Colts win first national basketball title

Apr 25, 2016 Sports 0

By Edison Jefford
Colts United won its first national basketball title Saturday night at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall when they defeated Linden’s Retrieve Raiders in the third Road to Mecca National Club Championships.

GABF President, Nigel Hinds (left) and Mackeson Brand Manger, Jamaal Douglas (second, right) join the victorious Colts team for a photo opportunity last Saturday night.

Shelroy Thomas poured in 23 points to help Colts secure the blowout 75-55 win in their second attempt at the title. Their first try on March 19 came to an abrupt halt when Raiders walked off the court in the fourth quarter.
With new systems in place, including a full FIBA accredited officiating crew, Colts up-tempo offence obliterated Raiders in the second half of the well attended game.
Apart from Thomas, centre Shane Webster and guard Kurt English scored 11 points each and junior sensation, Stanton Rose 10 points and 11 rebounds to complete a good all-round effort.
For Raiders, centre Jason Alonzo had 11 points while Keon Cameron scored 10 points.
English finished a fast break lay-up to put Colts up 23-21, but Keon Cameron nailed a three-pointer to return the lead to Raiders.  Neil Marks then hit a jumper with clock winding down to give Raiders a 32-29 lead at halftime.
Down 31-32, Rose dropped a huge three-pointer to put Colts up 34-32 with 7:39 to play in the third period. Then Thomas finished a jumper to further extend Colts lead. Thomas scored six straight points to further push Colts ahead.
Thomas scored six straight points to close out the third period ahead 50-37. A full court press and offensive blitz led Colts to 60-40 lead with 7:00 to play in the fourth quarter. Colts continued on their run to close out the game.