All posts by admin

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.

John Gray Takes the 2024 U14 Title

In a dominant display of basketball prowess, John Gray High School captured the championship title of the KPMG U15 Boys Basketball League with a resounding 65-19 victory over Triple C in this year’s KPMG U14 School Basketball League. 

The game, characterized by John Gray’s overwhelming offensive and defensive coordination, demonstrated their supremacy in the league. The star of the game was undoubtedly Ra’Jon Bostle who led all scorers with an impressive 18 points, 3 rebounds and 3 steals . Bostel’s exceptional shooting from the field and his ability to drive through the defense was a major factor in his team’s success. His performance was not just about scoring; he also contributed significantly on the defensive end, making crucial steals and rebounds.  

Supporting Brown was Hartwell Mcfield, who also poured in 18 points to the scoreboard. Mcfield’s sharpshooting, especially from beyond the arc, stretched the defense and provided John Gray with multiple scoring avenues. His consistent performance throughout the game helped to maintain the momentum and build an insurmountable lead. 

Leon Shorter also played a pivotal role in the victory, contributing 12 points and 6 rebounds. Shorter excelled in penetrating the defense and facilitating plays, which proved essential in breaking down Triple C’s attempts to rally. 

For Triple C, the 12 year old phenom Dru Myles poured in 70% of his team’s points. But the John Gray Press defense and double team strategy on Myles made life very difficult for Myles to get into a groove.  Triple C has done a phenomenal job to finish in the top 2 with a relatively young team in a league of 12 teams!

The victory was a team effort, with every player contributing to a defense that limited Triple C to just 19 points throughout the game. John Gray’s ability to control the pace of the game and execute their game plan flawlessly underscores their championship-worthy performance. 

This win not only signifies a season of hard work and dedication but also sets a high bar for the growth and standard of play in the KPMG U15 Boys Basketball League. As John Gray High School celebrates their well-deserved championship, the future looks bright for these young athletes who have showcased immense talent and sportsmanship.

Cayman Prep Edges Past John Gray for the U14 Title

In an exciting finale to the 14th annual KPMG U14 Inter-School Girls Basketball League, Cayman Prep clinched the championship title with a hard-fought 32-27 victory over John Gray High School. The game, characterized by intense defense and strategic playmaking, kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer. Cayman Prep’s success was spearheaded by their standout players, whose performances were crucial in securing the win. 

Leading the charge was MVP Jess Dawson who displayed remarkable skill and leadership on the court. Morgan tallied an impressive 20 points, making her the top scorer of the game. Her ability to drive to the basket and make crucial shots under pressure was a key factor in her team’s success. 

 Supporting Morgan was Cass Coles who contributed significantly with 6 points and 2 steals. Coles’ defensive prowess was notable, as she managed to disrupt many of John Gray’s attempts to score, and her energy on the court spurred her team to maintain their lead.  

Leading John Gray’s efforts was Kylie Bodden-Watler who emerged as the team’s top player with 9 points, 6 rebounds and 3 steals. Watler’s ability to find scoring opportunities and execute under pressure made her a significant threat on the court. Her agility and sharp shooting skills were on full display, keeping her team in contention throughout the game. Another standout performer for John Gray was Jade Cole who contributed 6 points and 9 rebounds. Cole’s versatility was crucial; she played effectively both in the paint and on the perimeter, showcasing her adaptive play style. Her defensive plays and rebounding were equally important, providing John Gray with multiple second-chance opportunities. Although John Gray did not claim the championship title, the performances of these athletes highlighted their skill and sportsmanship. Their efforts promise exciting future prospects for the team in upcoming seasons, as these young players continue to develop and refine their basketball prowess.

 As Cayman Prep celebrates their well-deserved victory, their teamwork, determination, and the standout performances of these young athletes highlight the bright future of basketball. The thrilling conclusion to this season sets a high standard for the competitions to come and KPMG has been instrumental in the growth of youth basketball by supporting this league for the 14th straight year! 

KPMG Partner David Watt and Director of Education Mark Ray take a photo with the Champions.
KPMG Reps Andy Stepaniuk – Co Managing Partner, David Watt – Partner- Head of Insurance and Director of Education Mark Ray with the League Runner Up, John Gray High School
Corporate 3×3 League Coming up!

Get ready to light up the courts because Camana Bay is about to get all kinds of lit with the most electrifying, ankle-breakin’, 3X3 basketball league you’ve ever seen! This isn’t your regular pickup game at the park. Oh no, we’re talking about the creme de la creme of corporate ballers, ready to lay it all on the line in the ultimate showdown of hoops mastery.

With the Caribbean sun setting the stage, teams from the fiercest competitors in the corporate world will battle it out, showcasing their skills, agility, and unbreakable team spirit. Imagine the heart-pounding buzzer-beaters, the no-look passes, the jaw-dropping crossovers – this league is where legends are born and bragging rights are earned.

So, mark your calendars, grab your jerseys, and lace up your sneakers. It’s not just a game; it’s a celebration of basketball, camaraderie, and sheer wizardry, all set against the backdrop of the breathtakingly beautiful Camana Bay. See Flyer and attached rules for details! See you on the court!

The league takes place every Tuesday night from 7-9 pm from April 2nd – May 21st.
Registration fee is CI $180.00 per team and the deadline to register is March 26th.
There will be prizes and surprises. The league is co-ed.
Teams must provide their own tops which should have numbers on the front and back!
Email cbsc@camanabay.com to register.

CB_3V3_Basketball_Rules_2024Download
Lions Overpower U17

In this competitive National Men’s League basketball game, both teams showcased their talents and potential, but it was the balanced team effort and standout individual performances that highlighted the match. Let’s delve into the top two performers from each team.

U17 Team Analysis

  • George Brooks: Brooks was a significant contributor for the U17 team, scoring 11 points with a solid 50% shooting from the field (4 of 8). His performance was notable for its efficiency, as he also excelled at the free-throw line, making all three of his attempts. Brooks contributed beyond scoring, with 2 rebounds and 3 steals. His ability to generate steals and score efficiently was crucial for his team.
  • Griffin Macdonald: Tied for the team-high in points with Brooks, Macdonald also put up 11 points, showcasing an impressive 75% shooting efficiency from inside the arc (3 of 4). Although he struggled from beyond the arc in this particular game, his overall contribution included making both of his free throws, grabbing a rebound, and providing an assist. Macdonald’s versatility was evident in his ability to score from different areas on the court.

Lions Team Analysis

  • Jerome Narcisse: Narcisse led the Lions with a game-high 20 points, displaying remarkable efficiency by shooting 69.2% from the field (9 of 13). He was also effective from the free-throw line, making 2 of his 3 attempts. Beyond his scoring, Narcisse contributed 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals, making him a pivotal player in the Lions’ victory by impacting the game on both ends of the floor.
  • Kevin Maxwell: Maxwell was another key player for the Lions, contributing 5 points and leading the game in rebounds with 10 (6 defensive, 4 offensive), showcasing his dominance on the glass. His ability to secure rebounds provided his team with additional possessions and limited the U17 team’s second-chance opportunities. Additionally, Maxwell’s 3 assists and 2 blocks highlighted his all-around game and ability to contribute in multiple facets.

Game Summary

The Lions outperformed the U17 team with a more efficient shooting night, evident in their 47.6% shooting from the field compared to the U17 team’s 39.5%. The Lions also had a significant advantage in rebounds (46 to 21), which played a crucial role in their victory by controlling the boards and generating additional scoring opportunities.

The game was closely contested in terms of turnovers, with both teams giving up the ball 18 times. This aspect of the game indicates a high-intensity defensive effort from both sides, although the Lions were able to capitalize more effectively on these opportunities.

The standout performers, Brooks and Macdonald from the U17 team, and Narcisse and Maxwell from the Lions, showcased their individual talents and potential. Narcisse’s scoring ability and Maxwell’s rebounding and defensive presence were particularly impactful, driving the Lions to secure the win. The U17 team showed promise and competitiveness, highlighted by Brooks’s scoring and Macdonald’s shooting efficiency, but ultimately, the Lions’ balanced team effort and superior execution led them to victory.

Legends Clip Eagles’ Wings

In this basketball game, both the Kelly Law Eagles and WOV Legends displayed notable performances from their players, though the game was marked by defensive prowess and turnovers. Let’s break down the top performers from each team.

Kelly Law Eagles Analysis

  • Maggie Ebanks: Ebanks stood out for the Kelly Law Eagles with a team-high 11 points on 50% shooting from the field (5 of 10). Her presence was especially dominant on the boards, grabbing 15 rebounds (12 defensive, 3 offensive), contributing significantly to her team’s efforts in controlling the paint. Additionally, her defensive contributions included 2 blocks, emphasizing her role as a key defensive anchor for her team.
  • Clevisha Smith: Smith contributed 12 points, the second-highest on her team, on 42.9% shooting (6 of 14). While she did not convert her single three-point attempt, she played an essential role in the Eagles’ offense. Smith also collected 3 rebounds and contributed defensively with 2 steals, showcasing her all-around contributions despite the team’s overall struggles.

WOV Legends Analysis

  • Chloe Powery-Doxey: Powery-Doxey was the game’s top scorer with 16 points on an efficient 53.8% shooting from the field (7 of 13). Although she did not make any of her three three-point attempts, her effort on the free-throw line (2 of 4) and her massive contribution on the defensive end with 14 steals stand out as a game-changing performance. She also contributed 8 rebounds, displaying her versatility and impact on both ends of the court.
  • Shana Linwood-McLaughlin: Linwood-McLaughlin contributed significantly to her team’s victory with 15 points, utilizing her shooting ability to hit 50% of her shots from the field (6 of 12) and converting one of her three three-point attempts. Along with her scoring, Linwood-McLaughlin added 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 steal, proving to be a valuable all-around player for the Legends.

Game Summary

The game was characterized by a high number of turnovers from both teams, with the Kelly Law Eagles committing a total of 32 and the WOV Legends 19. This aspect of the game highlighted the defensive efforts put forth by both teams, particularly by the Eagles’ Ashley Wood, who managed to secure 5 steals despite only scoring 2 points.

Despite the Eagles’ struggles with shooting efficiency (32.2% from the field and 0% from the three-point line), their performance at the free-throw line was notable, converting 88.9% of their attempts. This efficiency, however, was not enough to overcome the Legends, who managed a slightly better field goal percentage (34.7%) and capitalized on their opportunities from beyond the arc (25%).

The game’s standout performers, Ebanks for the Eagles and Powery-Doxey for the Legends, showcased their abilities to impact the game beyond just scoring, with Ebanks dominating the glass and Powery-Doxey’s exceptional defensive prowess with 14 steals. These individual performances highlighted the competitive nature of the game, with both teams showing strengths and areas for improvement moving forward.