Mikahael Bartley Begins Passport Process, Hopes to Represent Jamaica at Centrobasket U17 Championships
Fifteen-year-old Mikahael Bartley has taken the first steps toward fulfilling a long-held dream—representing Jamaica on the international basketball stage. The 6’4” Jamaican-Canadian point guard is currently in the process of securing his Jamaican passport, with the goal of earning a spot on the national team for the upcoming FIBA Centrobasket U17 Championships in July.
Born in Toronto to Jamaican parents with roots in Westmoreland, Bartley has long felt a deep connection to the island. “It feels great to finally be recognized as a Jamaican citizen,” he told Sportsmax.TV. “I’ve been coming here every year, twice a year, since I was six months old. This is home for me.”
A dynamic and intelligent floor general, Bartley has already carved out a reputation as one of Canada’s top young prospects. As the lead point guard for Crestwood Preparatory College, he guided his team through a stellar 2024–25 season, capturing a CISSA Championship, a National Junior Circuit title, and finishing third in the Ontario Scholastic Basketball Association (OSBA). His performances earned him the Most Improved Player award and the title of team captain, a role he embraced with leadership beyond his years.
Bartley’s impact is just as strong in the AAU ranks. Playing with Northern Kings on the New Balance circuit, he helped lead his team to an impressive 30–5 record and a CYBL championship, proving himself against elite competition in both Canada and the United States.
“We’ve played against some of the biggest programs in the U.S.—IMG Academy, Montverde,” he said. “Those games helped shape my development and prepare me for the next level.”
While this is his first foray into the international process, Bartley is clear about his intentions.
“I want to represent Jamaica instead of Canada,” he explained. “My family is Jamaican, and everything about how I was raised—how we talk, the food, the culture—connects me to here. I just want to wear the black, green, and gold.”
Describing himself as a combo guard with strong playmaking and scoring ability, Bartley believes he can bring value to a Jamaican U17 team eager to improve on consecutive sixth-place finishes at the Centrobasket Championships.
“Even though I might be one of the youngest guys, I feel I can contribute right away,” he said. “I’m coachable, I play hard, and I’m ready to learn from the older players—but I’m also here to lead.”
A dual-sport athlete who also excels in soccer, Bartley balances athletic excellence with academic distinction, maintaining honour roll status at Crestwood. It’s that combination of drive, discipline, and heritage that he hopes will see him earn his debut for Jamaica this summer.
“This is something I’ve always wanted,” he said. “And now I’m closer than ever.”
