Kofi Cockburn Delivers Another Stellar Season for Hiroshima and Jamaica
Jamaican 🇯🇲 international Kofi Cockburn continued to dominate the Japan B.League during the 2025–2026 season with the @hiroshimadragonflies. Each game he anchored the team with a near double-double performance, averaging 17.2 points and 9.7 rebounds per game across 56 matches. His efficiency remained elite, shooting 60.6% from the field while contributing 2 assists and 2.4 blocks per outing. Although the Dragonflies secured a 31–29 mid level record, Kofi’s season had bright moments which included a standout performance earlier this month where he recorded a game-high 34 points and 16 rebounds. On the career front, Cockburn reached a major milestone early in the campaign by entering the 1,500-point club, ultimately finishing the season with 1,893 career points so far. Cockburn’s blend of rim protection, scoring efficiency, and leadership continues to solidify his status as one of the league’s premier centers and a key ambassador for Jamaican basketball on the global stage.
Jamaica Basketball Signs Historic Kit Partnership With Adidas
The Jamaica Basketball Association (JaBA) today announced a landmark partnership with adidas, making it the first-ever apparel sponsorship agreement in the history of Jamaican national basketball. The deal, brokered by leading sports consultancy Business 2 Sports Group, marks a defining moment not only for Jamaican basketball, but for sport in the Caribbean region. Under the agreement, adidas will serve as the official kit supplier and apparel partner of the Jamaica Men’s National Basketball Team. In a historic first, the Jamaican national basketball kit will be made available for purchase by fans worldwide, a milestone that signals the growing global profile of the sport in Jamaica. “This is a proud day for Jamaican basketball and for our nation,” said Paulton Gordon, President of the Jamaica Basketball Association. “Partnering with a global powerhouse like adidas affirms what we have always believed, that Jamaican basketball belongs on the world stage. We are grateful to adidas for believing in our programme.” As a committed supporter of the Jamaica national basketball programme in the lead-up to the FIBA Men’s Basketball World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifiers, adidas has provided the team with apparel and equipment as the squad has built toward one of the most important campaigns in its history. “This partnership is rooted in shared heritage and cultural connection. Jamaica has always been an important part of our global football story, and through our longstanding relationship with the Marley family, this felt like a natural extension of that legacy into basketball,” said Cam Mason, Head of adidas Sports Marketing Basketball. Central to this partnership is the deep and enduring relationship between adidas and the Bob & Rita Marley Foundation. The Foundation, led by Cedella Marley, CEO of the Bob Marley Group of Companies, Grammy-winning singer, author, designer, and Marley’s daughter, together with her son, Saiyan Marley-Minto, have served as a driving force behind the development of basketball in Jamaica. As a title sponsor of the national team’s FIBA World Cup qualifying campaign and with Cedella named as the official ambassador of JaBA, the Foundation has been committed to growing the sport from the grassroots level upward: funding court renovations, equipment, and youth development programmes, and leveraging its global network to raise the profile of Jamaican basketball on the world stage. In partnership with JaBA, the Foundation has facilitated school visits, equipment donations, and engagement with elite international athletes to inspire the next generation of Jamaican ballers. About the Jamaica Basketball Association The Jamaica Basketball Association is the governing body for basketball in Jamaica, responsible for the development and promotion of the sport at all levels, including the men’s and women’s national teams competing in FIBA international competitions. About adidas adidas is a global leader in the sporting goods industry, with the core brands adidas and Reebok. Headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany, adidas employs more than 59,000 people worldwide and generates sales in excess of €21 billion annually.
Jamaica Drops Second Home Game to Canada
Team Jamaica suffered a second consecutive home defeat in the FIBA Americas World Cup Qualifiers, falling 97-81 to Canada at the National Indoor Sports Centre yesterday. Canada controlled the game from the tip-off, leveraging superior shooting efficiency to secure their fourth straight victory. Jamaica struggled with accuracy, shooting just 34% from the field. In contrast, Canada was clinical, hitting 51% overall and draining 13 of 26 three-pointers. The visitors raced to an early lead with back-to-back threes by Nate Darling. Charles Bediako capped the first quarter with an alley-oop as the visitors took a 27-19 lead. By halftime, Canada had extended their advantage to 49-36, and they maintained a 20-point cushion heading into the final period. Tyran De Lattibeaudiere led Jamaica with a game-high 23 points and 10 rebounds. He was supported by Andrew Thelwell (12) and Chase Audige (11). For Canada, Marcus Carr (17), Kyle Wiltjer (16), and Kassius Robertson (15) led a balanced attack. Group B Standings Canada remains atop Group B with a perfect 4-0 record (8 points). Jamaica sits second with a 2-2 record (6 points). Puerto Rico moved into third place with 5 points after defeating Bahamas 71-66, holding the head-to-head advantage over Bahamas, who also have 5 points. Next Steps Jamaica’s quest to reach the final round continues with two away games: 1. July 3: @ Bahamas (Nassau) 2. July 6: @ Canada (Hamilton, Ontario) A win in either of these final qualifiers is crucial for Jamaica to secure a top-three spot and advance.
Jamaica Falls to Bahamas in Heartbreaking Home Opener
Jamaica missed a crucial opportunity to advance in FIBA World Cup qualifying after surrendering a nine-point lead to lose 99-96 to The Bahamas in front of a packed National Indoor Sports Centre on Friday. Despite strong performances from Chase Audige (27 points) and Kofi Cockburn (18 points, 12 rebounds), the team could not hold off a late surge by Franco Miller (32 points) and the Bahamians. The loss marks Jamaica’s first defeat in the group stage, dropping them to second in Group B with five points. Head Coach Rick Turner expressed deep disappointment, stating the team failed to capitalize on the historic occasion of hosting international basketball in Jamaica for the first time. “It’s an incredible missed opportunity… to go out there and not really put our best foot forward is just super disappointing,” Turner said, citing a lack of communication and the team’s inability to lock in during critical moments. Bahamas Coach Moses Johnson acknowledged the intensity of the home environment but praised his team’s resilience in a game that saw 15 lead changes. Looking Ahead Jamaica now faces an uphill battle against group leaders Canada (6 points) on Sunday. A victory is essential to secure a spot in the final round as one of the top three teams. Turner emphasized the need to return to the “us against the world” mentality that fueled their earlier success in Puerto Rico. “We just had a weird vibe that it never felt like us… we need to get it figured out before the fifth-ranked team in the world comes in,” Turner noted. The Bahamas, now on four points, remain in third place but could overtake Jamaica with a win against Puerto Rico in their next matchup.
Jamaica One Win Away from FIBA World Cup Final Round
With Jamaica on the brink of securing a spot in the final round of FIBA World Cup Qualifying, Head Coach Rick Turner is calling for a packed house as the national men’s team faces Bahamas tonight at the National Indoor Sports Centre in Kingston (6:10 pm). Coming off back-to-back victories against Puerto Rico, the squad, led by captain Kentan Facey, Kofi Cockburn, and Chase Audige are in peak condition. This marks the team’s first official home game, offering fans a chance to witness elite international basketball after November’s hosting duties were canceled. “We want to pack the building and make it difficult on our opponent,” Turner said, emphasizing the importance of home-court energy. Despite ranking lower in FIBA Americas, Jamaica faces a formidable Bahamas side that narrowly missed the 2024 Olympics. A win tonight would move Jamaica to six points in Group B, virtually guaranteeing advancement and keeping Olympic aspirations alive. “Making the World Cup and Olympics was our goal from the start,” Turner noted. “This victory would keep us on that journey.”
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 Announces First-Ever eNational Team for eFIBA World Championship
The Jamaica Basketball Association proudly unveils the roster for its inaugural eNational Basketball Team, set to compete on the global stage in the FIBA World Championship (eFIBA). This groundbreaking moment is powered by the Bob and Rita Marley Foundation (BRMF) and marks Jamaica’s official entry into the world of esports basketball, where national pride meets digital competition. Representing Jamaica are: Cristian Benjamin Curt Daley Fong Haughton Richards (Captain) Derek Walcott Shemar WilliamsGuiding the team is D’Andre Forbes, serving as Team Manager. About eFIBAFIBA is redefining basketball’s global reach through innovation and eFIBA is leading the charge. As the official esports basketball competition organized by FIBA, eFIBA brings together national federations from across the globe to battle for the coveted World Championship title played on NBA 2K26 (PlayStation 5). Tournament FormatThe journey begins January 23, 2026, with the Pre-Qualifiers: 8 teams split into two groups of 4 Round-robin format Top 3 teams from each group advance to the Regional Qualifiers on February 28 From there, it’s double-elimination warfare: The top 4 teams get two chances to secure their place in the final The Regional Finals take place on March 1, 2026 A Global ShowdownThis is more than a game — it’s a global showdown powered by precision, passion, and pixels. Jamaica’s eNational team is ready to create history, showcase skill, resilience, and the spirit of the island on the esports court.
National Senior Team Partners with Bob & Rita Marley Foundation, National Baking and Rainforest for FIBA WCQualifiers
Jamaica’s National Men’s Basketball Team continues its historic rise on the international stage as it continues its successful partnership with Cedella Marley and title sponsor, The Bob and Rita Marley Foundation, as well as National Baking Company Foundation, and Rainforest in its ongoing campaign to qualify for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027. The momentum began during the FIBA World Cup 2027 Americas Pre-Qualifiers in August 2025 in Ciudad Obregón, Mexico, where Jamaica delivered a thrilling 80-76 overtime victory over Costa Rica, led by NBA standout Norman Powell, scoring 34 points. In the same round, Jamaica fell to host nation Mexico 90–61, as the team battled food poisoning throughout the tournament. Despite the setback, Jamaica secured second place in the group, advancing alongside an undefeated Mexico squad to the next round of qualifiers. This resilience set the stage for a defining moment this past November, when Jamaica’s men, ranked 95th, delivered a stunning two-game sweep of 16th ranked Puerto Rico in the FIBA Basketball World Cup Americas Qualifiers, winning 92-90 and 97-92 in San Juan. These victories marked one of the most significant upsets in recent Caribbean basketball history and signaled a new level of belief within the program. Led by Captain Kentan Facey and dominant performances from Kofi Cockburn, Jamaica demonstrated its depth and determination. Cockburn recorded 26 points and 15 rebounds in game one and followed with 15 points and 12 rebounds in game two. He was supported by strong contributions from Chase Audige (20 points), Romaine Thomas (18 points), and Tyran De Lattibeaudiere (15 points). Now, the journey continues, and comes home. Jamaica is proud to announce that the next round of the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers will take place in Kingston, Jamaica, at the team’s home arena The National Indoor Sports Centre. Games will be played on February 26, and March 1st with tickets going on sale soon. Bringing the qualifiers to Kingston is the result of careful planning and strong partnerships coming together at the right moment. These games are expected to be a landmark moment for Jamaican basketball, and national sport as a whole. “We are incredibly grateful to all of our sponsors The Bob and Rita Marley Foundation, the National Baking Company Foundation, and Rainforest for their support as we continue this historic run,” shares Head Coach Rick Turner. “Bringing World Cup qualifiers to Kingston is a milestone for our program and our country, and we’re excited to create an unforgettable moment for Jamaican sports fans.” With momentum building, belief growing, and home-court advantage ahead, Jamaica’s national team is poised and ready to make history.
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. 🇯🇲🏀🔥