Tag National Men’s League

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.

Jan B Philipinas Edges by the U17

Alright folks, let’s dive into this showdown between U17 and Jan B Construction! This game was a nail-biter, let me tell you. Both teams came out swinging, but in the end, Jan B Construction emerged victorious by a hair, 88-86.

Now, we gotta talk about the stalwarts who led their teams to battle. For U17, Macdonald, the Magnificent (Griffin Macdonald, that is) was an absolute BEAST! He dropped a game-high 22 points, showcasing some smooth moves and clutch shooting. You gotta give props to Clarke, the Sparkplug (Mikhai Clarke) as well, who chipped in a solid 15 points and played some scrappy defense.

Jan B Construction had their own dynamic duo. Lacap, the Laser (Brian Lacap) came out on fire, putting up 23 points and showcasing some deadly accuracy from the field. Don’t sleep on Quinto III, the Quarterback (Rey Quinto III) either, who racked up 19 points, 9 rebounds, and dished out some dimes to keep his team in the game.

This game was a defensive slugfest, folks. Both teams were battling for every inch of the court, making it tough to score. But in the end, Jan B Construction’s clutch free throws and strong rebounding down the stretch proved to be the difference.

Team Stats

Jan B Construction had a higher shooting percentage from the field (62.7%) compared to U17 (50.8%). They also attempted and made more free throws (14 attempted, 12 made) compared to U17 (20 attempted, 8 made). However, U17 had more rebounds (35) compared to Jan B Construction (33).

Overall, both teams played hard and it was a close game. Jan B Construction’s shooting and free throw accuracy helped them secure the win in the end.

Let me tell you, the future of basketball is bright in the Cayman Islands, if this game is any indication! These young players displayed heart, hustle, and some serious skill. I can’t wait to see what they accomplish in the years to come. Until next time, stay loud, stay engaged, and keep your eye on these rising stars!

Blazers and Warriors face off for the Crown

It seemed as though it was scripted for a movie: The 2-time defending champions, the Burger King Warriors, who are the only undefeated team this year, face off against the 2nd Seeded Sol Blazers who are eager for revenge.

In their last 4 meetings there is a 2-2 split. The Warriors blew out the Blazers by 20 in their meeting this season; however, the Blazers’ top scorer Samuel O’Garro did not play that game. This game features two players that played Professional in Europe: Samuel O’Garro, who leads the league in scoring and also posted a season and career high 61 points in a single game this season. However, O’Garro doesn’t only get it done on the offensive end, he also leads the league in Steals, is the top rebounder for his team and also is 2nd in assists for his team. For the Warriors, Jerome Narcisse also played in Europe and is the league’s most efficient player. Narcisse has the highest field goal percentage of any players that have played at least 4 games (63.8%) and leads his team in scoring, assists and rebounds. These are two very complete players.

The blazers have a big 3 – Samuel and Shaad O’Garro and Justin Golob, who are the main ingredients responsible for the Blazers “bounce back” season. Shaad O’Garro is a defensive menace and leads the league in Blocks while Golob is also a very good scorer and can also create opportunities for his teammates.

The Warriors also have a big 3; along with Narcisse is Juawon Ebanks, a fiery, lightning fast shooting guard who can heat up very quickly. Ebanks put alot of pressure on defenses because of his ability to penetrate gaps in the defense. Along with the knock-down long range shooter Kwei General. General is one of the top three, long-range shooters in the league but also another good all-round player. General is the 2nd leading scorer for the Warriors with 21 points per game.

The action begins on Sunday May 21st at the ARC at 7:45 pm. Before this game is the Division 1 Finals Game 1 between Plantito and the Cayman Finance Heat. Both Championships are presented by Princess Jewellers.

Juniors Beat Seniors

In more playoff action…

It was a battle between the 4th and 5th seeds.

4th place Western Union Juniors defeted 5th place Celltronics 90 to 84 in the single elimination match on Moday night at the John Gray gym.

For Juniors, Jathan Barnes top scored with 28 points, 5 steals, 5 rebounds; Marcus Fletcher followed with 19 points, 6 rebounds, 3 steals, 2 blocks; Keller Wilson added 12 points, 4 steals; Jeheil Henry contributed 9 points. The highest rebounder for the team was Noel Squire with 7.

For Celltronics, Daniel Mowatt led the charge with 29 points, Damion Powell followed with 19 points, 20 rebounds, 2 steals, Davion Foster added 13 points, 11 rebounds and Gavin Reid contributed 10 points, 5 steals, 5 rebounds. Rick Henry aka Broklyn grabbe 18 rebouds with 7 points.

Though Celltronics lost the battle they clearly beat the Juniors on the boards and were point for point with their opponents…so what happened? Celltronics had a small bench and with two key players fouling out, there was not enough depth on the team to keep up with the Juniors who took advantage of this opportunity to advance to the semi-finals.

WU Juniors will now face 1st seed Burger King Warriors in the semi-finals this week.

All CIBA games are played at the John Gray Gumnasium.

Juniors Beat Seniors

In more playoff action…

It was a battle between the 4th and 5th seeds.

4th place Western Union Juniors defeted 5th place Celltronics 90 to 84 in the single elimination match on Moday night at the John Gray gym.

For Juniors, Jathan Barnes top scored with 28 points, 5 steals, 5 rebounds; Marcus Fletcher followed with 19 points, 6 rebounds, 3 steals, 2 blocks; Keller Wilson added 12 points, 4 steals; Jeheil Henry contributed 9 points. The highest rebounder for the team was Noel Squire with 7.

For Celltronics, Daniel Mowatt led the charge with 29 points, Damion Powell followed with 19 points, 20 rebounds, 2 steals, Davion Foster added 13 points, 11 rebounds and Gavin Reid contributed 10 points, 5 steals, 5 rebounds. Rick Henry aka Broklyn grabbe 18 rebouds with 7 points.

Though Celltronics lost the battle they clearly beat the Juniors on the boards and were point for point with their opponents…so what happened? Celltronics had a small bench and with two key players fouling out, there was not enough depth on the team to keep up with the Juniors who took advantage of this opportunity to advance to the semi-finals.

WU Juniors will now face 1st seed Burger King Warriors in the semi-finals this week.

All CIBA games are played at the John Gray Gumnasium.

Sol Blazers Win Again!

The Sol Blazers have again been crowned as the CIBA National Division 1 Men’s Champions for the 4th consecutive year.

Defending Champions Sol Blazers, swept IRG Astros 83 points to 78 points, in an off your seat, nail biting and thrilling final in the second game of the best of 3 series, to become once again the National Men’s Basketball Champions for 2019.

This will be Blazers’ 7th title and 4 straight Championship.

Sol Blazers:

· Samuel O’Garro – 28 pts, 8 rebs, 4 as, 2 sts

· Kevin Maxwell – 15 pts, 16 rebs, 1 bl

· Ben Jacobson – 14 pts, 14 rebs, 4 as, 2 sts

· Shaad O’Garro – 12 pts, 12 rebounds, 8 as, 4 sts, 4 bls

IRG Astros:

· Jerome Narcisse – 28 pts, 6 rebs, 3 as, 3 sts

· Davion Cotterell – 16 pts, 10 rebs, 6 as, 2 sts, 2 bls

· Jake Whittaker – 10 pts, 9 rebs, 1 as, 2 bls

Warriors Hold Off Sol Blazers

The Warriors defeated the defending champions – Sol Blazers at Clifton Hunter High School Gymnasium last night.  The Blazers came out firing on all cylinders, jumping out to an early lead; but the Warriors switched their defense to keep the Blazers off the glass: it paid off!  Back came the warriors with a reckless abandon, erasing a 12 point deficit.  From there, both teams would trade baskets and runs the entire game, but the Warriors would take the lead with 2 minutes to go and not look back.  In the dying seconds of the game, only down by 1 point, the Blazers stole the ball and attacked the basket for what seemed to be a definite lead change and possibly a game winner.  But the Warriors’ Kenval Bryan had a different idea!  Bryan leaped into the air and pasted the Blazer’s shot attempt against the backboard in what can only be described as a look-alike to Lebron James’ game winning block in last year’s NBA finals. Final Score – 70-67. 

For the Warriors, Collin Anglin led all Scorers with 26 points, 9 rebounds and 2 steals while Omari Corbin added a monster 18 point, 20 rebound game. Kenval Bryan added 18 points, 15 rebounds and 3 blocks. 

For the Blazers: Kevin Maxwell Led the way with 23 points, 18 rebounds and 2 blocks while Philip Reid added 17 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. 

Watch the interview below as Dionne Anglin interviewed him.  She was a true sport because she had just finished playing in her season opener right before the men’s game.

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!  

Sol Blazers Remain Undefeated

The defending champions are continuing the dominance throughout the National Men’s League 2017 Season.  Although they aren’t doing it in the emphatic fashion as in past seasons, the Blazers are still a force to be reckoned with.  Off season trades saw the exit of started Deandre Simpson (who went to the Warriors) and Davie Cotterell (who went to the Silver Bullets) but the Veteran Kevin Maxwell and Triple Double Monster Shaad O’Garro are holding the fort with their team.  They Look forward to the return of Samuel O’Garro when he returns from his professional season in Germany.  On April 9th the Blazers took on Fix-It Celltronics in a fast paced, physical game.  Although Celltronics were keeping within striking distance, the Blazers never trailed during the game and didn’t seem to be bothered by the fact that their opponents lingered near.

Celltronics 63 points v Sol Blazers 76 points

  • Winner- Sol Blazers – Josh Cotterell 19 pts; 9 rebs; 2 as; 1 st, Kevin Maxwell 15 pts; 18 rebs; 1 as; 2sts; 2 bls, Nicholas Beverly 12 pts; 7 rebs
  • Losing Team – Celltronics – Davion Foster 20 pts; 15 rebs; 2 bls, Daniel Mowatt 17 pts; 7 rebs
Warriors Edge Past Hoopsters

The undefeated Warriors took on the young Hoopsters team at the Clifton Hunter High School on April 9th.  The Hoopsters came out with a full court press and took an early lead; in fact, they would lead for 90% of the game and it wasn’t until the final 5 minutes of the game that the Warriors would see their first lead.  This game proved experience over youth as the Warriors stuck to their strategy of attacking the basket and getting a few key Hoopsters into foul trouble. 

Hoopsters 65 points v Warriors 74 points

  • Winner – Warriors – Collin Anglin 31 pts; 2 as; 2 sts,  Kenval Bryan 15 pts; 12 rebs; 3 as; 1 st; 3 bls, Andrew Wisdom 13 pts; 22 rebs; 3 sts
  • Losing Team – Hoopsters Jamaal Miller 19 pts; 9 rebs; 3 as; 4 sts; 1 bl, Juawon Ebanks 17 pts; 7 rebs; 3 as; 3 sts, Jamel Winton 13 pts; 7 rebs; 3 as; 3 sts