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By Samuel Peters
The Mahijah Davis Basketball Academy (MDBA) Summer Invitational concluded in spectacular fashion on Sunday evening with the Antigua Ballers capturing the championship title following a dominant 86-58 victory over Combine Express in the finals.
Led by tournament MVP Elijah Charles and Captain Tajahron Davis, the Ballers demonstrated the depth and skill that carried them through the tournament unscathed.
Davis orchestrated the victory with a stellar all-around performance, recording 28 points, 7 rebounds, four assists, and five steals. Erije Joseph provided crucial support with 22 points and five rebounds, along with five steals that helped create transition opportunities for the Ballers. Elliott Samuel Jr. contributed 11 points to the winning effort, while his tournament-leading steal numbers earned him individual recognition.
For Combine Express, despite the disappointing final result, several players delivered commendable performances. Derick Perez led their scoring with 24 points, showcasing the same offensive prowess that would later earn him the Future Star Award. Yohan Nicholas dominated the paint with 11 points, nine rebounds, and an impressive six blocks, demonstrating the defensive presence that earned him the tournament’s Most Block Shots award.
The bronze medal game provided thrilling entertainment as the Island Hoopers edged out the Bajan Ballers in a closely contested 73-69 victory. The match featured outstanding individual performances from both sides, with several players delivering tournament-defining displays.
Elijah Charles of the Island Hoopers produced one of the tournament’s most spectacular individual performances, recording 44 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and seven steals. This exceptional display not only secured third place for his team but also earned him the tournament’s Most Points award and ultimately the Most Valuable Player recognition.
Perez provided valuable support with 10 points and five steals, while Seamus Oshea delivered a strong double-double performance with 20 points, 11 rebounds, and four assists.
The Bajan Ballers, despite falling short of the podium, showcased remarkable individual efforts. Ari Mottley-Squires recorded 18 points and 10 rebounds while earning recognition as the tournament’s Most Disciplined Player, highlighting his consistent approach and sportsmanship throughout the competition. Darren Massiah dominated the boards with 17 points, 14 rebounds, and 5 steals, providing a glimpse of his potential as a force in the paint.
The individual awards ceremony recognized the exceptional talent displayed throughout the tournament. Elijah Charles’s tournament-leading scoring average earned him both the Most Points award and the coveted Most Valuable Player trophy, cementing his status as the tournament’s premier performer.
Jaheem Dyett of the Island Hoopers claimed the Most Rebounds award, showcasing his dominance on the glass throughout the competition. Elliott Samuel Jr.’s defensive intensity was rewarded with the Most Steals recognition, while Yohan Nicholas‘ rim protection earned him the Most Block Shots award.
Davis’ playmaking ability was acknowledged with the Most Assists award, complementing his Most Outstanding Player recognition. The Future Star Award went to Derick Perez, highlighting his potential for continued development, while Ethan Browne of the Island Hoopers was honoured as the Best Rookie.
The Mahijah Davis Basketball Academy would like to thank its sponsors for their support in this worthy venture. Sponsor include Citizenship by Investment Unit, Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board, Total Imports, Blue Waters, Cool and Smooth, Unlimited Ice, Idea Media Printing among others.
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