Buckfield 3×3 Signals Revival of Organized Hoops in Jamaica’s Northern Conference
After a lengthy hiatus from organized basketball activity in Jamaica’s Northern Conference, the Buckfield 3×3 Basketball Tournament has delivered exactly the kind of spark the region needed. Held in Ocho Rios, the event was met with an enthusiastic response from both players and fans, signaling that appetite for the sport remains very much alive in St. Ann and St. Mary. More than 40 players showed up to compete, with teams travelling from as far as Kingston and Montego Bay to battle for cash prizes, trophies, and medals. The turnout left organizers visibly elated and validated their decision to bring competitive basketball back to the north. The Jamaica Basketball Association (JaBA) lent its full support to the initiative. Khurt Comrie, JaBA’s 2nd Vice President, was on hand at the event and donated the championship trophy on behalf of the Association. “What was good is that the organizers on the ground here in Ocho Rios saw the need to get basketball bouncing again,” said Comrie. “They reached out for support and we couldn’t miss the opportunity to help restart basketball in St. Ann and St. Mary, and this is just a first step to doing so.” What made the occasion even more significant is that the Buckfield 3×3 is a certified FIBA 3×3 event. That designation means every player who competed earned official FIBA 3×3 ranking points, which will contribute to the continued improvement of Jamaica’s standing in international 3×3 basketball. On the court, Hoopers from St. Ann were crowned Champions, claiming top honours in front of a home crowd. Team Unknown from Montego Bay put in a strong performance to finish as runners-up, while Buckfield rounded out the podium in third place. The event is being celebrated not only as a competitive success, but as a community one, proof that when local organizers and national bodies work together, basketball can thrive anywhere on the island. JaBA looks forward to building on this momentum as part of a broader effort to grow the game throughout Jamaica’s northern parishes.
St. Andrew Technical are 2026 Under 14 Champions
The Jamaica Basketball Association (JaBA) successfully hosted the Girls Under-14 Basketball Tournament on Friday, May 22, 2026 at the National Stadium, Kingston. Endorsed by the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) and supported by the Bob & Rita Marley Foundation and Gatorade, the tournament ran from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM a full and action-packed day of competition, community, and celebration of women’s youth basketball in Jamaica. Four high schools participated in this inaugural edition, each fielding a squad of young athletes eager to compete on the national stage. While the event served as a regenerated pilot, a test of concept and logistics, proving that structured girls’ basketball at the U14 level is not only possible, but necessary, and long overdue. HOW THE DAY UNFOLDED From the opening tip-off to the final whistle, the atmosphere at the National Stadium was electric. Teams arrived with energy and enthusiasm, representing their schools with pride. The day was structured to balance competitive basketball with moments of rest, fun, and community spirit. The morning session opened with the group stage matches, with all four teams competing in a round-robin format. As midday arrived, teams paused for a well-earned break, with players and coaches enjoying lunch and rehydration. The intermission was not just for rest. A highlight of the day came with the introduction of a shooting contest, a skills challenge that drew players from across all four teams to go head-to-head outside of match play. Coaches also got in on the action, with their own separate contest that had the crowd cheering and the atmosphere buzzing. Winners of both contests walked away with branded merchandise including towels, caps, and apparel. With spirits high and legs refreshed, the playoff rounds resumed in the afternoon, building toward a thrilling conclusion. MATCH RESULTS The tournament was played in a round-robin group stage followed by a 3rd place playoff and a Final. Winners of each match are highlighted below. GROUP STAGE # HOME TEAM AWAY TEAM TOP SCORER 1 Camperdown 2 vs 10 STATHS Jenoa Burrell — 8 pts 2 Holy Childhood 0 vs 22 Vauxhall Kymia Linton — 12 pts 3 Camperdown 10 vs 4 Holy Childhood Sydia Jeffrey — 6 pts 4 STATHS 4 vs 6 Vauxhall Terveen Gordon — 4 pts 5 Camperdown 4 vs 10 Vauxhall Kymia Linton — 5 pts 6 STATHS 31 vs 3 Holy Childhood Jenoa Burrell — 19 pts PLAYOFFS # HOME TEAM AWAY TEAM TOP SCORER 7 Camperdown 8 vs 6 Holy Childhood Syria Jeffrey — 6 pts 3rd Place 8 STATHS 16 vs 1 Vauxhall Jenoa Burrell — 10 pts 🏆 FINAL FINAL STANDINGS SCHOOL RESULT 1st St. Andrew Technical High School (STATHS) CHAMPIONS 2nd Vauxhall High School Runners-Up 3rd Camperdown High School 3rd Place 4th Holy Childhood High School 4th Place INDIVIDUAL AWARDS AWARD PLAYER SCHOOL Most Valuable Player Jenoa Burrell STATHS Top Scorer Jenoa Burrell (39 pts overall) STATHS Top Defensive Player Aaliyah Lewis Holy Childhood High School
JaBA and ISSA Restarts Girls U14 Basketball Tournament
The Jamaica Basketball Association (JaBA), in partnership with ISSA, will launch the inaugural Girls Under-14 Basketball Tournament on Friday, May 22, 2026 at the National Stadium, tip-off 9:00 AM. The event revives competitive basketball for young female athletes, filling a crucial gap in Jamaica’s development pathway. 144 players from 12 Kingston schools are expected to compete, gaining vital experience for future national team progression. “This tournament is the foundation of a movement,” said JaBA General Secretary Makeisha Robinson. “We are committed to giving Jamaica’s young women the platform they deserve to compete, grow, and represent the nation.” JaBA plans to expand the U14 tournament nationwide with regional qualifiers leading to a championship, ensuring structured youth basketball across Jamaica. By targeting U14 athletes, JaBA and ISSA are investing in the long-term future of Jamaica’s women’s basketball, aligning with international best practices and raising visibility for girls’ sports. A NATIONAL VISION: PHASED EXPANSION FROM 2027 What begins as a 12-team competition in Kingston is only the starting point. JaBA has outlined an ambitious phased expansion plan beginning in 2027, with the goal of rolling out the Girls U14 Tournament nationwide bringing structured, ISSA-endorsed youth basketball to every corner of Jamaica. The expansion roadmap envisions regional qualifying rounds feeding into a national championship, creating a sustainable and scalable competition structure that will serve Jamaica’s young female athletes for generations to come. TOURNAMENT PARTNERS This year’s Girls U14 Basketball Tournament is made possible through the generous support of two distinguished Jamaican institutions: Bob & Rita Marley Foundation – Official Support Partner A cornerstone of Jamaican cultural and humanitarian legacy, the Bob & Rita Marley Foundation brings tremendous prestige and community significance to this tournament. Their partnership underscores the deep connection between Jamaican culture, community development, and youth empowerment values that sit at the heart of this competition. TAD Water — Official Hydration Partner TAD Water, Jamaica’s homegrown flavoured bottled water brand, steps in as the Official Hydration Partner for the event, ensuring all 144 athletes, coaching staff, and match officials remain fuelled and refreshed throughout the tournament day. TAD Water branding will feature prominently at the venue, on signage, and on the shirts of match officials placing the brand at the centre of this landmark sporting occasion.
Williams Targets Profitability for 2026 NBL Season
In an initiative to revitalize Jamaica’s struggling National Basketball League (NBL), the Jamaica Basketball Association (JaBA) has appointed Christopher Williams as the chairman of the league’s commercial operations. Williams, formerly the head of the Jamaica Premier League (JPL), has made it clear that his primary mandate is to generate profit. He expressed confidence in the NBL’s potential, citing Jamaica’s strategic location, strong national brand, and the global appeal of basketball as key assets. Williams is currently finalizing business, expense, and revenue strategies to present to JaBA executives. Drawing on his five-year tenure building the JPL, he identifies sponsorship and gate receipts as the league’s top revenue streams. While broadcasting will serve marketing purposes, he does not expect significant income from it due to the challenges of selling content in the streaming era. Instead, the plan includes securing a title sponsor to merge brands with the league and ensuring each team has its own corporate associate for financial stability. The proposed schedule runs from July to September, with games hosted at the National Arena to enhance fan experience. The playoffs will feature dancehall artists and other celebrities to boost excitement. Williams has also devised a strategy to avoid conflicts with the 2026 World Cup, planning to hold the NBL playoffs after the tournament’s early rounds when the schedule becomes more spaced out. JaBA President Paulton Gordon emphasized the goal of establishing a semi-professional local league that can serve as a feeder for regional and international competitions. He noted that Williams’ proven success with the JPL made him the ideal candidate to drive this vision forward. Williams aims to achieve profitability within his first year, with promotions already underway and sponsors showing confidence in the new direction.
Jamaica Gear Up for Historic FIBA World Cup Qualifiers in Kingston
Jamaica’s National Senior Men’s Basketball team, the JamRockerz, held a two-hour training session on Monday at the National Indoor Sports Centre as they gear up for crucial FIBA Americas World Cup Qualifiers in Kingston. The JamRockerz face the Bahamas on Thursday at the Indoor Centre at 6PM, before taking on Canada at the same venue on Sunday. Coach Rick Turner has retained the same squad that delivered back-to-back victories over Puerto Rico in San Juan late last year, with the Jamaican players having arrived on the island within the last 24 hours. Half of the Bahamas contingent has already touched down, with the remainder expected to arrive late Monday, ahead of their first training session on Tuesday. Jamaica Basketball Association President Paulton Gordon says things are falling nicely into place ahead of the two games. While Jamaica was forced to play their home leg against Puerto Rico in Puerto Rico last November, Gordon confirmed that it’s now all systems go for Thursday and Sunday. Jamaica and Canada currently share the lead in Group B, both sitting on four points following back-to-back victories over Puerto Rico and the Bahamas respectively.
Jamaica’s Dominant Win in FIBA World Cup 2027 Americas Pre-Qualifiers
The Jamaica National Team has secured a resounding 101-79 victory over Barbados in their first group phase match of the FIBA World Cup 2027 Americas Pre-Qualifiers, played in Mexico. Standout Performances: Next Match: The Jamaica National Team will face Costa Rica on Saturday at 6PM Jamaica time. Next Match: The Jamaica National Team will face Costa Rica on Saturday at 6PM Jamaica time.
Jamaica Poised for Pre-Qualifier Battlefield with Norman Powell Leading the Charge
Jamaica’s Men’s National Team🇯🇲 is locked in and ready for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Pre-Qualifiers in Mexico, with NBA star Norman Powell emerging as the centerpiece of the squad’s high-octane ambitions. The 32-year-old veteran, an NBA champion and proven scorer averaging 21 points per game last season, is bringing elite firepower and leadership to the floor. Head Coach Rick Turner is building the team’s identity around Powell’s dynamic play, vowing to unleash a fast-paced, defensive-minded unit designed to make noise on the global stage. “Everything we do will be built around Norman Powell,” Turner affirmed. “He’s a great player and leader—and we’re ready to push the tempo.”The team is currently training hard in Florida, focused on syncing up and sharpening team chemistry before their opening matchup on Friday against Barbados. Costa Rica follows on Saturday, with a blockbuster Sunday clash against hosts Mexico. Only the top two finishers in Group A will advance, and Jamaica’s mission is clear: three games, three wins, no excuses. “I’m proud to wear the Jamaican uniform and give my all,” Powell said, visibly energized by the journey ahead. The rhythm is set, the team is buzzing, and the battle cry is real. 🇯🇲🏀🔥
Jamaica Set to Battle for World Cup Qualification Spot in Mexico
Team Jamaica is gearing up for an exciting opportunity to secure its place in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifiers. The squad will compete in Group A of the Americas Pre-Qualifiers, hosted at ITSON Arena in Ciudad Obregón, Mexico, from August 8 to 10. Joining Jamaica in Group A are host nation Mexico, Barbados, and Costa Rica. Each team will face off in a round-robin format, with the top two advancing to the next stage of the World Cup qualifying process.Group B, meanwhile, will be held in Valdivia, Chile, and includes Chile, Cuba, Ecuador, and El Salvador. From both groups, only four teams in total will earn their spot in the Americas Qualifiers. Jamaica is ready to rise to the challenge, unite under the banner of national pride, and push for a place on the global stage. The road to the World Cup starts here and Team Jamaica is locked in.
Kentan Facey Returns to Knox College to Inspire the Next Generation
Professional basketball player Kentan Facey is heading back to where it all began—Knox College in the hills of Clarendon—for a one-day basketball clinic on July 11. The event is designed to uncover emerging talent and ignite the dreams of young Jamaican hoopers, offering them a glimpse of what’s possible through hard work and opportunity. Running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the clinic will feature morning skill-development drills, competitive afternoon games, and a mentorship session where Facey will share his remarkable journey—from rural Trelawny to the professional courts of Europe. “This year I decided to start with a one-day clinic to get a feel for how it would go, and then build from there each year,” Facey explained. “I want to talk about the lessons I’ve learned—on and off the court—and give these kids tools to navigate both sports and life.” Facey, who grew up in the quiet New Road District between Troy and Albert Town, didn’t have early access to basketball. His first exposure came during a visit to his aunt in Kingston, where her husband fashioned a makeshift hoop from a plastic bucket lid and a wall. “We used a football to shoot,” he recalled. “That was my introduction to the game.” His formal basketball journey began at Knox, thanks to a moment of honesty. “I found a $50 bill where the team was changing and gave it to Mr. Oneil Watson. He asked if I wanted to play basketball. I said sure, and he invited me to practice the next day.” Though raw, Facey’s height and potential stood out. He soon attended the Star Search camp at GC Foster College, which opened the door to a scholarship opportunity in the U.S. in 2010. From there, his rise was meteoric winning a state championship, being named New York State Gatorade Player of the Year, and capturing an NCAA title with the University of Connecticut in his freshman year. Now playing professionally in France with Caen Basket Calvados where he recently signed a two-year extension—Facey is funding this year’s clinic largely out of pocket. “Probably 90 percent is self-funded,” he admitted. “But I’ve been in that exact situation, and I know how far that goes for a kid.” He credits mentors like Mr. Watson for shaping his path and hopes to pay it forward. “During my time at Knox, Mr. Watson always found ways to support us whether it was a pair of sneakers or just encouragement. That stuck with me.” Looking ahead, Facey envisions expanding the clinic into a week-long summer event, bringing in teammates and fellow Jamaican-rooted pros like Nick Richards to help elevate the experience. His long-term mission? To open doors.“Sometimes all it takes is one camp, one story, one moment,” Facey said. “That’s what I’m trying to give them—something that sparks belief.”
Josh Minott Signs Two-Year Deal with Boston Celtics
Jamaican-American small forward Josh Minott has signed a two-year, $5.5 million contract with the Boston Celtics, with a team option in the second year. The 22-year-old, originally drafted 45th overall in 2022, spent three seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves but struggled to secure a consistent rotation role. Minott now joins the reigning NBA champions during a transitional period, with Boston expected to rebuild following the loss of key players Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, and the season-long injury to superstar Jayson Tatum. A former standout at the University of Memphis, Minott has also committed to representing Jamaica internationally, having starred for the national team at the 2019 FIBA Centrobasket U17 Championship.
Campion College Dominates Cayman Bulldogs in Hoop Fest Opener
Campion College opened their Cayman Islands Hoop Fest campaign in emphatic fashion last night, cruising to a 67–42 victory over the Cayman Bulldogs. The Jamaican squad credited their strong team chemistry, aggressive defense, and unselfish ball movement as the driving forces behind the commanding win. From the opening tip, Campion set the tone—pressuring the Bulldogs on both ends of the floor and executing with precision. With contributions across the roster, the team showcased the depth and cohesion that have become hallmarks of their program. “We came out with intensity and trusted each other,” said one team member. “Everyone played their role, and that made the difference.”Campion will look to carry that momentum into their next matchup against the Texas Tigers, set for 6:00 PM later today. Another win would put them in a strong position as the tournament heats up.🇯🇲🔥🏀
Urban Knights Clinch Seventh NBL Title in Style
There’s no stopping the Urban Knights—they are now 7-time NBL champions, after defending their crown with a 67-56 victory over the Upper Room Eagles last night at the National Stadium Courts.Down 9-14 after the first quarter, the Knights flipped the script with a composed rally to lead 36-29 at halftime. From there, their defensive grit and offensive rhythm carried them to a commanding win, avoiding a decisive Game 3. Finals MVP, Nicholai Brown, was a force of nature, delivering 26 points, 14 rebounds, 7 blocks, and 2 steals. Ramone Spence poured in 24 points, grabbing 10 rebounds and swiping 5 steals, while Alex Levy added a crucial 10 points, 8 boards, and 2 steals. For the Eagles, Lebron Lewison led with 11 points, 7 assists, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals, supported by Anthony “Flimo” White and Derjean Royal, who each contributed 10 points and 7 boards. The Knights were locked in from tip to buzzer—proving once again why they’re the standard of excellence in the NBL. 🏀👑