The Cayman Islands men’s national 3×3 team achieved a major milestone in their basketball history, securing the country’s first-ever podium finishes at the FIBA 3×3 Caribbean Development Camp and Tournament.
The Cayman men’s and women’s 3×3 squads competed in two stops of the tournament from 10-13 Dec. in Nassau, Bahamas.
The men’s team, comprised of Daric Ebanks, Alwin Buttrum Jr., Nathaniel Anderson and Bryan Ebanks, opened their historic run with a 16–14 victory over St. Lucia, followed by a narrow 14–11 loss to Haiti.
They rebounded in the bronze medal game, defeating Jamaica 19–14 to secure their first piece of hardware.
The momentum carried into stop two, where the men’s team continued their run of historic firsts.
They secured crucial wins against Trinidad and Tobago 13–8 and host nation Bahamas 12–11 before falling to Jamaica 15–10, ultimately securing their second consecutive bronze medal.
Also competing in the tournament was the Cayman women’s national 3×3 team comprising of Vivian Worrell, Arleny Ebanks, Atira White and Jaymie Rankin.
Despite their efforts, the women lost to St. Lucia 12–3 and Jamaica 21–3 in stop one and fell to Haiti 13–0 and the eventual champions Jamaica 21–1 in stop two.
Collin Anglin, president of the Cayman Islands Basketball Association said, “The women’s squad is a young and developing group, with three players competing in their first international tournament.
“Despite the results, the team showed growth with each game, gaining exposure that will be critical as the program continues to develop and prepare for future international competitions.”
Beyond the court
The significance of the event extended beyond the court, with representatives from the Cayman Islands also participating in coaching and referee training workshops.
“Two of our referees, Kadane Hall and Gregory Hamilton, were chosen to officiate the finals which is a big deal because that shows the level of competence,” said Anglin.
Several Cayman coaches also attended the coaching workshops, including Duran ‘Trinni’ Whittaker, Wendy Manzanares, Victor ‘Voot’ O’Garro and Cory McGee.
Reflecting on the tournament, Anglin said, “The performances in Nassau represent a significant step forward for Cayman Islands Basketball and its growing 3×3 program.
“With two bronze medals, multiple historic victories, and strong competitive showings across both men’s and women’s divisions, Cayman leaves the inaugural Caribbean Cup with optimism and clear direction.”
He says the association has their sight set firmly on next summer’s major international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games, Central American and Caribbean Games, and the FIBA 3×3 Nations League.
