Aaliyah Edwards Traded to WNBA Connecticut Sun
In a major trade ahead of the WNBA’s deadline on August 7th, the Washington Mystics sent rising star Aaliyah Edwards to the Connecticut Sun. In exchange, the Mystics will receive Jacy Sheldon and a first-round pick swap. Despite a strong rookie campaign where she averaged 7.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists, Edwards has struggled through a difficult sophomore season with the Mystics. Plagued by injuries, including a lower back contusion and a wrist issue, her playing time has significantly decreased from 21.8 minutes per game to just 13.3. As a result, Edwards’ production has also dipped, with averages of 6.0 points and 3.3 rebounds in 21 appearances this year. However, the young forward has shown immense potential throughout her professional career, both in the WNBA and with Unrivaled. The Connecticut Sun, currently 9-27 as they embark on a major rebuild, are hoping that Edwards can be a key building block for their future.
Jamaica’s Quest Continues: Mexico Win Doesn’t Deter Advancement
Jamaica succumbed to Mexico 90-61 on Sunday, finishing with a 2-1 record. Despite a valiant effort, we fell short of our goal of a perfect record in the FIBA World Cup 2027 Americas Pre-Qualifiers, held at the ITSON Arena in Ciudad Obregón, Mexico. Key Performances Romaro Gill led the team with 14 points and 13 rebounds, while Romaine Thomas added 11 points and 6 boards. Unfortunately, Captain Norman Powell was unable to suit up for the game. Looking Ahead Although we didn’t achieve our goal of a perfect record, we’re proud of our team’s efforts and look forward to the next stage of competition.
Powell’s Heroics Lead Jamaica to Thrilling 80-76 Win
Jamaica’s captain Norman Powell delivered a superhero performance, leading Jamaica to a 80-76 victory over Costa Rica in a closely contested match that went into overtime. Powell’s 34-point effort was complemented by 3 crucial steals, including several key plays in overtime that gave Jamaica a 9-5 advantage and breathing room to hold on for the victory. Jamaica Advances to Qualifying Round With this win, Jamaica has secured two consecutive victories in the FIBA World Cup 2027 Americas Pre-Qualifiers and has advanced to the Qualifying Round in November.
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 Enters Final Prep Phase in Florida
The Senior Men’s National Team has kicked off its training camp in Florida, locking in focus ahead of the FIBA World Cup 2027 Americas Pre-Qualifiers. Head Coach Nick Turner is energized by the roster’s commitment over the crucial next seven days. “Our main goal is building chemistry,” Turner said. “We’re working on getting 11, 12 guys playing in sync—communicating, learning each other’s tendencies, and moving unselfishly. It’s all about the time spent on the floor together. That’s what builds winning basketball.” With talent, heart, and unity on the rise, Team Jamaica is pushing toward peak form.
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. 🏀👑
Spurs Guard Devin Vassell Signals Interest in Representing Jamaica
San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell has expressed a strong desire to represent Jamaica on the international basketball stage and has pledged to rally other NBA players of Jamaican descent to join the movement. His statement comes as the Jamaica Basketball Association (JaBA) continues its push to strengthen the national team with top-tier talent. Speaking at his inaugural basketball clinic at Herbert Morrison Technical High School in Montego Bay, where he donated basketball gear to student athletes from across western Jamaica, Vassell made his intentions clear. “I’m 100 percent willing to play for the national team. I definitely want to play,” Vassell said. “I’ll be reaching out to some of the other guys who have Jamaican ties to see if they’re interested as well. I can’t speak for them, but I can speak for myself, I want to represent Jamaica.” Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Vassell is eligible to wear the black, green, and gold thanks to his father, Andrew, a native of Runaway Bay, St. Ann. JaBA President Paulton Gordon welcomed Vassell’s commitment, describing it as a major step toward reconnecting diaspora players with their roots. “We’re elated. It aligns perfectly with our goal to ensure that every player with Jamaican heritage has a clear path to represent the country,” Gordon said. While Gordon acknowledged the abundance of homegrown talent, he emphasized that nearly half of Jamaica’s basketball potential lies overseas. He said JaBA is actively working to merge diaspora resources players and coaches alike with local programs to elevate the national setup. Still, challenges remain. Under current FIBA regulations, players must acquire their passport before the age of 16 to represent a country without restriction. Although three NBA players already meet this requirement, Gordon noted that others are in the process of securing Jamaican citizenship. “There’s a window for appeal through FIBA, based on a player’s connection to the country,” Gordon explained. “We’re working that avenue to bring more elite players on board.” Gordon expressed confidence that these efforts will lay the groundwork for a powerful Jamaican national team capable of competing in the FIBA Americas, World Cup qualifiers, and even the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. Among those eligible to represent Jamaica through paternal lineage are Toronto Raptors All-Star Scottie Barnes and Detroit Pistons forward Isaiah Stewart. Norman Powell (Los Angeles Clippers) and Josh Minott (Minnesota Timberwolves) have already committed and are expected to suit up for the FIBA World Cup Americas Pre-Qualifiers in August. Twin brothers Amen and Ausar Thompson, of the Houston Rockets and Detroit Pistons respectively, have also shown interest and have already acquired Jamaican passports.