens 3×3 Basketball Tournament 2024, held on June 28, featured an intense showcase of skill and competition across various matches. Here are some highlights from the tournament:

  • Teams: Notable teams included the Backcourt Bandits, DTB Elites, DUBS, Green Bean, WUN OF ONE, and Cookies & Cream.
  • Format: The tournament followed a pool format, leading to a series of games where each team had multiple opportunities to play against their counterparts. The top two seeded teams would meet in the final.

Key Matches and Results:

  1. Backcourt Bandits vs. DTB Elites: The Backcourt Bandits took a strong lead and won 16-11 in a match marked by strategic plays and strong defense.
  2. DUBS vs. Green Bean: DUBS overcame Green Bean with a final score of 17-10, showcasing superior offensive tactics.
  3. WUN OF ONE vs. Cookies & Cream: Cookies & Cream defeated WUN OF ONE 14-9, thanks to their cohesive team play and effective shooting.
  4. DTB Elites vs. Cookies & Cream: Cookies & Cream continued their winning streak by beating DTB Elites 13-10 in a closely contested match.
  5. Green Bean vs. WUN OF ONE: In a defensive battle, Green Bean edged out WUN OF ONE with a narrow 9-8 victory.
  6. Backcourt Bandits vs. DUBS: The Backcourt Bandits dominated with a 10-5 win, displaying a mix of aggressive offense and tight defense.
  7. DUBS vs. DTB Elites: DUBS secured another win with a 10-9 score, in a match where every point was hard fought.
  8. WUN OF ONE vs. Backcourt Bandits: Backcourt Bandits secured a commanding 21-9 victory, showcasing their dominance in the tournament.

Standout Performances:

  • Cookies & Cream were a highlight of the tournament, consistently performing well across their games with strategic plays and strong teamwork.
  • Backcourt Bandits also showed exceptional skill, particularly in their robust defense and scoring capabilities.

The Kings and Queens 3×3 2024 was a thrilling event that highlighted the growing talent and enthusiasm for 3×3 basketball. Each team brought their best to the court, making for a memorable tournament filled with competitive spirit and sportsmanship. Ultimately, it would be the Backcourt Bandits that would emerge victorious and retain bragging rights for the next 12 months! Tha bandits consisted of Nate Anderson, Bryan Ebanks and Javonte Woolery.

CIS Triumphs in U16 Boys League Showdown

In a riveting championship match of the PWC U16 Boys League, CIS emerged victorious over 345 Cayman Hoops with a final score of 66-49. This intense game displayed a mix of strategic play and standout individual performances, particularly from CIS, who showcased their depth and skill to secure the win.

Top Performers for CIS:

  1. Griffin Macdonald was the game’s high scorer with 29 points, demonstrating his shooting prowess by successfully making half of his 18 two-point attempts and adding three three-pointers. His ability to score from both inside and outside was pivotal to CIS’s offensive strategy. Additionally, Macdonald contributed 9 rebounds and 4 steals, making significant impacts on defense.
  2. Ayo Ogunyebi played a crucial role, particularly under the basket, with 13 points and a game-high 14 rebounds, including 6 offensive boards. His presence in the paint was dominant, aiding CIS in controlling the game’s tempo and securing second-chance points. Ogunyebi’s defensive efforts were equally impressive, recording 4 blocks.
  3. James Fletcher added 10 points, hitting crucial shots that helped maintain CIS’s lead. His contributions were well-rounded, with 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and a steal, playing a key role in both the offensive setups and defensive stops.

Top Performers for 345 Cayman Hoops:

  1. Liam Ramoon led his team with 13 points, mixing it up with a strong inside game and the team’s only three-pointer. His all-around performance was bolstered by 5 rebounds and 2 assists, showcasing his versatility.
  2. Dylan Simpson was a notable performer with 11 points and 10 rebounds, achieving a double-double. Simpson’s effort on the boards, particularly with 9 offensive rebounds, kept his team in contention throughout the game.
  3. Amari Latham contributed 9 points and pulled down 5 rebounds. While his shooting wasn’t as efficient as usual, his defensive work, including 3 blocks, highlighted his defensive capabilities.

Game Analysis:

CIS’s strategy was effectively centered around aggressive inside play and timely shooting. Their 31.1% shooting from two-point range was complemented by crucial three-pointers, where they shot 25%. Their defensive work, characterized by 5 blocks and 7 steals, disrupted many of Cayman Hoops’ plays.

On the other side, 345 Cayman Hoops struggled with their shooting efficiency, managing only 33.9% from the field and their shots from beyond the arc simply weren’t falling. Their ability to stay in the game was aided by stronger defensive efforts, which included 4 blocks and 13 steals, but turnovers, opponent’s offensive rebounds and missed opportunities ultimately cost them.

The championship match was a testament to the skill and determination of these young athletes, with CIS using a combination of strategic defense and efficient scoring to clinch the title. This victory marks a significant achievement in their season, celebrating their teamwork, perseverance, and basketball prowess.

Infinity Capture the U16 Title

In an exhilarating showdown at the PWC U16 Girls League Championship Match, the Infinity team triumphed over the Infinity All Stars with a final score of 50-39. The game was fiercely contested, showcasing emerging talents from both teams, but it was Infinity’s strategic execution and standout performances that secured their victory.

Top Performers for Infinity:

  1. Naomi Welcome delivered a standout performance, leading her team with 17 points. She was highly efficient from the field, shooting an impressive 66.7%. In addition to her scoring prowess, Welcome grabbed 10 rebounds, contributing a double-double that proved critical in the game’s outcome.
  2. Lorrie Brown was a force on both ends of the court, amassing 15 points and dominating the rebounds with 18, including 8 offensive boards. Her defensive presence was highlighted by 3 blocks, significantly impacting the All Stars’ ability to score inside.
  3. Isabella Maye contributed 6 points and played a key role in maintaining the team’s momentum. While her point tally was modest, her overall floor game helped stabilize Infinity during crucial moments.

Top Performers for Infinity All Stars:

  1. Shantell Wilks stood out for the All Stars with 15 points, demonstrating her ability to score under pressure. She also collected 7 rebounds and contributed defensively with 3 blocks, showcasing her all-around skills.
  2. Fleur Slowey-Dillon added 13 points, and her efficiency from the field was a bright spot for the All Stars. She also grabbed 3 rebounds and made critical plays that kept the game competitive.
  3. Renee Bryant rounded out the top performances with 7 points and a game-high 5 steals, reflecting her defensive tenacity. Bryant’s efforts on defense were instrumental in disrupting Infinity’s offensive flow.

Game Analysis:

Infinity’s strategy was effectively centered around their strong inside game, as evidenced by their 40 total rebounds and a 39.0% shooting percentage from the field. Although they struggled from beyond the arc, their ability to score in the paint and capitalize on second-chance opportunities through offensive rebounds was decisive.

The Infinity All Stars faced challenges in converting their shots, ending the game with a 32.0% field goal percentage. This created difficulties in stretching the defense, which limited their scoring options.

Defensively, both teams showed strengths; however, Infinity’s ability to block 4 shots and create turnovers at critical junctures provided them with the edge needed to maintain their lead.

The game culminated in a well-deserved victory for Infinity, who executed their game plan with precision and took advantage of their physicality inside the paint. This championship win not only highlighted the talent of these young athletes but also promised exciting futures for all participants in the PWC U16 Girls League.

Jan B Pilipinas Defend Their Title

In a thrilling finale to the National Men’s League Division 2 Championship, Jan B Construction edged out Cayman’s U17 Boys team in the decisive third game of the series, clinching the title with a final score of 91-86. This intense matchup not only showcased the high skill levels of both teams but also highlighted their resilience and strategic execution throughout the series.

Top Performers for Jan B Construction:

  1. Jan Barrozo emerged as a key player, leading his team with 26 points. His effective shooting inside, achieving a 52.2% success rate, coupled with his ability to pull down 11 rebounds, provided Jan B Construction with a solid foundation in both scoring and defense.
  2. Prisfel Cruz was a significant contributor with 21 points, demonstrating his sharpshooting skills by hitting 45.5% of his three-point attempts. His proficiency from the free-throw line, where he made 85.7% of his shots, was crucial in the closing stages of the game.
  3. Brian Lacap added 12 points, including key three-pointers that helped shift the momentum in favor of Jan B Construction. His all-around gameplay was evident with 5 steals and 5 assists, making critical plays that spurred his team forward.

Top Performers for U17:

  1. Griffin Macdonald put on a stellar performance, scoring 31 points to lead all scorers. His ability to convert from beyond the arc, where he made six three-pointers, kept U17 in contention throughout the game.
  2. Osmond Anderson was a powerhouse on the boards, grabbing a game-high 20 rebounds and adding 16 points. His double-double performance was a key factor in U17’s competitive edge.
  3. George Brooks contributed 17 points and provided playmaking with 4 assists. His scoring and facilitating played a significant role in U17’s offensive strategies.

Game Analysis:

Jan B Construction showcased their strength in shooting and ball handling, as evidenced by their 49% shooting from two-point range and a solid 34.5% from three-point territory. Their ability to manage turnovers was also impressive, with a 100% assist-to-turnover ratio highlighting efficient passing and decision-making under pressure.

U17 displayed robust rebounding, outmatching Jan B Construction with 45 total rebounds to 37. However, their three-point shooting was slightly less efficient at 32.3%, and their 60% free-throw shooting may have cost them in crucial moments.

The game was a fitting climax to a hard-fought series, with Jan B Construction ultimately seizing control in the final period. Their ability to execute in clutch situations, combined with strategic defensive plays that limited U17’s opportunities, were decisive factors in their victory.

This win marks a significant achievement for Jan B Construction, capping off a successful season with a championship title and their 2nd in a row! Both teams displayed tremendous heart and skill, contributing to a memorable and highly competitive series that highlighted the best of Division 2 basketball.

The U17 Boys team are to be commended for a fantastic season as they were boys playing against men but showed wisdom and skill beyond their years!

Sol Blazers Solidify Their Dynasty

In a dramatic display of basketball prowess, the Sol Blazers triumphed over the IRG Astros with a final score of 98-86, securing their second consecutive and eleventh overall championship title. This victory was not just a win but a testament to the Blazers’ sustained excellence and dominance in the league.

Top Performers for the IRG Astros:

  1. Davion Cotterell once again proved why he’s a key player, delivering a powerhouse performance with 37 points. His relentless attacks and shooting from both inside and beyond the arc kept the Astros competitive throughout the game. Cotterell also contributed 6 rebounds and 3 assists, showcasing his all-around skills on the court.
  2. Jake Whittaker supported the team with 16 points and 10 rebounds, achieving a critical double-double. Whittaker’s efforts on the boards and his scoring inside provided much-needed stability and scoring depth for the Astros.
  3. La-Rue Nixon added a valuable 13 points, including an impressive 60% from three-point land, which highlighted his shooting capabilities. Nixon’s contributions were crucial in keeping the game within reach during key moments.

Top Performers for the Sol Blazers:

  1. Tarik Smith-James led his team with a spectacular 42 points, dominating the court with his shooting efficiency. Smith-James was unstoppable from beyond the arc, where he nailed 6 of 11 attempts, and he was perfect from the free-throw line, making all 12 of his shots. His playmaking was also on display with 7 assists, orchestrating the Blazers’ offense to perfection.
  2. Samuel O’Garro contributed significantly with 31 points, showcasing a phenomenal 75% shooting from two-point range and an impressive 54.5% from three-point range. O’Garro’s dynamic performance was crucial in extending the lead and putting pressure on the Astros’ defense.
  3. Shaad O’Garro was a defensive powerhouse, blocking 7 shots which set the tone defensively for the Blazers. Offensively, he added 11 points and collected 10 rebounds, achieving a double-double that underscored his impact on both ends of the floor.

The game itself was a showcase of high-intensity basketball with the Sol Blazers displaying a masterclass in shooting precision. Their remarkable 52.6% shooting from the field and an astonishing 100% from the free-throw line were indicative of their focused play and execution under pressure. Meanwhile, the IRG Astros fought valiantly but struggled to match the Blazers’ efficiency and depth, particularly in the crucial moments.

This victory for the Sol Blazers is a crowning achievement, reinforcing their legacy as a powerhouse in the league. Their ability to perform under pressure and rise to the occasion in crucial games has been a hallmark of their success. As they lift their eleventh title, the Blazers not only celebrate their victory today but also affirm their enduring excellence and dominance in the sport. This championship game was not just a win but a celebration of skill, strategy, and the spirit of basketball at its best.

WATCH THE GAME HERE!

A DREAM Becomes Reality

In a fiercely contested basketball showdown, DREAM narrowly edged out Infinity, clinching a hard-fought 58-54 victory. The game, filled with high-intensity plays and strategic masterstrokes, highlighted the depth of talent and resilience in both teams.

From the onset, Infinity set a brisk pace, challenging DREAM with aggressive defense and swift counterattacks. Victoria Gray, Infinity’s standout player, emerged as a crucial figure in the game’s dynamics. She poured in a team-high 18 points, displaying remarkable versatility in her play. Notably, Gray managed to sink 2 of her 8 attempts from three-point range, a testament to her range and shooting ability. Beyond her scoring, Gray’s defensive prowess was equally impressive. She recorded five steals over the course of the game, disrupting DREAM’s offensive flow and igniting fast-break opportunities for her team.

Complementing Gray’s performance, Shantell Wilks also stepped up for Infinity. She contributed 10 points, converting an efficient 62.5% of her shots from the field. Wilks didn’t just make her presence felt on the offensive end; she also grabbed four rebounds and added a steal, playing a pivotal role in both the defensive and offensive facets of the game.

Despite these strong performances, DREAM showcased their resilience and strategic execution. Ronjenae DeGray was a powerhouse, not only scoring 23 points with a commendable 47.4% shooting accuracy but also dominating the glass. DeGray’s remarkable tally of 26 rebounds was a game-high, and her ability to control the paint was a critical element in DREAM’s strategy. Her defensive contributions were just as vital, with five blocks that served as a stark reminder of her presence in the key.

Adding to DREAM’s offensive arsenal was Kayah Clarke, who scored 25 points. Although Clarke struggled with her long-range shooting, she excelled at the free-throw line, where she went 9 for 11. Her ability to draw fouls and capitalize on those opportunities underscored her importance to DREAM’s offensive game plan. Clarke also contributed eight rebounds, assisting DeGray in controlling the rebounding battle.

The game itself was a rollercoaster of momentum shifts. Infinity’s strategy seemed to focus on exploiting fast-break opportunities and applying pressure through aggressive defense. On the other side, DREAM’s game plan was anchored in maximizing their interior strength and rebounding capabilities to control the pace of the game. Infinity’s defensive strategy was clear; Clarke was getting double and triple teamed on almost every play, giving more room for DeGray to go to work. Clarke scored a league high 66 points in the previous meeting.

As the game wound down, the scores were tight, with both teams exchanging leads multiple times. In the closing minutes, DREAM’s slight edge in free-throw shooting proved to be the difference. Their 76.2% accuracy from the line, compared to Infinity’s 36.4%, provided the necessary cushion to hold off a late surge from Infinity.

The final buzzer marked not just the end of a game but a celebration of exceptional basketball. Both teams displayed incredible determination and skill, with DREAM coming out on top in this thrilling encounter. This game not only highlighted individual brilliance but also the strategic intricacies of basketball, where every play and every decision can sway the outcome. Fans were left in awe of the sheer competitiveness and spirit shown by both teams, making this a memorable matchup in the league’s history.

Clarke Finished as the Series MVP, Averaging 45 points and 8 rebounds through the two games.

Series MVP Kayah Clarke
Subscribe to the CIBA Youtube Channel

CIBA has launched a new youtube channel which will feature games from its various leagues. It will be the primary source for game videos and all are encouraged to subscribe to the channel! Head over to this link Cayman Islands Basketball Association – YouTube and follow us! One of the other purposes of the youtube channel is to eventually become another source of revenue for CIBA’s national and youth programs.

Dream Take Game 1: Clarke Sets a New Record

Ladies and gentlemen, this game was nothing short of spectacular, and we’re here to break it down for you in what was the most exciting Women’s basketball game of the season! First off, let’s talk about the Infinity team. They put up a good fight with a total of 70 points, but the star of their show was none other than Lorrie Brown. This player was a rebounding machine, grabbing 13 boards, scoring 13 points, and swatting away 2 shots. Talk about a double-double with a cherry on top!

But hold on, we can’t forget about Victoria Gray. Dropping 18 points and dishing out 4 assists, she was slicing through the defense like a hot knife through butter. And those 7 rebounds? She was all over the court!

Now, let’s switch gears to the Dream team, who came out on top with 99 points. The MVP here? Without a doubt, Kayah Clarke. Scoring a whopping 66 points, including an unbelievable 53.3% from the three-point line. And let’s not overlook those 18 free throws. She wasn’t just on fire; she was a blazing inferno! Clarke set a National record with this performance!

And we can’t leave out Ronjenae DeGray. With 24 points, a 58.3% shooting from the field, and dominating the glass with 19 rebounds, she was a force to be reckoned with. Not to mention, she was sharing the rock with 5 assists and protecting the rim with 3 blocks.

Another thing that you won’t see on the stat sheet was Hannah Parchment’s defense on Vicky Gray. parchment made her work for every point and managed to reduce her scoring output by more than 12 points.

In conclusion, while Infinity showed heart, Dream was just on another level. Brown and Gray shined for Infinity, but Clarke and DeGray were the dynamic duo that led Dream to victory. This wasn’t just a basketball game; it was a statement! Now the ball is in Coach Cory McGee’s court as he’s left to make the adjustments and figure out how to stop the dynamic duo.

Cayman School Wins CISA Tournament

In April, Cayman International School proudly participated in the inaugural 2024 Caribbean International Sports Association (CISA) tournament, a collaborative effort among five international schools spanning the Caribbean region. This exciting event, held from April 17th to 21st, was hosted by The Columbus School in Medellin, Colombia.

The tournament showcased U18 Boys and Girls Soccer, Basketball, and Volleyball competitions. CIS competed alongside esteemed institutions like the Carol Morgan School (Dominican Republic), The Baldwin School (Puerto Rico), Colegio Nueva Granada (Bogota, Colombia), and, of course, The Columbus School.

Despite a challenging start with a narrow loss to The Columbus School in the opening game, CIS’s U18 boys basketball team displayed remarkable resilience. They surged through subsequent matches, defeating Colegio Nueva Granada, Carol Morgan School, and The Baldwin School to secure a spot in the Semi Finals. Following a hard-fought battle against The Baldwin School, CIS advanced to the championship showdown against their rivals, the Carol Morgan School. In an intense and physical game, CIS emerged victorious with a narrow 40-39 win, clinching the CISA Boys Basketball championship.

During the closing ceremonies, CIS celebrated the outstanding performances of its athletes, particularly Griffin Macdonald (One of Cayman’s National u17 Players), who earned the Finals MVP title and the tournament’s 3-point shooting championship. Additionally, Griffin and James Fletcher received well-deserved recognition by being named to the Tournament All-Star Team.

A resounding congratulations is extended to the CIS boys basketball team for their remarkable tournament journey and triumphant finals victory. Special acknowledgment goes to Coach Justin for his exceptional leadership and preparation, instrumental in guiding the team through such memorable moments.