Latest News
Overseas talents arrive for pro basketball tournament
January 06, 2023
Founder of the Elite 1 Caribbean Basketball League (E1CBL) Ludlow Barker believes the latest initiative dubbed Pro Basketball De Yah, set to tip off this Saturday at the National Arena starting at 6 p.m. is gaining momentum, with the influx of overseas talents that will showcase their talents on Jamaican soil.
The competition, which is down to be contested by four teams, Elite 1 Waves, Elite 1 Horizon, Elite 1 Rivers and Elite 1 Storm, will run until January 29. It features professionals from the USA, Jamaica, Barbados and Canada.
Barker revealed that players who have arrived are ready and raring to hit the ground running.
"It's the exposure for our local players. Some of the players that are coming from overseas have minds to be a part of clinics, talking to kids, doing community work. It's a joy listening to them talking about playing basketball for Jamaicans, but not just to perform but to leave an impact, integrate and enjoy the country," said Barker.
The tournament will be contested over 16 games, and with the influx of overseas talents from four countries, chief organiser Barker is eyeing not only a successful staging of the event but is in anticipation of basketball being played at a very high standard.
"Yes, we definitely expect a high level of talent and competition and we expect every game to be a good one and entertaining for the fans and the players are ready to give of their best. We are looking forward to a month of great competition for the fans to watch and for the local youngsters and the females to not only entertain but develop and continue growing in the sport," he added.
Barker is cautiously optimistic that local players who will participate in the tournament will use the high level of competition to elevate their standard of play.
"This is such an exciting time for myself and Mr Wayne Dawkins (owner, PHASE 1). I think right now the more basketball you play will of course improve the standard and you'll also find that when you put players together, you'll find some gems that you hope will move on to bigger and better things. All will not play the sport professionally but they'll find their own niche if they continue in the sport of basketball," Barker opines.
A plethora of basketball developmental programmes have been announced for the start of this year and coach Barker hinted that this could breathe rewards not only in the short term but in the near future.
"Definitely for the long term because what will happen is that other players will want to come and join these youngsters and these players who are coming through, who are displaying their skills right now, will help to grow the sport," Barker hinted.
