Day 1 Recap: Cayman Islands Hoop Fest Tips Off with Passion, Pride, and Big Plays

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.