Caymanian basketballer Liam Ramoon has committed to join Spire Academy in Geneva, Ohio, for his junior year in high school, which begins later this month.
Ramoon, who previously played varsity basketball at DME Academy in Florida for one season, sees this as a “big milestone” for both his personal and athletic growth, allowing him to compete at a higher level while gaining the exposure he needs to achieve his goals.
“This opportunity means everything to me,” he said. “Getting another year to play basketball at a higher level, in a new environment, is huge.”
“Competing with international talent is an amazing challenge … not just for my basketball career, but for my personal growth as well,” he added.
Ramoon said he was recruited to play with Spire, a moment that offered him a source of validation.
“Having the coach reach out was a huge moment for me,” he said.
“It showed that my talent in Florida was being recognised all the way in Ohio. It was a real ‘thank God’ moment because I had been praying for a new opportunity.”
The 16-year-old, who plays point and shooting guard – referred to as combo guard – said he is excited to develop in all areas of the game once at Spire.
One area of focus for him physically is building his strength, so he is to better able handle contact from larger players and improve his aggression.
“I’m also looking forward to growing mentally,” he added. “I know the coaches will push me, and that’s inevitable in this game, but I also know it’s for my betterment. I’m ready to adapt and grow on a larger scale.”
While at the academy, one of his major goals going into his junior year will be to secure an NCAA Division I offer.
“I’ve already been in conversation with several college coaches, but this is my recruitment year,” he said.
“I’m ready to start strong and finish strong, with the ultimate goal of landing multiple offers.”
On the court, Ramoon anticipates that his biggest challenge will be his size.
As a smaller player, measuring 5’10”, he plans to rely on his speed, skills, and high basketball IQ to compete against bigger, stronger opponents.
Off the court, he said adjusting to the cold weather in Ohio will also be a challenge for him.
“I’m used to the heat in Cayman and Florida, so battling snow will be a whole new experience,” he admitted.
Ramoon said basketball became his sport of choice after growing up watching his father, Dane Ramoon, and other local players compete on the courts at Savannah United Church.
“Watching them compete sparked something in me. I always wanted to compete at that level as a young kid,” he recalled.
Today, his motivation is fuelled by the support of his family, his faith and the memory of his late grandfather, who always encouraged him with the words, “Liam, never give up.”
A former student of Cayman Prep and High School and DME Academy, Ramoon not only wants to build a successful career for himself by playing professionally in the future, but he also aims to give back.
He hopes to one day create a programme and scholarship fund to help other young athletes pursue their dreams and to make a positive name for Cayman basketball on a global stage no matter where he is.
