2 days ago
1
President of the Jamaica Basketball Association (JABA) Paulton Gordon said they are still pushing ahead with plans to host their next two home fixtures in the FIBA America World Cup qualifiers, in February and March, despite no concrete commitment from potential partners as yet.
Jamaica senior men’s basketball team stunned the world late last month with back-to-back victories over the more fancied Puerto Rico in that country, igniting hopes of a first appearance at the global championship.
The team was forced to play both games in Puerto Rico because they had to give up their home court, as the National Indoor Sports Centre and the Montego Bay Convention Centre did not meet FIBA standards.
Gordon was quick to point out that they are communicating with their potential partners, but that things have basically been put on hold due to the festive season. Nevertheless, he said they are still moving ahead with plans to host the two matches.
“We are still pushing because we want to host. We are still trying to speak with potential partners including private sector and Government,” he said.
“But in the Christmas holidays it is hard to tie down things but we are still looking forward to hosting Bahamas on February 16 and Canada on March 1 and we will pull out all the stops to make it happen,” Gordon said.
It will cost the association an estimated $44 million to host the two matches. This will include installing a standardised scoreboard and hoops for the encounters.
“They (potential partners) gave us a few more days to make some decisions. But we have basically made them know that we are going ahead with other aspects of our plans to host because we need to make sure everything is in place,” he disclosed.
He noted that he expects the Government to assist them. But he has yet to meet with the sports minister, Olivia Grange.
“I haven’t had a chance to meet with Minister Grange so that is what we are waiting on. She was away. We have, however, spoken with our overseas people who are helping us with some things,” the basketball boss said.
Coach Rick Turner believes that the benefits from hosting matches in Jamaica are more than just giving the team an advantage.
“It’s absolutely crucial (host home games). We want this for Jamaica. Not only does it help us on the court, from an advantage standpoint, I think it is something that our fans deserve to see. And beyond that I think it is something that is good for the local economy.
“If you are not a basketball fan or fan of any sports particularly in general, you won’t appreciate having big events, and what the spotlight on your country can do from an economic standpoint,” Turner said.
Nevertheless, he believes the team’s performance in the recent games has built confidence and he is positive they will get the chance to play at home in front of the fans.
“I am optimistic about it. But we need help. We are not here with our hands out asking for money, we just need support and support can come in many different ways. But it’s got to start with the corporate community within the country,” he stated.
English (US) ·