Matthew Pierre players shine at Mayaro basketball opening

Matthew Pierre Basketball Academy (MPBA) made an impressive impact with a runaway victory in the opening game of an exhibition double-header, which marked the official launch of the 2017 BPTT Mayaro Basketball League. The opening was held recently before an appreciative crowd at the Mafeking Basketball Court.

Overcoming a sluggish start, the MPBA players held a 31-20 advantage at half time, but went on a scoring spree to end the match 57-31 for an easy victory over Mafeking Youths in the Under-21 encounter. Spurred by founder and coach, Matthew Pierre, a former stand-out national player, the MPBA were led at the hoop by Ronald James, with 20 points, and Tre Modeste, 16. Theron Evelyn, with 10 points, led for Mafeking Youths. With their slick movement and accurate shooting, the MPBA have positioned themselves as early favourites for the Under-21 championship crown.

In the second game in the Community Division, Rio Claro Ballers always looked likely winners as they battled to a 78-70 victory over Sangre Grande-based D Hill. Nathan Lewis scored 22 points, while Christopher Lares contributed 16, for Rio Claro. Mikhail Williams, 20, and Glendon Phillip, 15, were the best shooters for D Hill.

Sponsored by energy company BP Trinidad and Tobago, the Mayaro Basketball League is organised by the South Corner Basketball Foundation under the auspices of the All Mayaro Sports Foundation.

In his capacity as community liaison officer, BPTT, Matthew Pierre said the company was extremely happy to continue its support of the league in its drive to provide wholesome sporting activity for the wider Mayaro community and to develop the talents of the players to enable them to take their game to a higher level. He urged the teams to invest in the youths by fielding junior teams in an effort to provide continuity and to identify emerging talent.

As founder, manager and coach of the basketball academy, which bears his name, Pierre said his players were eager to play the game at the highest level. “There are many opportunities in the sport for players with talent, dedication and discipline, to play at the professional level. We have real talent in Mayaro and I intend to give these young men the opening they need to succeed,” said Pierre, following his team’s victory.

Quammie Alexis, president of South Corner Basketball Foundation, praised BPTT for its continuing support of basketball in the south-west region, noting that the 2017 season should be very competitive, since the participating teams had intensive preparation before the opening of the league. A total of 14 teams have registered for the competition, with 10 lining up in the Community Division and four in the Under-21 Division.