SLK Blades Capture 2026 PwC Under 16 League Championship in Thrilling One-Point Victory
The 2026 PwC Under 16 Basketball League concluded with an unforgettable championship showdown as the SLK Blades edged the Hurricanes 73-72, capturing the league title in one of the most exciting games of the season.
In a contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish, both teams displayed exceptional skill, determination, and resilience. The championship game featured multiple lead changes, clutch baskets, and outstanding individual performances before the Blades held on for a dramatic one-point victory.
Irvine III Leads Championship Charge
The SLK Blades were led by an outstanding performance from Delroy Irvine III, who scored a game-high 29 points while knocking down two three-pointers and contributing four steals. Irvine’s offensive production and leadership proved instrumental in guiding the Blades to the championship.
Rajon Boothe delivered another dominant performance, recording 20 points and a game-high 13 rebounds. His presence on the boards gave the Blades numerous second-chance opportunities and helped control the tempo throughout the game.
Additional contributions came from Christian Bray, who added 8 points, Kai Powell, who knocked down two three-pointers for 6 points, and Nathan Ashman, who chipped in 5 points.
While the Hurricanes shot an impressive 63% from the field, the Blades overcame the efficiency disadvantage through relentless effort on the glass, collecting 21 offensive rebounds and creating extra possessions that ultimately proved to be the difference.
Hurricanes Fight Until the Final Buzzer
The Hurricanes turned in a tremendous championship performance and pushed the Blades to the limit.
Mason Miller was exceptional, finishing with 27 points on an efficient 11-for-16 shooting performance. Miller consistently found ways to score and kept the Hurricanes within striking distance throughout the game.
Byron Ebanks added 21 points, including two three-pointers, while shooting a perfect 3-for-3 from the free-throw line. Together, Miller and Ebanks accounted for 48 of the Hurricanes’ 72 points.
Jaydon Palmer contributed 8 points while shooting a perfect 3-for-3 from the field, and Tristan Pearson added another 8 points in a strong all-around team effort.
Despite a remarkable offensive display and efficient shooting throughout the contest, the Hurricanes came up just one point short in a championship game that will be remembered as one of the most competitive finals in recent league history.
A Fitting End to a Successful Season
The championship game served as a fitting conclusion to another successful season of the PwC Under 16 League, showcasing the tremendous growth and talent of Cayman Islands youth basketball.
The Cayman Islands Basketball Association congratulates the SLK Blades on winning the 2026 PwC Under 16 League Championship and commends both teams for demonstrating outstanding sportsmanship, effort, and competitive spirit throughout the season.
CIBA also extends its sincere appreciation to PwC for its continued investment in youth basketball development. Through partnerships like this, young athletes are provided with valuable opportunities to learn, grow, and compete while building the future of basketball in the Cayman Islands.
Championship Final
🏆 SLK Blades 73, Hurricanes 72
Top Performers
⭐ Delroy Irvine III (SLK Blades) – 29 Points, 4 Steals
⭐ Mason Miller (Hurricanes) – 27 Points, 69% Shooting
⭐ Byron Ebanks (Hurricanes) – 21 Points, 3 Assists
⭐ Rajon Boothe (SLK Blades) – 20 Points, 13 Rebounds
Congratulations to the SLK Blades, the 2026 PwC Under 16 League Champions!
