Sports
Jonathan Ramnanansingh
–
Coach KG Elite dethroned defending champions Spartans TT 11-4 to capture the R³ 3×3 Basketball Invitational Under-21 men’s title at the Youth Transformation and Rehabilitation Centre (YTRC) gymnasium, on September 28.
With the contest still close at 6-4 late in regulation, Judah Guy seized control by burying back-to-back two-pointers, on his way to scoring the final five points to seal victory.
His clutch finish secured a perfect 5-0 run for Coach KG Elite including team members Ajani Rechais, Jameer Young, Cyprian Wingham and Guy.
Guy earned finals MVP honours for his composure at the death.
History was also made in the inaugural women’s division, where Royalty Apex dominated New Chapter Academy 14-2. Ize-Tao Best poured in ten points and was named finals MVP, while Joelle and Nahanda Best provided support as Royalty Apex completed an unbeaten 4-0 campaign.
Additionally, the R³ tournament brought civilian teams inside YTRC to compete alongside the centre’s own residents as a way of reinforcing positive behaviour and strengthening community ties.
For the second edition, three YTRC men’s squads participated – up from two in 2024 – and for the first time two women’s resident teams took the floor.
Visiting teams praised the event’s organisation and the rare chance to connect with residents as fellow athletes.
For the Prisons Service, the R³ 3×3 Invitational is more than a basketball tournament and is described as a “vivid example of how sport can bridge divides, foster discipline, and inspire transformation.”
Tournament grouping:
Men’s U-21 Groups
Group A – YTRC 2, YTRC 3, Spartans TT, Royalty
Group B – YTRC 1, Coach KG Elite, Trou Ballers, East Stars
Women’s U-21 Groups
Group A – YTRCF 1, Royalty Apex, NCA
Group B – YTRCF 2, Royalty Summit, 500 Hawks
Final Standings
U-21 Men
Coach KG Elite
Spartans TT
Royalty
Finals MVP – Judah Guy
U-21 Women
Royalty Apex
NCA
500 Hawks
Finals MVP – Ize-Tao Best
