History of Jamaica Basketball
B
asketball had a relatively early beginning in Jamaica. Although the source of its introduction is unknown, it is documented that in the 1940’s the Chinese were the first to formally organize the sport by creating recreational organizations that competed against each other. Two of the best teams were the United Chinese, and the Minh Chee Basketball Clubs. Blacks, who were the majority of the population became prominently involved in the sport in the 1960’s.
It was also during this period that the pioneers of the sport at a school level – namely, Mr. Douglas Forrest, Head Master of Kingston College, and Mr. Ken Neale of St. Catherine All Age School — became involved. Despite facing many social and financial challenges, both men forged ahead with the development of the sport by creating the first school league.
In 1962 Jamaica hosted the ninth Central American and Caribbean games in Kingston. For fourteen days — August 15th to the 28th – the island welcomed over 1,500 athletes representing 15 countries. However, despite a valiant effort, the basketball team was unable to place in the medal round.For many years following, the sport flounder as it failed to grasp the population’s interest as Forrest and Neale had hoped. In the late 60’s Mr. Winston “RV” Harvey and Winston White started a major reorganization effort. The result can be seen today. By 1971 the Schools’ League was restarted, an Open League added to the schedule, and national teams selected from the more talented players in both leagues. The all-volunteer Jamaica Basketball Association (JaBA) was also created. Local businesses — such as Red Stripe Beer, Modern Furnishing, Berger Paints, Jamaica Telephone Company and National Continental Foods — became actively involved through corporate sponsorship. By then, the face of the game had changed with many Blacks actively participating in the sport.
Meet our team
Adipiscing elit, sed do euismod tempor incidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco.
