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! 

Cayman Prep Takes the Title

The KPMG Under 14 Boys Basketball League culminated in an epic final on March 27th at the John Gray High School Gymnasium. The final would see John Gray High School, led by Josh Barrett and Dwight Hewitt Jr face off against the likes of Quin Small, Liam Ramoon and Naz Webb.

The game was as exciting as any basketball fan could imagine! Both teams made runs, exchanging the lead more than 10 times throughout the game! Just when you though one team was running away with the game, their opponents would make a run and erase the lead. Fans were on the edge of their seats as Prep made adjustments, followed by John Gray orchestrating multiple formulas, trying to solve the complex problems their opponents were causing.

But despite Josh Barrett’s 35 point performance, it was not enough as Quinn, Ramoon and Webb would lead their team to victory with well distributed scoring. KPMG has been the proud supporter and prime sponsor of this League for over 10 years and have been delighted to see our youth shine through this platform! Final Score: 51 – 46 in favor of Cayman Prep.

John Gray High School with Coach Earl Gray
Cayman Prep with Ministry of Education Officials Mr. Elroy Bryan and Mr. Mark Ray (Chief Education Officer) and Mr. Andy Stepaniuk of KPMG (back left).
PwC and KPMG Sponsor Under 16 and Under 14 Basketball Leagues, Respectively
KPMG Under 14 Boys League Semi Finals Coming Up

The KPMG Inter-school Boys League is heating up as the top four teams advance after quarter-final action this past Monday. Here were the results :

QUARTERFINALS
Round Date Time Court Game Home Score Away Score Location
1 19-Feb 3:30 1 13 Cayman Prep 25 St Ignatius 24 John Gray Gymnasium
1 19-Feb 4:30 1 14 Marlin Academy 29 Wahoo Academy 31 John Gray Gymnasium
2 19-Feb 3:30 2 15 Clifton Hunter HS 42 Tarpon Academy 8 John Gray Gymnasium
2 19-Feb 4:30 2 16 Dolphin Academy 31 C.I.S. 17 John Gray Gymnasium

Here is the lineup for this coming Monday’s Semi Finals (Games 17 & 18) as well as consolation games (games 19-20): Winners of games 17 and 18 advance to championship match. 

SEMI-FINALS
Round Date Time Court Game Home Score Away Score Location
1 26-Feb 3:30 1 17 Cayman Prep Dolphin Academy John Gray Gymnasium
1 26-Feb 4:30 2 18 Wahoo Academy Clifton Hunter HS John Gray Gymnasium
1 26-Feb 3:30 1 19 St Ignatius C.I.S. John Gray Gymnasium
1 26-Feb 4:30 2 20 Marlin Academy Tarpon Academy John Gray Gymnasium
Wesleyan defeat St. Ignatius

Action continues in the KPMG Under 14 Boys basketball league. This week’s action saw Wesleyan Christian Academy take on St Ignatius Catholic school. Wesleyan jumped out to an early lead, playing at a frantic pace and trying to capitalize on their fast-break opportunities. St ignatius was trying to pound the ball inside where they had an obvious height advantage. It took nearly a quarter and a half for St ignatius to heat up but they came storming back with a vengeance. However after enduring St ignatius’ run, Wesleyan again turned up their defense and was able to force a few turnovers by their opponents. Those turnovers led to fast-break opportunities which also led to some easy baskets. Although St ignatius would make a run late in the fourth quarter it was too little too late and Wesleyan were able to raise their hands in victory from a very closely contested game. Final score 14-11 in favor of Wesleyan.

Photo below: St. Ignatius Catholic School

St Ignatius

Basketball Up and Running

Basketball season in the Cayman Islands is once again off to a successful start. Led by the Cayman Islands Basketball Association (CIBA), several leagues and clinics have taken shape offering vast opportunities to participate in this growing sport on Island. Whether a veteran or beginner, young or “seasoned”, female or male, all are more than welcome to come out and participate.

CIBA provides a fun, safe environment to engage in the sport of basketball, learn about teamwork and commitment as well as gain local and international recognition. CIBA provides youth the opportunity to play overseas at the High School and/or Collegiate level. To date, over a dozen local male and female youth have continued their education overseas through participation in CIBA programs.

These opportunities would not be possible without CIBA sponsorship. PwC generously continues their community outreach through their longstanding sponsorship of The PwC Basketball Under 16 Boys and Girls Leagues. Additionally, KPMG once again has been gracious in sponsoring The KPMG Basketball Under 14 Boys and Girls Leagues. Amongst many other benefits, these sponsorships allow proper statistical record keeping along with the opportunity to play games indoors, crucial for player development.

Stay tuned for updates and developments as the basketball season persists, including plans for a new facility, along with upcoming basketball related events taking place within the Cayman Islands.

For more information including sponsorship opportunities, please contact Michael Diamond at +1 (345) 916-2430 and / or Coach Voot at +1 (345) 916-5083 or visit https://caymanbasketball.com/

“Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.”

-John Wooden (Renowned Basketball Player and Coach)

Leagues

Men’s League

Start Date: February 19, 2017

End Date: End of May, 2017

Location: Sundays at Clifton Hunter High School, Thursdays at the ARC at Camana Bay or the CIBA Court on Eastern Avenue

Women’s League

Start Date: April 23rd

End Date: TBD

Location: Clifton Hunter High School

 

The PwC Basketball Under 16 League (Boys and Girls)

Start Date: April 1, 2017

End Date: June 3, 2017

Location: Clifton Hunter High School on Saturdays, 4 PM – 6 PM (Girls) and 6 PM – 8PM (Boys)

Sponsor: PwC

Sponsor Statement: Craig Smith, Partner at PwC says, “PwC is proud to support the PwC Basketball Under 16 boys and girls leagues as we believe that organizations such as CIBA provide a positive outlet for the youth of the Cayman Islands and encourages the kids to stay active, develop their talents and provides local and overseas opportunities which in turn forms a strong foundation for success in the future. We also recognize the individuals who are vital to running the league efficiently by volunteering their time and efforts to ensure the season is a successful one.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(From left to right: Coach Voot (CIBA), Leslie Wilson (PwC), Craig Smith (PwC), Michael Diamond (CIBA))

The KPMG Basketball Under 14 League (Boys and Girls)

Start Date: End of March, 2017

End Date: May 11, 2017

Location: 3:15 PM or 3:30 PM Mondays and Thursdays at various venues (Boys), 3:30 PM Tuesdays and Wednesdays at various venues (Girls)

Sponsor: KPMG

Sponsor Statement: “KPMG continues to support the Under 14 Basketball program as we see the value and benefits over the years that the students receive from participating, thanks to Coach Victor “Voot” O’Garro and his colleagues. We have seen the success of some of the participants continuing abroad and we look forward to the future success of other students in the program.” Andrew Stepaniuk, Partner at KPMG in the Cayman Islands stated.

 

(One of the John Gray High School Academy Teams Posing at halftime of a recent match in the KPMG Basketball Under 14 League play)

One thing is for sure; Basketball is alive and well in Cayman!