The Anguilla Junior Basketball team travelled to Monserrat to participate in the 2015 19 & under LIBA basketball tournament from the 13th – 18th December2015. There were a total of 8 teams participating. Those teams were: Antigua, Barbuda, St Kitts, Nevis, Monserrat, BVI, St Maarten and Anguilla. There were a total of 10 players selected and two officials from Anguilla. Those players were, Yariel Fleming, Aaron Gumbs, Deraul Frazer, Andre Duncan, Junior Rogers, Renee Thomas, Wackeem Richardson, Jeronnie Fleming, Chavoi Gumbs. Two officials were Cuthbert Jackson (coach) and Delano Mussington (manager).
In game one, Anguilla played against Antigua and lost by a score of 83 – 38. There were signs of nervousness in that game due to the fact that it was the first time they were exposed to that level of basket
ball. Junior Rogers top scored with 11 points, 3 assists and 3 steals. Aaron Gumbs added 5 points and 17 rebounds.
In game two, Anguilla showed more poise and defeated Barbuda by a score 67-46. Yariel Fleming top scored with 16 points, 4 assist and 3 steals. Aaron Gumbs scored 12 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 assists.
In Game three, Anguilla again was impressive defeating Nevis 68-53. Aaron Gumbs top scored with 21 points, 23 rebounds, 7 steals and 4 blocks. Junior Rogers was also impressive scoring 18 points, 4 rebounds, 8 assists and 6 steals.
In game four, Anguilla lost to Monserrat by a score of 76- 63. Junior Rogers top scored with 20 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assist and 5 steals. Aaron Gumbs also played well with 10 points, 12 rebounds, 2 assists and 8 steals.
In the final game, Anguilla lost a close to one to St Kitts by a score of 65- 62. Junior Rogers again was impressive. He scored 30 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists and 8 steals. Aaron Gumbs stayed consistent again scoring 11 points and pulled 17 rebounds.
The trip was made possible by a significant contribution from the Anguilla Social Security Board who continues to support the efforts of the National Basketball Program. Contributions from the Government of Anguilla, Anguilla Block & Sand as well as the fund-raising efforts of the Anguilla Amateur Basketball Association also helped make this trip possible. Charter service directly into Montserrat provided by Trans Anguilla was also provided at a special rate that was certainly appreciated and their continued support is always appreciated.
– Press Release
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)
