• Simba French
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Takaii Adderley took care of Afrika Smith in the quarterfinals of the 2023 Giorgio Baldacci Open Tennis National Championships, at the BLTA’s National Tennis Centre on Tuesday. Adderley won 6-1 and 6-2 and will play Sydney Clarke in her semifinal match today. AP

Sydney Clarke goes after a volley shot during the quarterfinals of the 2023 Giorgio Baldacci Open Tennis National Championships on Tuesday. Clarke defeated BreAnn Ferguson in straight sets, 6-0 and 6-0, and will play Takaii Adderley in her semifinal match today. TORRELL GLINTON

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The 2023 Giorgio Baldacci Open Tennis National Championships, hosted by the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA), heats up today with the semifinals after the quarterfinals wrapped up yesterday afternoon at the BLTA’s National Tennis Centre.

The men’s semifinals get underway at 9 a.m. today on courts number two and six. The women’s semifinals will get underway afterwards on the same courts, but not before 11:30 a.m.

Nottage easily took care of Alec Hooper, 6-0 and 6-1, in his quarterfinal match to get closer to defending his title.

“I am excited to move a step closer to defending my title,” Nottage said. “It has been on the back of my mind all year and now the time is here. I had my sights on this tournament on the calendar so I could come home and defend my title.”

Nottage will go up against Rodney Carey in his semifinal match today. Carey booked a spot in the semifinals with a swift 6-0 and 6-0 victory over Cailan Bowe on court number four yesterday.

The defending champion is looking to stay patient against Carey who is an experienced player.

Mackey turned back teenager Sarai Clarke in straight sets, 6-1 and 6-1, to punch her ticket to the semifinals in the women’s division.

“I had a bit of a slow start at the beginning of the first set,” Mackey said. “It took me a while to get my feet moving but as the match went on, I was able to be more consistent and place more of the balls on the court and go for my shots more.”

She is looking to play confidently and go for her shots.

Simone Pratt will play against Mackey in the semifinals after she won against Jalisa Clarke in straight sets. Pratt won that quarterfinal match, 6-1 and 6-2.

Last year’s runner-up on the women’s side Sydney Clarke won over BreAnn Ferguson in straight sets, 6-0 and 6-0 and will play in the semifinals once again.

“The match went well,” Clarke said. “I had a few errors here and there, but for the most part, I was able to keep my level of play consistent. I did not let my level drop. I had some moments when I was down but I was able to quickly get back and fix minor errors that I made.”https://426a75a064cc49fd837681ee2fdbda8e.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html

She will be looking to bring more energy to her semifinal match today.

Clarke will play against up-and-coming junior player Takaii Adderley who took care of Afrika Smith in the quarterfinals. Adderley was sensational in her match, coming away with a 6-1 and 6-2 victory. The 15-year-old is looking forward to her match against Clarke today.

“She is a great player,” Adderley said of Clarke. “I know that it is not going to be easy so I have to bring my ‘A’ game. I have to come up with a game plan and just stick with it and play my game.”

Michael Major Jr. made it to his first semifinal in the Baldacci nationals, taking down Jerald Carroll in two sets. Major won, 7-6 (7-5) and 6-1.

“He (Carroll) beat me in three sets the last time we played so I expected a tough match. I started a little shaky at the beginning and did not have a feel for the ball. As the match progressed, I felt as if I was getting into rhythm and I knew that after I won the first set, I knew I already had a rhythm and it was going to be easier in the second. I remained calm and not overplaying is what helped me,” Major said.

Veteran Baker Newman was on a battlefield against Donte Armbrister as that match required three sets. Newman came out on top to set up a battle against Major in the semifinals. Newman won the first set 7-6 (7-5) and Armbrister won the second set 7-5. Newman dug deep and won the third set 6-3.

The finalists of the men and women’s divisions will book spots on the national teams. The men’s team plays in the Davis Cup tournament while the women’s team plays in the Billie Jean King Cup tournament.

• Dec 20, 2023 Updated 10 hrs ago
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The Bahamas Star Gymnastics Xcel Bronze squad of Jayda Smith, Rielle Whylly, Keianna King, Ambrielle Braynen, Alexa Demeritte and Brianna Dorceus placed second in the team standings of the Atlantis Crown Gymnastics Invitational, that was held at the Atlantis resort on Paradise Island over the weekend. Shown from left are Smith, Whylly, King, Braynen, Demeritte and Dorceus.

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The Atlantis Crown Gymnastics Invitational was once again hosted at the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island, drawing over 1,000 athletes representing several teams from the United States and The Bahamas.

The young athletes competed for a 10.0 perfect score in artistic gymnastics and trampoline and tumbling, emerging as individual medalists and team finalists in the Xcel Bronze and Xcel Silver divisions. The Bahamas was represented by a small squad of 10 athletes from Bahamas Star Gymnastics (BSG).

On Friday afternoon, the Xcel Bronze team was led by lead scorer Keianna King with her debut performance with a 38.025 All Around. Her squad mates of Brianna Dorceus, Ambrielle Braynen, Alexa Demeritte and Jayda Smith contributed to the 2nd Place Team final ranking among six teams. Only three teams were awarded a podium position.

King’s score of 38.025 was the highest for club and country and ranked 12th highest of more than 900 athletes in the event.

On Sunday morning, the Xcel Silver team delivered exceptional performances and earned fourth place in the team standings with only four of nine teams awarded. This Xcel Silver squad’s leading scorer was Amelia Francis who teamed up with squad mates Ja’Layah Absolu, Te’Karria Cartwright and Nylah Symonette. This team had to push hard and dig deep as the competition was stiff. The third and fourth place teams were separated by a tenth of a point.

Celebrated in the awards ceremony with the ringing sound of cowbells, the clinking sound of multiple medals mixed harmoniously throughout the weekend.

“Our athletes worked hard, our coaches worked hard, our parents supported with sacrifices and this is the paradigm which works for our club,” remarked an excited program director Nicola Thompson.

“All of our competitors medaled and in some cases earned first place in individual apparatus and in the all around standings. It was most impressive to observe how well each of our athletes remained focused, gave their best efforts and even if they underperformed their personal best, they remained sportmanslike throughout the event,” said squad coach Makiya Cargill.https://f9ab1d770f1af2ba1c2cd8441fd3e692.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html

“Our focus on training all of our athletes, whether competitive or recreational, is to encourage and draw out each gymnast’s potential and guide them on optimizing their strengths,” noted technical coach Tenille Desulme.

Bahamas Star Gymnastics launched in 2010 and now trains at its facility in the Christian Life Centre on JFK Drive. The club’s success in the sport has been tracked, documented and analyzed since its inception. Club athletes perform well at meets hosted here in The Bahamas and abroad.

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NATIONAL champion Devaughn Robinson (second from right) receives his awards from BPGA president Glen Pratt, BGF president Lynford Miller and tournament director Vernon Lockhart. Photo: Moise Amisial

As of Monday, December 18, 2023

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WOMEN’s champion Georgette Rolle-Harris (second from left) receives her trophy from BPGA president Glen Pratt, runner-up and BPGA secretary Racquel Riley and tournament director Vernon Lockhart. Photos: Moise Amisial

SENIOR men’s champion Greg Maycock gets his trophy from tournament director Vernon Lockhart.

HONOUREE Vernon Lockhart receives his award from BPGA president Glen Pratt.

#By BRENT STUBBS

#Senior Sports Reporter

#bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

#Despite the inclement weather, the Bahamas Professional Golfers Association’s National Golf Championships at the Ocean Club on Paradise Island over the weekend turned out to be the Devaughn Robinson show.

#As predicted in his pre-tournament interview, Robinson came in from Houston, Texas and dominated the field with a four-day total of 298, 10 strokes better than his arch-rival Cameron Riley, who had 308. David Harris was third with 315.

#Not only did Robinson clinch the overall title, but he was awarded the Donald ‘Nine’ Rolle trophy for winning the men’s regular division as well as earning the two exempt spots for the Bahamas for the Korn Ferry golf tournaments in Exuma and Abaco in January.

#“I expected the sweep. I put in a lot of work over the last few months in anticipation of this week,” Robinson said. “I knew I had to come with a lot of games because Cameron is a strong player and we had a few other strong players in the field. I knew I couldn’t come out here with my B game. I had to come here with a lot of grit to win it.”

#Playing in what he felt was by far the worst conditions he ever experienced “with gusts up to 40 miles per hour and sustained winds of 30 and you add rain to it and competition as well, it was fun, but I enjoyed it.”

#With his caddie, veteran golfer Jimmy Delancy helping him out, Robinson said he will take the next month to work on his game so that he will be ready for the Korn Ferry tournaments next month.

#“I don’t drink nor do I smoke, so I will take the time to have a nice dinner with my family to celebrate,” Robinson said. “But there’s not much time to celebrate because I have to get ready for the two tournaments in January. “

#Riley, who came in from his base in Orlando, Florida, admitted that he was disappointed that he didn’t win or get any of the two exempt spots like he did last year when he qualified for Abaco, while Robinson got Exuma.

#“I stuck in there and gave it my best shot. I didn’t win, but it was a lot of fun,” said Riley, who felt like they played in a tropical depression. “It was rough and rainy for the whole time. Once you make it to the PGA Tour, you have to grind it out.

#“I have to congratulate Devaughn. He played extremely well. I know he will make the country proud in the two tournaments. I’m disappointed that I didn’t get one because I felt my game was right where it should be.

#“But I will be back next year.”

#Three other scores turned in saw Marcus Pratt finish in fourth with 319 with K Stuart fifth with 326 and Bahamas Golf Federation president Lynford Miller sixth with 333.

#In the senior men’s division, Grand Bahamian Greg Maycock played like he did as a regular player, carting off the Jim Duncombe’s trophy with a total of 306.

#His nearest rival was fellow Grand Bahamian Chris Lewis with 336.

#Association president Glen Pratt rounded out the top three with 340.

#As for the two-woman field, Georgette Rolle- Harris emerged as the champion of the Francis Dunn Cup with her total of 319 ahead of association secretary Racquel Riley, who posted 346.

#Taking into consideration the weather they played in, Rolle-Harris said it was a good weekend outside of the office for her because with her job as the director of golf at Baha Mar, she rarely gets to play in any tournaments.

#“I was happy that I really got to perform like I did,” she stated. “I didn’t really hit a lot of good shots. I did a lot of chipping and putting, so it was kind of a mixed bag out there. But I was happy to take a few days off and play golf before I got back to the office.

#This would have made about 10 rounds of golf that Rolle-Harris said she would have played for the year, but she was delighted to get out there and to see where her game was against her local rival in Riley.

#Riley, who came in from Exuma, said it felt like “tropical storm weather” that they played in, although she would have preferred to see more women playing on the pro circuit like herself and Rolle-Harris..

#“It was fun being out there in the weather. Ocean Club is always a great course to play on, but it was very challenging with the weather,” she pointed out. “Knowing that everybody had the same conditions to play in, it made it understandable. It was a good experience.”

#In winning the senior division, Maycock said it’s a transition and he’s enjoying it, although he felt it was a “dogfight” playing against Robinson and Riley for the overall title.

#“I have to play out of the senior division, but I’m enjoying it. I had my time and now it’s time for players like Devaughn. I’m watching him every day,” Maycock said. “I’m going to be on my part of the world enjoying this.”

#Given the conditions that the tournament was played under, tournament director Vernon Lockhart said it went very well as all of the pro golfers persevered as they dealt with the wind and the rain.

#“At the end of the day, the best man that came out on top was Devaughn Robinson,” Lockhart said.

#“But hats off to him. He and Cameron Riley are out there playing on the international circuit, so we have to support them. We have to wish them well.”

#During the presentation of awards, Lockhart was honoured by Glen Pratt for his contribution to golf.

#“It’s always good to be recognised for the achievements that you make and for the contributions that you make,” said Lockhart, who served as the captain for the two Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships titles won by the Bahamas in 1978 and 1980.

#“I’ve had my run. We’ve now passed on the baton to the younger guys, but it’s always good to be recognised by the association.”

#Pratt said he’s happy that the tournament is over for more reasons than one.

#“I’m happy that we have the coming together of our association and the BGF, the professionals and the amateurs with a good understanding that we have to work together for the younger generation of golfers coming up,” he said.

#“I’m also happy because these young guys came home and they proved that they are working on our behalf and they hope to one day represent us as Devaughn will do at both of the Korn Ferry events in January.”

#Pratt also congratulated Maycock, whom he considered to be the “best golfer in the history of the Bahamas” to win the first senior title and they have finally gotten Vernon Lockhart back in golf.

#“He (Lockhart) was punished. I’ve been punished. We’ve been out of the industry that we love because of the wheeling and dealing of how they have been giving out these golf contracts,” Pratt said.

#“We’ve been shoved out of the mainstream golf and so I feel his pain. I know mine. But I’m happy that we are back and we are going to make this work for the next generation of golfers.

#“We just want to lay a platform for the next generation and make sure that we provide them with the opportunities that we have been denied as golf pros.

#Pratt also commended Insurance Management, through Anton Sealey, who sponsored all of the trophies for the tournament and Ocean Club for the efforts they made over the four days to ensure that the course on the field was playable despite the inclement weather.

VALDEZ ‘VJ’ Edgecombe Jr led the Long Island Lutheran Middle and High School Crusaders out of Brookville, New York, to a pair of victories in the second Hoopfest in Paradise Basketball Tournament at Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium Friday night. Photo: Moise Amisial

As of Monday, December 18, 2023

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#By BRENT STUBBS

#Senior Sports Reporter

#bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

#HOMECOMINGS are usually quite memorable, but for Valdez ‘VJ’ Edgecombe Jr, his return home to the Bahamas as one of the top ranked high school boys’ basketball players in the United States was extra special.

#Before a large crowd of supporters from Bimini, led by his mother Bendra Rolle, Edgecombe Jr rocked the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium in leading the Long Island Lutheran Middle and High School Crusaders out of Brookville, New York, to a pair of victories at the second Hoopfest in Paradise Tournament.

#On Friday night, the 18-year-old Edgecombe Jr exploded for 30 points as LUHI pulled off a 81-68 win over Mater Del out of California. The 6-foot, 4-inch guard came back on Saturday night, he put on a shooting clinic, connecting on seven three-pointers for 25 points in their 83-50 rout over Riviera Prep out of Florida.

#It was indeed a memorable trip home for Edgecombe Jr, whose Crusaders team featured Kiyan Anthony, the son of former NBA star Carmelo Anthony, who, along with his ex-wife La La Anthony, the former MTV Veejay, were present in the stands watching the games this weekend.

#Edgecombe Jr admitted that he hopes to create many more as he looks ahead to one day representing the Bahamas on the men’s national basketball team like his father Valdez Sr once did.

#“I’m excited because I recognise that the Bahamas has supported me and so I just want to show my support in turn,” said Edgecombe Jr, who added that he’s been getting a lot of guidance from Grand Bahama sharp shooter Chavano “Buddy” Hield, who is playing in the NBA with the Indiana Pacers. While he’s looking to eventually make it to the NBA, Edgecombe Jr said it’s a process he has to go through and he’s taking it step by step as he prepares for the collegiate ranks, although he’s not sat down with his family to discuss the many athletic scholarship offers available to him.

#For now, he just wants to bask in the success of his trip home. “I feel good. For me to be able to play in the Bahamas for the first time in years is a great feeling,” he pointed out. “Coming home was very special for me because I knew my family and friends would be here watching. I didn’t want to let them down.”

#For his mother, Bendra, it was like an early Christmas present.

#“He’s an awesome player. Every time he plays, he shocks me,” said Rolle, who also played basketball, but only in high school. “Watching him out here was like getting that Christmas present early.”

#She added that she couldn’t ask for a better son. “He’s a very humble, focused and determined young man,” said Rolle of Edgecombe Jr, who has three sisters and four brothers. “He’s willing to do whatever he can to make his team and his family proud. We are very proud of him.”

#As the Crusaders completed the tournament with a perfect 2-0 record, Edgecombe Jr said he simply didn’t want to ruin the trip.

#“Winning was very important for me,” he said. “I had my family and friends here watching, so I had to put on a show. Having people here to support me was very special. It’s so important when you can get this type of support from home.”

#It was the first time that he had such a crowd of spectators in the stands, but Edgecombe Jr felt that his team also gave him the support he needed to be able to perform the way he did.

#“This is great. We have the size to match up against any line-up,” he pointed out.

#His coach John Buck, making his first appearance here in his 15-year career with the Crusaders, said except for the rain, they had a really good time competing against some good teams out of the United States.

#He noted that they rode the back of Edgecombe Jr, whom he summed up as a “special player.”

#“I coached a lot of real special players, but he’s been the best of them,” Buck said. “His versatility, his competitiveness and athleticism, mixed with his skills is amazing,” Buck said.

#Buck was even more thrilled as he watched Edgecombe Jr shoot consecutive three-pointers in the second half with a string of back-to-back three-pointers in the third quarter and three straight in the fourth on Saturday. Edgecombe Jr added his 15 points to the eight he got on a pair of three-pointers in the first quarter and two points in the second to end the first half with 10.

#On Friday, Edgecombe Jr took the ball inside more, duplicating six points in both the first and second quarters for 12 points.

#In the second half, he came up with 10 in the third and eight in the fourth, connecting on two consecutive three-pointers in the fourth.

#“He’s just special,” was how Buck summed up Edgecombe Jr’s performance for LUHI.

THE CI Gibson Rattlers are off on their usual trip to the United States to get some international exposure as they compete in another tournament in Las Vegas. The Rattlers, coached by Kevin ‘KJ’ Johnson, left town yesterday and will begin competition in the Tarkanian Holiday Classic today.

As of Monday, December 18, 2023

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#IT’S Christmas time and the CI Gibson Rattlers are off on their usual trip to the United States to get some international exposure as they compete in another tournament in Las Vegas.

#The Rattlers, coached by Kevin ‘KJ’ Johnson, left town on Sunday and will begin competition in the Tarkanian Holiday Classic that starts today. Team members travelling are Gerrad Rolle, Charles Maynard, D’Neo Smith, Tashon Butler, Mario Rolle, Darius Hanna, Dwayne Findley, Sergio Bain, Candae Smith, Joshua Fynes, Osee Oibrice, Zavian Lloyd and Stevachko Jacques.

#“The young men are always excited to go and compete,” Johnson said. “We always get the opportunity to be seen by the college coaches and that is one of the reasons why we go.

#“We have a very good team this year, so hopefully we can go and play the right way and give ourselves a chance to win.”

#In their first game, the Rattlers will face Chino out of California at the Faith Lutheran High School. The outcome of their game will determine whether they play out of the winners towards the championship or the loser bracket in the consolation round.

#“Last year we lost by one point, to go to the divisional championship, to a very good team in the Diplomat Prep,” Johnson recalled. “Hopefully, we come back this year and compete again and give ourselves a chance to get to the championship.”

#The Rattlers are expected to be the only team from the Bahamas participating, so Johnson said it’s important that they put on a good show to represent the country.

#“It’s a huge opportunity,” he pointed out. “The guys are looking forward to it. They understand the importance of the moment. We are playing in the Athletic Division and so we are looking forward to it.”

#The Rattlers are expected back home on December 23, just in time for Christmas, hopefully with some hardware.

#Once they eat some ham and turkey and unwrap their gifts, the Rattlers will be back at it competing in the 22nd Providence Basketball Classic, scheduled for December 27-30 at the CI Gibson Gymnasium.

#The tournament is designed for both junior and senior high school boys’ teams as well as senior high girls’ teams.

#Teams from New Providence and Grand Bahama will be participating. Johnson said they have also invited some of the Family Islands to compete.

#According to Johnson, the tournament is being held to provide an opportunity for players to be viewed by visiting college scouts, get the teams ready for the second half of their regular season basketball competition in January.

#In addition, to expose the players to a higher level of competition and to provide an activity for the fans to enjoy during the Christmas season.

THE CI Gibson Rattlers are off on their usual trip to the United States to get some international exposure as they compete in another tournament in Las Vegas. The Rattlers, coached by Kevin ‘KJ’ Johnson, left town yesterday and will begin competition in the Tarkanian Holiday Classic today.

As of Monday, December 18, 2023

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#IT’S Christmas time and the CI Gibson Rattlers are off on their usual trip to the United States to get some international exposure as they compete in another tournament in Las Vegas.

#The Rattlers, coached by Kevin ‘KJ’ Johnson, left town on Sunday and will begin competition in the Tarkanian Holiday Classic that starts today. Team members travelling are Gerrad Rolle, Charles Maynard, D’Neo Smith, Tashon Butler, Mario Rolle, Darius Hanna, Dwayne Findley, Sergio Bain, Candae Smith, Joshua Fynes, Osee Oibrice, Zavian Lloyd and Stevachko Jacques.

#“The young men are always excited to go and compete,” Johnson said. “We always get the opportunity to be seen by the college coaches and that is one of the reasons why we go.

#“We have a very good team this year, so hopefully we can go and play the right way and give ourselves a chance to win.”

#In their first game, the Rattlers will face Chino out of California at the Faith Lutheran High School. The outcome of their game will determine whether they play out of the winners towards the championship or the loser bracket in the consolation round.

#“Last year we lost by one point, to go to the divisional championship, to a very good team in the Diplomat Prep,” Johnson recalled. “Hopefully, we come back this year and compete again and give ourselves a chance to get to the championship.”

#The Rattlers are expected to be the only team from the Bahamas participating, so Johnson said it’s important that they put on a good show to represent the country.

#“It’s a huge opportunity,” he pointed out. “The guys are looking forward to it. They understand the importance of the moment. We are playing in the Athletic Division and so we are looking forward to it.”

#The Rattlers are expected back home on December 23, just in time for Christmas, hopefully with some hardware.

#Once they eat some ham and turkey and unwrap their gifts, the Rattlers will be back at it competing in the 22nd Providence Basketball Classic, scheduled for December 27-30 at the CI Gibson Gymnasium.

#The tournament is designed for both junior and senior high school boys’ teams as well as senior high girls’ teams.

#Teams from New Providence and Grand Bahama will be participating. Johnson said they have also invited some of the Family Islands to compete.

#According to Johnson, the tournament is being held to provide an opportunity for players to be viewed by visiting college scouts, get the teams ready for the second half of their regular season basketball competition in January.

#In addition, to expose the players to a higher level of competition and to provide an activity for the fans to enjoy during the Christmas season.

CI Gibson rattlers off to tournament in Las Vegas

CI Gibson rattlers off to tournament in Las Vegas

THE CI Gibson Rattlers are off on their usual trip to the United States to get some international exposure as they compete in another tournament in Las Vegas. The Rattlers, coached by Kevin ‘KJ’ Johnson, left town yesterday and will begin competition in the Tarkanian Holiday Classic today.

As of Monday, December 18, 2023

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#IT’S Christmas time and the CI Gibson Rattlers are off on their usual trip to the United States to get some international exposure as they compete in another tournament in Las Vegas.

#The Rattlers, coached by Kevin ‘KJ’ Johnson, left town on Sunday and will begin competition in the Tarkanian Holiday Classic that starts today. Team members travelling are Gerrad Rolle, Charles Maynard, D’Neo Smith, Tashon Butler, Mario Rolle, Darius Hanna, Dwayne Findley, Sergio Bain, Candae Smith, Joshua Fynes, Osee Oibrice, Zavian Lloyd and Stevachko Jacques.

#“The young men are always excited to go and compete,” Johnson said. “We always get the opportunity to be seen by the college coaches and that is one of the reasons why we go.

#“We have a very good team this year, so hopefully we can go and play the right way and give ourselves a chance to win.”

#In their first game, the Rattlers will face Chino out of California at the Faith Lutheran High School. The outcome of their game will determine whether they play out of the winners towards the championship or the loser bracket in the consolation round.

#“Last year we lost by one point, to go to the divisional championship, to a very good team in the Diplomat Prep,” Johnson recalled. “Hopefully, we come back this year and compete again and give ourselves a chance to get to the championship.”

#The Rattlers are expected to be the only team from the Bahamas participating, so Johnson said it’s important that they put on a good show to represent the country.

#“It’s a huge opportunity,” he pointed out. “The guys are looking forward to it. They understand the importance of the moment. We are playing in the Athletic Division and so we are looking forward to it.”

#The Rattlers are expected back home on December 23, just in time for Christmas, hopefully with some hardware.

#Once they eat some ham and turkey and unwrap their gifts, the Rattlers will be back at it competing in the 22nd Providence Basketball Classic, scheduled for December 27-30 at the CI Gibson Gymnasium.

#The tournament is designed for both junior and senior high school boys’ teams as well as senior high girls’ teams.

#Teams from New Providence and Grand Bahama will be participating. Johnson said they have also invited some of the Family Islands to compete.

#According to Johnson, the tournament is being held to provide an opportunity for players to be viewed by visiting college scouts, get the teams ready for the second half of their regular season basketball competition in January.

#In addition, to expose the players to a higher level of competition and to provide an activity for the fans to enjoy during the Christmas season.

THE CI Gibson Rattlers are off on their usual trip to the United States to get some international exposure as they compete in another tournament in Las Vegas. The Rattlers, coached by Kevin ‘KJ’ Johnson, left town yesterday and will begin competition in the Tarkanian Holiday Classic today.

As of Monday, December 18, 2023

• Sign in to favorite this
• Discuss1 comment, Blog about
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#IT’S Christmas time and the CI Gibson Rattlers are off on their usual trip to the United States to get some international exposure as they compete in another tournament in Las Vegas.

#The Rattlers, coached by Kevin ‘KJ’ Johnson, left town on Sunday and will begin competition in the Tarkanian Holiday Classic that starts today. Team members travelling are Gerrad Rolle, Charles Maynard, D’Neo Smith, Tashon Butler, Mario Rolle, Darius Hanna, Dwayne Findley, Sergio Bain, Candae Smith, Joshua Fynes, Osee Oibrice, Zavian Lloyd and Stevachko Jacques.

#“The young men are always excited to go and compete,” Johnson said. “We always get the opportunity to be seen by the college coaches and that is one of the reasons why we go.

#“We have a very good team this year, so hopefully we can go and play the right way and give ourselves a chance to win.”

#In their first game, the Rattlers will face Chino out of California at the Faith Lutheran High School. The outcome of their game will determine whether they play out of the winners towards the championship or the loser bracket in the consolation round.

#“Last year we lost by one point, to go to the divisional championship, to a very good team in the Diplomat Prep,” Johnson recalled. “Hopefully, we come back this year and compete again and give ourselves a chance to get to the championship.”

#The Rattlers are expected to be the only team from the Bahamas participating, so Johnson said it’s important that they put on a good show to represent the country.

#“It’s a huge opportunity,” he pointed out. “The guys are looking forward to it. They understand the importance of the moment. We are playing in the Athletic Division and so we are looking forward to it.”

#The Rattlers are expected back home on December 23, just in time for Christmas, hopefully with some hardware.

#Once they eat some ham and turkey and unwrap their gifts, the Rattlers will be back at it competing in the 22nd Providence Basketball Classic, scheduled for December 27-30 at the CI Gibson Gymnasium.

#The tournament is designed for both junior and senior high school boys’ teams as well as senior high girls’ teams.

#Teams from New Providence and Grand Bahama will be participating. Johnson said they have also invited some of the Family Islands to compete.

#According to Johnson, the tournament is being held to provide an opportunity for players to be viewed by visiting college scouts, get the teams ready for the second half of their regular season basketball competition in January.

#In addition, to expose the players to a higher level of competition and to provide an activity for the fans to enjoy during the Christmas season.

Over 300 athletes are expected to take part in the one-day meet

• Sheldon Longley
• 10 hrs ago
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What is expected to be a grand year in track and field for The Bahamas is getting an early start with the staging of the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) Odd Distance Meet this Friday at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium.

The one-day meet, which was originally set for this past Saturday, gets underway at 1 p.m. on Friday and is expected to draw hundreds of athletes from all over the country for some early season action. A number of collegiate athletes are expected to compete as wel

“A number of coaches are taking advantage of the early season to see where their athletes are at physically, and this provides the perfect avenue for them to do so,” said Cash. “The odd distance meet is generally used as a measuring stick for coaches to determine where their athletes are at going into the season. We anticipate full participation from all of the clubs and we also expect some of our college athletes to be home from school and have them compete as well.”

All of the age groups will be contested – from under-seven straight up to the open divisions. On the schedule on the track for Friday are the 60 meters (m) sprints in all divisions, the 150m sprints in all divisions, the 300m events in the under-15 boys and girls, under-17 boys and girls, under-20 boys and girls and open men and women, the 600m races in all divisions except the under-seven, under-nine and under-11 boys and girls, the 1000m in all divisions except the under-seven, under-nine, under-11 and under-13 boys and girls, the 60m hurdles in the under-17 boys and girls divisions and up, and the 300m hurdles in the under-17 boys and girls divisions and up.

On the field, the long, high and triple jumps and the discus and shot put events will be contested in the under-17 boys and girls divisions and up, and the high jump competition will extend to the under-15 boys and girls division.

“The meet features distances and different approaches that we don’t usually use but it’s an opportunity for coaches to see where their athletes are at in their training,” said Cash. “This will be like a timed trials for coaches. We anticipate that it will run smoothly. It will be good for the public to come out and see how next year would look.”

Cash said they anticipate being completed by 6 p.m. He said the date and time was chosen because it is the belief that Saturday would be used as last shopping day for Bahamians for Christmas.

“This gives persons an opportunity to watch the meet and then get that last day of shopping before Christmas on Saturday that they would have planned to get in any event,” said Cash. “Also, with Christmas parties and other things taking place on Saturday, it might be too hectic for people to fit track and field into their schedule. It starts at 1 p.m. on Friday because we realize that Friday would be a half day for a lot of people so they would be able to come straight from work and watch some track and field. The following weekend, a lot of people are travelling with some athletes leaving early to get back to school in the United States. Also, we had to factor in BACO (Bahamas Association of Certified Officials) and their availability. We placed all of that under consideration. We took a brief poll with the bigger clubs to get their view on the date and time and this Friday was the most appropriate.”

General admission for the meet is listed at $7, and school children will be admitted for $5. VIP entrance is listed at $15.

As Cash mentioned, over 300 athletes are expected to take part in the one-day meet.

• Dec 18, 2023
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The Caribbean Gas Panthers ended the first half of the 2023-2024 New Providence Volleyball Association (NPVA) season unbeaten at the D.W. Davis Gymnasium on Friday, taking down the Set-sy Poppers in four sets.

The two-time defending champions Panthers improved to an 8-0 win/loss record on the season, winning comfortably, 22-25, 25-14, 25-12 and 25-15. The Panthers dropped the first set, but quickly turned the tables on the Poppers, winning the second and third sets comfortably before finishing off their opponent in four.

The Poppers remained winless on the season, dropping to 0-7.

In the early game on Friday, the Lady Spikers defeated the Lady Techs in three sets. They won easily, 25-13, 25-20 and 25-13, in a match that lasted just an hour and seven minutes.

The Lady Spikers won 75 total points in the one-sided affair while holding the Lady Techs to 46. The Lady Spikers go into the Christmas break with a 7-2 record, losing both of their games to the defending champions Panthers. The Lady Techs dropped to 1-7.

Also last week, the University of the Bahamas (UB) Mingoes turned back the Poppers in straight sets, winning easily, 25-16, 25-22 and 25-13. They won 75 points compared to 51 for the Poppers. The Mingoes improved to 3-5 on the season.

The other team in the women’s division, the Bamboo Shack Lady Warhawks, defeated the Lady Techs in straight sets last week. They won easily, 25-16, 25-17 and 25-23, in a match that lasted an hour and 14 minutes. The Lady Warhawks won 75 points in that contest compared to 56 for the Lady Techs. They improved to a 4-2 record, third in the standings behind the Panthers and the Lady Spikers.

As mentioned, the Panthers are the two-time defending champions. They won in 2019 and again in 2022. There was no league play in 2020 and 2021 due to the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the men’s standings, the defending champions Tour Daddy Defenders go into the Christmas break with a league-leading 6-2 record. The Warhawks are closely behind at 5-2, the Technicians follow at 3-5 and the National Fence Intruders bring up the rear at 2-7.

• Simba French
• Dec 18, 2023
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Bahamian professional basketball players in Europe experienced some action on the court in various leagues over the weekend.

Kentwan Smith was busy being the top performer for his team at Luleå Energi Arena in Lulea, Sweden, helping BC Lulea (10-5) take down Jamtland (10-4), 89-80, in the Swedish Basketball League on Friday. The forward finished with 13 points and three rebounds in 31 minutes on the floor.

He shot the ball at a 50 percent clip from the field when he finished 5-for-10 in his team’s 10th win of the season. Smith also had a season-high four steals to go with two assists for his team.Up Next – Mahle on signing with RangersUp Next – Mahle on signing with Rangersclosehttps://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.609.1_en.html#goog_458198773Ad 1 of 1 (0:08)NextStay

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Smith’s team was able to jump out to a huge 24-12 advantage at the end of the first quarter. They extended that lead to 23 at the half, going up 52-29.

The visitors picked it up in the second half with a 25-18 third quarter advantage and a 26-19 advantage in the final quarter. It was not enough to beat BC Lulea.

Smith is having a strong season in Sweden, averaging 13.3 points and 5.8 rebounds in 28.7 minutes per game.

Lulea returns to action with an away and home matchup against Umea (2-13) on December 27 and December 30, respectively, to close out the calendar year.

Radshad Davis dropped in 18 points for Vendee Challans Basket (8-9) in a 94-81 loss to Rueil (10-7) in an away game at the Rueil Stadium in Rueil, France, on Friday. They play in the Nationale Masculine 1 (NM1), the third division basketball league, in France.

Davis went 8-for-14 from the floor, shooting 51.7 percent in 31 minutes on the floor. He had three assists and two rebounds to go with one steal.

Playing in France has done wonders for Davis as he is averaging 17.7 points in 28.5 minutes per game this season. The forward is also averaging 6.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game. Defensively, Davis is averaging 1.6 steals per game.

Davis and Challans will take on Rennes (10-7) at the Salle Michel Vrignaud on Friday, December 22 at 2 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.

Domnick Bridgewater was in action in the NM1 league on Friday for Avignon/Pontet Basket (8-9). They lost to Mulhouse (9-8), 86-81, on their home court in Avignon, France.

Bridgewater had his worst scoring game of the season when he finished with just six points. He also had a tough time shooting from the field, going 1-for-10. Most of his points came from the charity stripe where he finished 4-for-6. He had two rebounds and two assists.

Bridgewater has played in all 17 games for his team and is averaging 13.7 points and 4.9 assists in 24.5 minutes per game. He is averaging 1.7 steals per contest.

They will play their final game of the calendar year on Friday, December 22 on the road against Lyon (6-11) at 2 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.

Edgecombe averages 27.5 points over two games

• Simba French
• Dec 18, 2023
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Bahamian high school basketball sensation Valdez ‘VJ’ Edgecombe could not have asked for better homecoming games as he put on a show this past weekend, averaging 28.5 points at the 2nd Annual Hoopfest in Paradise at the Kendal G.L. Isaacs National Gymnasium.

Edgecombe is ranked at number five on ESPN’s Top 100 list of high school players. The last time he played at home in The Bahamas was at the Hugh Campbell Tournament at the A.F. Adderley Gymnasium in February 2020. He said he was happy to return home and play in front of family and friends with his Long Island Lutheran High School team that is based in Brookville, New York. Speaking with reporters while holding his baby brother, he had a smile on his face.

“It has been a minute since I played here,” Edgecombe said. “I think I have matured more on and off the court. On the court, I grew since you guys last saw me – just growing into my body and adjusting to getting stronger and faster to get to the next level. It was good to be back home to see everyone and play in front of family and fans and also to get some good food,” said Edgecombe.Top 10 Plays of the WeekTop 10 Plays of the WeekclosecloseNextStay

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He had his highest-scoring output on Friday, dropping a game-high 30 points as his team was able to cruise to an 81-68 victory against Mater Dei Catholic High School out of Chula Vista, California. The Bimini native put up 25 points in an 83-50 blowout win for Long Island Lutheran over Riviera Preparatory School out of Miami, Florida, on Saturday.

Playing in front of college scouts, National Basketball Association (NBA) scouts and NBA legends Carmelo Anthony and Kenny ‘The Jet’ Smith, Edgecombe did not disappoint as he was the star in the gym on Friday. The former Gateway Christian Academy (Bimini, The Bahamas) guard got off to a slow start, something that he chalked up to tough shooting, but once he got going, the opposing defense had no answer for him. His ball-handling skills were on display as was his shooting and his ability to score in the paint.

“Having a slow start is normal. I just adjusted to it,” Edgecombe said. “I just used my athleticism and my strength. I had to find a way to score and impact the game.”

Long Island Lutheran were lackluster in the beginning as Mater Dei opened the game looking like the better team. After Edgecombe’s team got settled, they began to play better. They got in the open floor by forcing turnovers and that led to easy baskets on the other end. At the end of the first quarter, Long Island Lutheran was up 16-12.https://a59d421ff944a1f8c0a61dc20d1d8ad1.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html

Both teams scored 20 points in the second quarter and Long Island Lutheran led 36-32 at the half. Edgecombe’s comfort and ability to control the game on offense showed in the third quarter. He had a 10-point effort in that stanza and this team led 54-51 after three.

It was a dominant fourth quarter for Edgecombe’s team as they extended the lead to double digits for the first time in the game. They ended up outscoring Mater Dei, 27-17, in the fourth, coasting to the 81-68 win. Edgecombe dropped in eight points in that quarter.

Carmelo Anthony’s son, Kiyan Anthony, finished with 18 points. Mater Dei’s Luke Barnett finished with 29 points that included a whopping nine three-point shots.

After the game, Edgecombe was greeted by his family, supporters and old Gateway Academy teammates.

“It means a lot to me to have a lot of family and friends here and have the fans in my corner. Being the first from my island to go this far, it means a lot. The support system is great, they are every step behind me,” Edgecombe said.

Sitting at courtside on Friday night was Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg. The former senior men’s national basketball team head coach raved about Edgecombe’s play.

“He was quite frankly the best player on the basketball court tonight. He is very poised and has a very high IQ for the game of basketball. One could see he was the best basketball player on the floor. He is headed somewhere and he just have to remain focused and keep doing what he is doing. I have coached Bahamians and he has one of the highest IQs that I have ever seen in the game of basketball,” Bowleg said.https://a59d421ff944a1f8c0a61dc20d1d8ad1.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html

Also on Friday night, the New Providence Public Schools Select Team and the New Providence Private Schools Select Team, bout out of The Bahamas, played each other. In the end, it was the public schools team winning, 61-50.

Steveacko Jacques led the public schools team with a team-high 13 points in the win. Nekero Brown finished with a team-high 11 points in the loss.

There were three other boys teams in action over the weekend namely Faith Family Academy (Dallas, Texas), Link Academy (Branson, Missouri), and Dynamic Preparatory School (Irving, Texas).

There were four girls teams in action namely Long Island Lutheran High School team (Brookville, New York), Lake Highland Preparatory School team (Orlando, Florida), Etiwanda High School team (Rancho Cucamonga, California) and DeSoto High School team (DeSoto, Texas).