Anton Sealey Jr and Lions win soccer title
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor
It’s very rare that you hear of a Bahamian coach winning a title in any sports outside of the Bahamas. Anton Sealey Jr is one of those exceptions to the rule.
The 33-year-old son of Hope and Anton Sealey Sr, former president of the Bahamas Football Association, has made that quantum leap from playing at Queen’s College and the University of South Florida to now coaching at the club and high school level in Florida.
In just his first year coaching the Lake Nona High School boys’ varsity soccer team in Orlando, Florida, as the youngest
coach in the system by 14 years, Sealey Jr guided the Lions to their first Florida State Cup championship title in 46 years for the city and the first for Lake Nona High School.
The 0-0 (1-0 on penalty kicks) victory in Arendale, Florida over Timber Creek High School on Friday, February 21, will enable him to become the first black coach in the state of Florida to win the title.
He’s also dubbed to become the Coach of the Year in the state of Florida.
“I’m happy for the boys. I’m for the boys because we had a rough run to the championship,” said Sealey Jr of their 27 wins, one-loss and four ties record for the Lions, which was marred by the death of one of their
players, Anthony Sanchez, two weeks earlier in a car accident.
“We needed some positivity and some positive public relations for the school. This has been it. But for me, being away from my family for so long, when you win, it shows that the journey is worth it all.
“As a coach, you have to make some tough decisions about playing time and to keep everyone motivated. But when you win, all those things go away. The kids enjoy it and they don’t worry too much about playing time. They say winning cures it all. This is definitely it for us at Nona Lake.”
Today, Sealey said Fox News is expected to be on their campus to have
a special interview with the team before they meet with the County Board of Directors for the district as well as the governor of Florida.
Following his departure in grade 10 in 2006 after the Comets won four consecutive Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools senior boys’ soccer titles, he completed his high school at boarding school at St Stephen’s Episcopal School Soccer Academy in Austin, Texas and then enrolled at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he won a national championship in 2010.
Upon graduation from college where he has earned his undergraduate degree in 2015 before
he added two masters by 2019 in business administration and sports business management as a sporting directorship master’s degree, Sealey Jr spent the past 10 years operating the Optimal Training Foundation Academy which is located both in Olando and Jacksonville, Florida. His girls’ under-13 team is ranked number one in the nation and the team is No.1 in Florida in youth 12.
As a result of his success in his academy, Nona Lake School reached out to him for the coaching job and he gladly accepted.
In my academy, I’ve developed some kids who go to schools in Minnesota. I’ve developed some
BOISE, Idaho (AP) —
Tyson Degenhart scored 16 of 21 points in the second half and Boise State beat Utah State 82-65 on Wednesday. Degenhart shot 7 for 13 (2 for 3 from 3-point range) and 5 of 6 from the freethrow line for the Broncos (20-8, 12-5 Mountain West Conference). Andrew Meadow scored 17 points while going 5 of 9 from the floor, including 3 for 5 from 3-point range, and 4 for 5 from the line and added five rebounds. Alvaro Cardenas shot 3 of 9 from the field, including 3 for 8 from 3-point range, and went 7 for 8 from the line to finish with 16 points. The Aggies (24-5, 14-4) were led by Mason Falslev, who recorded 19 points. Utah State also got 11 points from Deyton Albury. Ian Martinez also had 10 points. Boise State took the lead with 3:29 left in the first half and did not give it up. Both teams next play Saturday. Boise State visits Fresno State and Utah State goes on the road to play Colorado State.
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
WITH this year’s National High School Golf Championships just a few weeks away at the Bahamas Golf Federation’s Driving Range, some of the top golfers got a chance to pay a courtesy call on Capital Union Bank. The title sponsor of the BGF’s Junior Division and the Fourteen Clubs Golf Academy-organised event allowed the golfers to view the facilities near Lyford
Carl Hield, Page 3
‘JUNKANOO BEACH BOYZ’ WILL NEED SUPPORT FROM HOME CROWD
By
THE “Junkanoo Beach Boyz” will need support from the home crowd as they plan to go all the way at the 2025 Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) Beach Soccer Championship slated for March 11-16 at home.
The host team was one victory short of advancing to the 2023 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup at the 2023 CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championship hosted at home, but this time around they intend to advance and will need the help of the home crowd to do it.
Michael Butler, who plays goalkeeper for Team Bahamas, talked about the importance of having that support at home.
“It goes a long way, especially how we are running in the sand so it takes a toll on your legs. It’s part of the game where it’s very difficult and that extra cheer, extra shake of the cowbell, extra noise makes a huge difference so keep coming out and keep supporting. Make sure every seat is filled, make sure it is as loud as possible, bring your colours and make sure that we represent because we are hosting and we are looking to qualify for the World Cup,” he said.
The “Junkanoo Beach Boyz” have their sights set on qualifying for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Seychelles 2025 after finishing fourth at the last biennial tournament hosted at home.
Cay where they were also feted
their passion for golf, their dedication to honing their skills, and their excitement for this year’s competition,” Charles said. “Witnessing
UNCLE LOU FUN RUN/WALK THE St Augustine’s College and the Alumni Association is inviting the general public to come out and participate in the Uncle Lou Fun Run/Walk. Under the theme: “Paint the streets red,” the event will take place on Saturday, March 15, starting 6am at SAC’s campus off Bernard Road. The route will
February
leave SAC’s campus and head on Bernard Road, turn onto Soldier Road to Prince Charles Drive, turn east onto Prince Charles Drive and head back to SAC. The registration fee is $20 for adults and $10 for persons under the age of 20. The first 200 participants will receive road race t-shirts. Persons can register now by logging
SEE PAGE E2
JACOBI BAIN in action.
The Weight of the Work: Strategic load accumulation for athletic success
By Dr Kent L Bazard
FOR many young ath-
letes in The Bahamas, the balancing act between school, training and competition is relentless.
Between early morning workouts, full days in the classroom, afternoon practices, and late-night study sessions, the demand on their bodies and minds is immense.
While the concept of load management - reducing training to avoid overusehas gained attention in elite sports, a more proactive approach called strategic load accumulation is proving to be a game-changer.
Understanding Load and Its Effects
Training load refers to the cumulative stress placed on an athlete through physical training, competition, and even external stressors like academics and social pressures.
When poorly managed, excessive load can lead to overtraining syndrome, increasing the risk
of burnout, injury, and declining performance. Symptoms include persistent fatigue, mood swings, decreased motivation, and recurring injuries. However, avoiding load entirely is not the answer.
Research from experts like Jordan Troester emphasises that when load is increased strategically over time, athletes develop higher thresholds for performance, reducing the likelihood of injury while maximising their competitive potential.
Strategic Load Accumulation: A Smarter Approach
Instead of sudden spikes in training volume or abrupt reductions, strategic load accumulation involves progressive increases in workload, allowing the body to adapt systematically.
This method encourages long-term durability, preventing the all-too- common cycle of overload, injury, and recovery setbacks.
Key components of this approach include: Gradual
Progression: Training loads should increase steadily over weeks and months, avoiding drastic jumps that shock the system.
Planned Recovery: Rest is not a passive process - it is scheduled strategically to ensure full adaptation before adding more stress.
Monitoring Fatigue: Athletes and coaches must track physical and mental fatigue through performance markers, mood assessments, and even sleep patterns.
Personalisation: Every athlete responds differently to stress, meaning their training programme should reflect individual capacity and recovery needs.
Pre-Season: The Perfect Time to Build Load
One of the best times to implement strategic load accumulation is during preseason training. This phase lays the foundation for performance and should not be about simply pushing limits but developing long-term resilience.
To maximise effectiveness, pre-season should include:
Baseline Assessments: Testing strength, endurance, mobility, and biomechanics to establish a personalised starting point.
Periodisation: Structuring training into phases that gradually increase intensity, ensuring optimal adaptation without overtraining.
Neuromuscular Development: Incorporating exercises that improve movement efficiency, reducing injury risks.
Education and Communication: Athletes must understand their training loads and recovery cycles, empowering them to take an active role in their development.
Managing the Load of Student-Athletes
For young athletes juggling school, sports and personal life, managing training load goes beyond the gym or field. Sleep, nutrition, mental stress, and academic responsibilities all contribute to overall fatigue.
A high school sprinter pushing through intense training while sacrificing sleep for exams may find themselves at risk of both physical and mental exhaustion.
To balance this, studentathletes should:
Prioritise Recovery: Consistent sleep and proper nutrition enhance adaptation to training loads.
Time Management: Planning workouts, study sessions and downtime prevents mental burnout.
Seek Support: Coaches, sports therapists and academic advisors play a key role in helping athletes structure their commitments effectively.
The Long Game in Athletic Success Strategic load accumulation is not about training harder – it’s about training smarter. Whether an athlete is competing at the high school level or preparing for collegiate recruitment, properly managing workload is essential for sustained success and longevity in sports. By adopting structured progression, prioritising recovery, and building awareness around training stress, Bahamian athletes can thrive both in competition and in life – not just for one season, but for the entirety of their careers.
medicine physician at Empire Sports Medicine, specializes in ensuring athletes reach their peak performance safely. With extensive experience and a passion for sports health, Dr. Bazard provides insights and guidance for athletes of all ages - men and women.
The host team came up short against Mexico 3-2 in the semifinals to wrap up in the fourth position overall.
The fourth-place finish was the team’s best showing in eight tournament appearances. Eight nations will be represented at the upcoming CONCACAF Beach
Soccer Championship next month.
Participating teams will hail from The Bahamas, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Trinidad
& Tobago and the United States of America.
The top two nations will book their spots for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Seychelles 2025.
National team member Kyle Williams encouraged the fans to come out in large numbers.
“It is like having a sixth man. When the crowd is big, you get goosebumps and start burning on the
onto www.saintaugustinescollege.com. Following the race, a health screening will take place. There will also be a souse out with chicken priced at $10, pig feet at $12 and sheep tongue at $15. Drinks will also be on sale. For more information, persons can call 242-324-1511 or email Thesacalumni@ gmail.com
RUGBY GAMES AT WINTON AFTER making some minor repairs to the Winton rugby pitch, the Bahamas Rugby Union is scheduled to play matches on Saturday, March 8 and Saturday, March 22.
inside. We still play for ourselves at the end of the day because we do this for us but to have people cheering us on and knowing that they stand with us and believe in what we are going for is amazing.
“It would be really appreciated if all of you guys came out and supported us. We really need it,” he said.
Competition is slated to kick off with the group
All ages and all abilities are welcome, including men and women, ‘Golden Oldies’ teams and beginners and seasoned players. The BRU is also inviting persons to come and try rugby this year. The only equipment needed are tennis/cleats and PE kit.For further information, persons are urged to call (242) 812-0417.
Ozzie ‘The Insider’ Simmons Top 10 FOLLOWING the competition of the 41st Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium on Monday night, Ozzie “The Insider” Simmons has released the rankings of the top 10 high school senior boys’ teams in the Bahamas. Here’s the list in order: 1 - Tabernacle Baptist Academy Falcons
stage from March 11-13. This stage will be followed by the knockout stage on March 15.
The semifinals, thirdplace match and final will be played on March 16. The Bahamas will open the competition against Panama 8pm on Tuesday, March 11 at the Malcolm Park Beach Soccer Facility. Admission is free for the public.
BAZARD DR KENT
‘Flashy’ Hield and ‘Raw’ Williams going after two new titles
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
AFTER successfully defending his World Boxing Assocation’s Fedecaribe Super welterweight title on Wednesday night in Santa Marta, Colombia, Carl “Flashy” Hield is now looking to joining Rashield “Raw” Williams in bringing two new titles to the Bahamas next month.
The 38-year-old Hield, who has a wealth of experience as an amateur, stopped Jhon Cadavid in the third round at the Round a Round Fitness Club with a flurry of body punches to improve his unblemished professional record to 10-0.
“I want to give God thanks for giving me the strength to go in there and perform,” said Hield, who once again dedicated the fight to his number one fan - his deceased mother Norma Hield.
“I want to thank all of my supporters and my sponsors for making the training camp happen for me, for me to go to Colombia and perform.”
He thanked Rollin Tyre Importers Limited, Rigger 242 Life, Octobulk, Striker’s Boxing Club, West End Contracting & Repair and Beer Pressure Restuarant and Bar.
Hield noted that the fight was a very “slick” and “hard fight,” but the conditioning and training that he got with Williams in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, he went into the ring with a game plan.
“I wasn’t looking for the knockout. The knockout just came by itself,” said Hield. “My performance was at 150 percent. That fight was just preparing me for a big fight in Caracas, Venezuela.”
On Saturday, March 29, Hield said the Bahamas will witness history as he and Williams go into the ring to fight for two new titles for the Bahamas.
Williams will be fighting for the WBA Fedebol title and Hield will be going for the National Boxing Association World Championship belt.
“I want to give thanks to Four a Four Promotions.
They are the promoters from Colombia,” Hield noted. “He was interested
in me fighting for a while in Venezuela.
“At the same time, they were asking for a 147-pounder and I was able to get them to give Rashield Williams the chance to fight for that title.
“So he gets a chance to fight on the same card to bring two new titles to the Bahamas.”
From their days as amateurs, Heild said he and Williams trained together and fought in many international competitions representing the Bahamas.
So he’s delighted that they can get the opportunity to fight on the same card for two separate belts.
Williams, 35, said as a “risk taker,” whenever the opportunity presents itself, he’s up for the challenge.
He goes into the fight with a 12-3 record having won six of his last seven fights as a welterweight.
“I’m ready for whatever,” he stressed. “You can expect what we always
deliver for the Bahamas, two knockouts. Carl is the flashy boxer and I’m more the aggressive one, so we’re looking forward to putting on a show.”
Both fighters indicated that they will continue to spar and train together in preparation for the dual title shot.
“This is a good opportunity. This is something that has never happened before, so it’s good for us to get this opportunity to showcase our skills together,” Williams stressed.
Hield assured the Bahamian public that history will be made in Venezuela on March 29 and they are both encouraging corporate Bahamas to get on board and lend their financial support to the pair of Bahamian boxers.
Interested persons can contact Hield at 242447-2940 or carlhield@ icloud.com or Williams at 1-954-873-4140 to make a contribution.
DALLAS
MILWAUKEE (AP) —
Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 28 points, pulled down a season-high 19 rebounds and dished out seven assists as the Milwaukee Bucks beat the Denver Nuggets 121-112 last night. The two-time MVP helped Milwaukee offset another brilliant performance from Nikola Jokic, who shot 13 of 16 and had 32 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists. Jokichas 27 triple-doubles in the 53 games the three-time MVP has played this season.
This was the first matchup of the season between these two multiple-MVP winners. The Bucks play at Denver on March 26.
Brook Lopez added 22 points, Damian Lillard 19, Kyle Kuzma 16 and Gary Trent Jr. 15 for the Bucks, who have won five of their last six.
Jamal Murray scored 20 points for the Nuggets.
WARRIORS 121, MAGIC 115
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Stephen Curry scored a season-high 56 points, making 12 3-pointers and outscoring Orlando by himself in the third quarter
of another astounding performance, leading Golden State to a victory.
Curry was 12 for 19 behind the arc in his NBArecord 26th career game with 10 or more 3-pointers. He was 16 of 25 overall and made all 12 of his free throws in Golden State’s fifth straight victory. Paolo Banchero scored 41 points for the Magic and Franz Wagner added 27.
Curry had 22 points in the third quarter, in which Golden State turned a 14-point deficit into a five-point lead. Orlando managed 21 points in the period.
Quinten Post came off the Golden State bench with 18 points and five rebounds, including 10 straight Warrior points in the second period. Draymond Green had 12 points and 10 rebounds.
PELICANS 124, SUNS 116
PHOENIX (AP) — Zion Williamson had his first career triple-double with 27 points, 10 rebounds and 11
and New Orleans beat Phoenix for their third
penultimate game on a 10-day contract, added 20 points and 11 rebounds in 31 minutes of his first start for the Mavericks. Klay Thompson contributed 18.
Irving missed a 3-pointer with Dallas leading 94-91 with 1:52 left but tipped the ball amid a scramble out to Thompson, whose right-corner 3 put the Mavericks ahead 97-91 with 1:48 to play.
Mark Williams had 26 points and 16 rebounds for the Hornets, who have lost five consecutive games and 16 of their last 19. Miles Bridges had 20 points and 12 rebounds.
P.J. Washington Jr. again joined Anthony Davis, Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II among Dallas big men unavailable because of injury. Washington left the Mavericks’ Feb. 8 game with a sprained right ankle and has missed four of seven games since.
LaMelo Ball, who leads the Hornets in scoring and assists, missed his second consecutive game with an ankle injury.
Takeaways Hornets: Charlotte went 1-8 playing nine consecutive road games, matching a franchiselong road run. The last six followed the All-Star break. The Hornets are 1-21 in games without Ball.
Mavericks: At 32-28, the Mavericks are ninth in the Western Conference but only one game out of sixth place and the conference’s last guaranteed playoff berth. ... It was Brown’s highestscoring game since his career-high 24 points for Oklahoma City in the final game of the 2020-21 season.
Up next Hornets will begin a 5-game homestand against Washington Saturday, when the Mavericks will host Milwaukee.
MILWAUKEE Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo tries to get past Denver Nuggets’ Aaron Gordon during the second half last night in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)
CARL Hield flanked by his handlers.
CARL Hield has his hand hoisted in victory.
TRAINING partners Rashield Williams and Carl Hield.
Shaedon Sharpe makes a case for the best dunk in NBA this season
By IAN NICHOLAS QUILLEN Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP)
— Shaedon Sharpe has been one of the NBA’s most gifted young dunk artists since he was selected seventh overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2022 NBA draft.
But he reached a new level on Wednesday night — possibly literally.
Sharpe’s vicious onehanded slam over the unfortunately placed Justin Champagnie was immediately hailed as one of the best in the NBA this season.
He called it the best of his career, and it was part of an all-around career night in Portland’s 129-121 win over Washington Wizards. “I just started like laughing,
like, ‘Wow, man. Poor kid up under him,’” Portland coach Chauncey Billups said of the slam. “That was pretty incredible.”
The 21-year-old Sharpe led Portland with a careerhigh 36 points, shot 13 of 26 from the floor and sank 7 of 10 free throws, including four in a row down the stretch.
And his signature moment originated with an alert defensive play when he swiped Champagnie’s pass beyond the 3-point arc.
Sharpe then took one dribble into the paint and launched so high into the air that even his teammates were in disbelief.
“I don’t know where he got it from,” Blazers forward Deni Avdija said. “I asked him on the bench, ‘If I’m going to work
as hard as I can, will I be able to jump like you?’ I don’t know, it’s just genes.”
Such was the force of his slam that Sharpe crashed briefly to the court after flushing the ball through the net.
“I seen the dude in the way,” Sharpe explained, “so I just jumped and tried to dunk it. And it went in.”
In 33 minutes, Sharpe also had eight rebounds — one shy of another career high — and five assists.
“His offence was incredible,” Billups said.
“I mean it really was. On all three levels he was incredible the entire time. I thought the defense was high-level as well.
“I really did. And his rebounding, he got some really, really big rebounds for us.”
Streaking Pistons rout the Celtics 117-97
DETROIT (AP) —
Malik Beasley scored 26 points, Cade Cunningham had 21 points and 11 assists and the Detroit Pistons beat the Boston Celtics 117-97 on Wednesday night in a matchup of two of the NBA’s hottest teams.
The Pistons (33-26) won their eighth straight and ended a 12-game losing streak against Boston, two nights after stopping a 10-game skid against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Jayson Tatum scored 27 points for Boston, and Derrick White and Payton Pritchard each had 18. Boston (42-17) had won six straight and 10 of 11.
Jalen Duren added 13 points and 11 rebounds for Detroit. The Pistons had a 49-33 rebounding edge.
PACERS 111, RAPTORS 91
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)
— Tyrese Haliburton had 33 points and 11 assists to help Indiana beat Toronto.
Haliburton was 12 of 15 from the field, going 7 of 9 from 3-point range. Myles Turner added 18 points and 10 rebounds and Pascal Siakam had 15 points.
Immanuel Quickley scored 18 points for Toronto. RJ Barrett and Jonathan Mogbo each had 16. Haliburton scored 17 points in the first half to lead Indiana to a 51-41 lead.
Toronto played without Scottie Barnes because if a left hip contusion. He played Tuesday night against Boston.
KNICKS 110, 76ERS 105
NEW YORK (AP) — Jalen Brunson had 34 points and seven assists, Mikal Bridges scored 28 points and New York held off Philadelphia.
OG Anunoby had 16 points and nine rebounds, and Josh Hart added seven points, 17 rebounds and four assists for the Knicks, who won for the fourth time in six games and 11th in their last 15.
Tyrese Maxey scored 30 points for Philadelphia, which lost its ninth straight. Paul George had 25 points,
eight rebounds and seven assists, and Kelly Oubre Jr added 27 points.
TRAILBLAZERS 129, WIZARDS 121 WASHINGTON (AP) — Shaedon Sharpe threw down a vicious one-handed slam that was immediately hailed as one of the best dunks of the season, part of a career-best 36-point performance that carried Portland to a win over Washington.
Sharpe shot 13 of 26 from the floor and and converted all four of his free throws inside the final minute as the Trail Blazers maintained a lead of at least three throughout the fourth quarter.
Anfernee Simons and Scoot Henderson each added 16 points for Portland, which began the night 4 1/2 games back of Sacramento for the the Western Conference’s final play-in spot. Jordan Poole scored 24 points for NBA-worst Washington, which was attempting to win backto-back games for the first time since winning three in a row to begin the month.
Richaun Holmes added a career-high 20 points and Corey Kispeprt also scored 20.
THUNDER 129, NETS 121 NEW YORK (AP) — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 27 points, Chet Holmgren had 22 points and 17 rebounds, and Oklahoma City rebounded from a stunning collapse with a game-changing blitz in the fourth quarter to beat Brooklyn.
Aaron Wiggins added 24 points and Jalen Williams had 22 for the Thunder, who were playing for the first time since their 131128 loss to Minnesota on Monday, when they led by 24 points in the fourth quarter and were still ahead by 16 with under 4 minutes remaining in regulation.
They had some of the same defensive woes in this one, when they allowed a season-high 76 points in the first half and trailed by 18. But then they unleased an 18-0 run in the fourth
quarter, turning a 103-99 deficit into a 117-103 lead.
Oklahoma City outscored Brooklyn 27-7 to begin the period.
Day’Ron Sharpe scored a career-high 25 points in his first start of the season for the Nets, adding 15 rebounds and five assists.
Killian Hayes had a seasonbest 19 points and Cam Johnson also scored 19.
HEAT 131, HAWKS 109
MIAMI (AP) — Tyler
Herro scored 24 points and added 10 assists, Duncan Robinson scored 24 points off the bench and Miami shot a season-best 59% in a win over Atlanta.
Davion Mitchell made all five of his 3-point tries and scored 20 for the Heat, who got 20 points and nine rebounds from Bam Adebayo. Miami made 23 3-pointers, one shy of the franchise record. The Heat had 39 assists on 45 field goals.
Dyson Daniels scored 18 points and Trae Young and Caris LeVert each had 17 for the Hawks — who gave up 65 points in the first half, then 66 more in the second half.
CLIPPERS 122, BULLS 117
CHICAGO (AP) — James Harden made seven 3-pointers and scored 30 points, and Los Angeles beat Chicago.
Kawhi Leonard had 17 points and eight rebounds after missing back-to-back games because of a sore left foot. Amir Coffey scored 20, and Los Angeles got back to winning after losing three in a row.
Derrick Jones Jr. added 16 points. Bogdan Bogdanovic made 4 of 5 3s and finished with 14 points, helping the sixth-place Clippers move a half-game ahead of Minnesota in the Western Conference.
Zach Collins set season highs with 21 points and a
career-best 17 rebounds for Chicago, and Josh Giddey had 21 points and 12 assists.
Coby White scored 19, but the Bulls lost for the seventh time in eight games.
KINGS 118,
JAZZ 101
SALT LAKE CITY (AP)
- Keegan Murray scored a season-high 26 points and Zach Levine added 22 to lift hot-shooting Sacramento to a win over Utah.
Murray made five 3-pointers, Levine had four and Keon Ellis returned to the court to make three 3s as the Kings made 15 of 36 from beyond the arc. Sacramento was equally potent inside the paint with 50 points and shot 52.9% overall to start their four-game road swing.
Murray scored on a mix of dunks, drives and his trademark long jumpers while topping 20 points for the first time since he had 21 on Nov. 24 in a loss to Brooklyn.
Walker Kessler had a season-high 25 points and 14 rebounds for the Jazz and KJ Martin had his best game since arriving in Utah at the trade deadline with 16 points. The Jazz have lost four of their last five. ROCKETS 118, SPURS 106
HOUSTON (AP) — Amen Thompson had 25 points and eight rebounds, Jalen Green added 21 points and seven rebounds and Houston beat San Antonio. Green scored 16 points in the first half to help Houston take a 64-46 lead. Thompson was ejected Tuesday night against Milwaukee for pulling down Giannis Antetokounmpo by the head and neck. Dillon Brooks had 19 points on 5-of-8 shooting from 3-point range for Houston. The Rockets have won three of four since the AllStar break.
DETROIT Pistons forward Paul Reed, centre, is guarded by Boston Celtics forward Drew Peterson (13) and guard Jordan Walsh (27) while going to the basket during the second half on Wednesday night in Detroit.
(AP Photo/ Duane Burleson)
PORTLAND Trail Blazers guard Shaedon Sharpe (17) dunks against Washington Wizards forward Justin Champagnie (9) during the first half on Wednesday in Washington.
PORTLAND Trail Blazers guard Shaedon Sharpe (17) dunks against Washington Wizards forward Justin Champagnie (9) during the first half.
(AP Photos/Jess Rapfogel)
Anton Sealey Jr and Lions win soccer title
FROM PAGE E1
players who are also in some pro camps in Florida,” he said.
“It’s been successful so far.” Through the persistence of his parents, who encouraged him to ensure he has all the tools to be successful, Sealey Jr said he puts in the time to achieve the goals he has set out.
“I feel like I’m blessed coming from a football family that was really supported and I get to meet some good families as well, who have entrusted their children in my care. Based on my playing and coaching background, things have gone very well.”
Now that the high school season is over, Sealey Jr said they will probably play some exhibition games, while he will work on the younger teams, who will resume their competition.
He noted that his junior team is working towards earning the No.1 ranking with an 8-1-1 record with 26 goals for and four against.
He noted that the varsity
has certainly inspired the younger players and so they hope to carry that energy forward.
Like he did last summer, Sealey Jr said he intends to bring his academy back to the Bahamas this summer to play in some games against teams from the Bahamas Football Association.
“I would love to bring some Bahamians to Lake Nona. That is really what I want to do,” he insisted.
“When I got started here, I wanted to establish my coaching reputation.
“Now that I’m starting to do that, I would love to take it back home and allow Bahamians to benefit from it because there is a lot of talent at home, not just with the players, but the coaches as well.”
Sealey Jr is now married to Sarah Elizabeth Sealey and they are the proud parents of two children, Anton D Justin Sealey III, a fiveyear-old who is eager to run for the Bahamas and three-year-old Ruby Chelsea Rose Sealey, who wants to participate in everything.
Jacobi back after 10 months off to recuperate from injury
FROM PAGE E1
the University Tennis Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, New Orleans won the match 4-0.
A week later on February 11, Bain made his return at home at the XULA Tennis Center with Suarez as they led 4-1 before the Dillard duo of Siddarth Arya and Jesus Rodriquez was unable to finish. The Gold Rush went on to win the matchup 4-2. On February 21 at the JSU Tennis Center in Jackson, Mississippi, Bain teamed up with Niereo Suarez as they defeated Ching Chang/Maas Schotanus to win their doubles match 6-3. Bain also secured a 6-4, 7-5 win in singles over Schotanus in a 4-2 Gold Rush loss. And in a 5-2 win for the Gold Rush over Loyola on February 25 at home at the XULA Tennis Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, Bain and Suarez once again combined to clinch
a 6-1 win over Remus Hebhang-Balan/Akhil Indrabalan in doubles.
“I’m starting to feel like myself again. I’m slowly getting back there, slowly getting back my speed and my agility, just moving side to side, so it feels good,” Bain said. “Since I’ve been back, I won my first two singles matches, so that’s a big confidencs booster for me.” Diagnosed with a partial tear in his ACL and a meniscus tear, Bain said he spent the past 10 months doing physical therapy and rehab every day, trying to get back into some jumping rhythm.
“I would be in the training every day from 9am to 12pm just trying to get back to myself,” Bain said. “It feels great to be back. It feels even better to be around the guys knowing that I can help them to get better.”
Looking at his performances so far, Bain said he just needs to work a little
more on his backhand, which has always been his forte, and improving on his serve.
As a senior, completing his studies with a major in mass communication and a minor in business management, Bain said his goal is to go out with a bang when he graduates on May 10.
“This is a big year for me. It’s my final year of eligibility so I just want to do everything I can to help the team and to win a big one,” he said. “After graduation, we will figure everything out. I have a few options.
“I may be in coaching or doing some other stuff. So, I’m just trying to weigh out my options and see what’s best for me. There maybe some plans to play some doubles professionally, but we will see how the body feels after graduation.”
The 6-foot, 1-inch, 190pound son of local coaches Marion and Bradley Bain said his experience so far in college has given him
a perspective on life and being a man. “I need to take care of myself. My parents are not there to take care of me anymore, so I need to do what is right like going to the gym, training and making sure my body is right,” he stated. “It has just given me a new perspective on life that I would have never thought about in the past.”
With a 2-3 win-loss record, Bain will be back in action Monday when they head to Mississippi to take on William Carey at the WCU Tennis Complex with eight more games on the regular season. They will then participate in the NAIA Unaffiliated Group Tournament on April 17 at the Blossom Tennis Center in San Antonio, Texas, before they wrap up their season at the NAIA National Championship Tournament at the Copeland-Complex Mobile Tennis Center in Mobile, Alabama.
AUSTIN Sealey Jr’s children - Ruby and Anton III.
ANTON SEALEY JR, his personal assistant Maria Clara Rocha and assistant coach Alex Bright display the Nona Lake Lions’ winning trophies.
COACH Anton Sealey Jr and his Nona Lake Lions players in a huddle.
Aspiring golfers prepare for the National High School Championships
FROM PAGE E1
their enthusiasm and commitment was truly inspiring. “We were especially impressed by the students’ engagement skills during their media interviews. They confidently reflected on their experiences, shared details of their personal growth in the sport, and expressed their aspirations for the future.
“Their poise and professionalism were a testament to the value of sports programmes like this which is not only to develop athletic ability, but also foster essential skills to thrive in any environment such as communication, discipline, and perseverance.”
As the title sponsors of the fifth-edition of the annual National School Golf Championships, Charles said they are proud to support this incredible initiative and remain committed to investing in opportunities that empower young athletes.
“Golf is a sport that teaches focus, integrity, and resilience - qualities that will serve these students well both on and off the course,” she stated. “We look forward to an exciting championship ahead. The future of golf in The Bahamas is bright, and we are honoured to play a role in its continued growth.”
Georgette Rolle-Harris said when Capital Union Bank extended the invitation for them to visit their facilities last week, the golfers were eager to meet the principals.
“It’s huge. We continue to speak to kids about how rear it is to have companies of this magnitude to pour into our sport,” Rolle-Harris said. “So it just shows the kids the possible doors that can be opened through this game.”
Madison Carroll, a student of Bahamas Global Academy, said she just recently participated in a tournament at the Ocean Club and it helped her to prepare for the nationals.
“I just need to work on my drills and the aspects of
my game to forward them into a better consistency level,” she said. “I feel like it comes with a lot of determination, perseverance and hard work to push yourself to be better. So, I hope to be better prepared to compete in the Nationals.”
Anissa Robinson, a 14-year-old student of Achievers Christian Academy, said it’s a great opportunity to meet some great people like the sponsors. “It pushes me to high expectations and it puts my name out there so that people can notice me and give me more opportunities,” she said. “I’m looking forward to winning and pushing my school out there because it is a small school.”
Zakary Joseph, another 14-year-old from Achievers Christian Academy, said last year he didn’t play his best but, this year, he wants to “shock everybody by going out there and shooting some low scores.”
As for the visit to the bank, Joseph said it was an honour to be invited to attend the courtesy call. He hopes to take advantage of it in the near future.
Rashawn Hanna, also a 14-year-old student of Achievers Christian Academy, said his game has improved, but he wants to push himself to achieve greater success at the nationals. “When I’m on the golf course, my emotions get the best of me so I’m trying to control that right now,” he said. “My coach told me to just take a five-minute break and breath, relax and empty my mind. “I’m trying to shoot no more than a 28. If I can do that, I know I can shoot the ball very well, I want to push myself to the limit and dominate my age group. because I came third last year.”
Hallie Hall, a 13-year-old student of Bahamas Global Academy, has been playing golf for the past seven years, but she insisted that her game could be much better than it is. “I just need to focus more so that I can play better,” she said. “I
NATIONAL High School Golf Championships practice session.
want to get first in my division and help my school to win. I’m just glad to be here because this gives me an opportunity to get my name out there.”
Deandrey Poitier, who also attends Bahamas Global Academy, said his game is up and down.
“Since the last tournament, I wasn’t really focused because of the scores that I shot on some holes. That kind of messed up my mind set and I didn’t focus,” he said. “I was a bit mind because of the scores I shot. “But I need to work on my decision-making and get more serious when I am on the course.”
Zaire Poitier, a nine-yearold grade five home school student, said it’s been an
“exciting, but very challenging experience” so far playing golf with “a lot of emotions” packed into one.
“I need to work my swing combos, my approach shots and my putting,” she insisted. “I’m looking forward to the competition.”
Her younger sister Zion Poitier, a fifth grader, said it’s been an “amazing experience” for her so far because she’s been travelling a lot with her sisters.
“I just need to work on my chipping, my putting and my irons and I will be ready,” she stated, adding that she’s not concerned about “any of the competition.”
As a twin to Zion, Zedan Poitier said she and her siblings have been performing
BASKETBALL playoff results for Wednesday. Games were played at the C I Gibson Gymnasium on Marathon Road.
Playoffs Day Two
Junior Boys Division 1 vs 2
Akhepran International Academy
30 defeated Teleos Christian School
19
Game MVP - Renaldo Roberts no. 30 -Akpheran - had thirteen (13) points in the win. Luke Dorcely -Teleos- had twelve (12) points in the loss.
Akhepran moves on to the championship and Teleos continues in the fight for another day.
Primary Boys 1 vs 2
Temple Christian School 25
defeated Jordan Prince William 10
Game MVP - Antonio Hanna -
Temple Christian - had fifteen (15) points for the win.
Lebron Taylor - JPW - had four (4) points for the loss.
very well. “I love golf. It’s very easy to learn, but if you stick with it, you will get good at it,” she said. “I’m looking forward to coming first with an awesome score. I’m not concerned about who is playing, I just want to win.”
Riannah Hanna, an 11-year-old grade seven student at Achievers Christian Academy, has been participating in golf for three years because she stopped, only to return last year.
“It’s been good,” said Hanna, who took a year off to participate in some other sports. “I missed it, so I just need to practice physically on my swing combos and my grip and focus on my chipping. I’m not concerned about anybody out there.”
Temple Christian moves on to the championship round and Prince William continues in the fight for another day.
Primary Boys 6 vs 9
Temple Christian School B 9
defeated Teleos Christian School 0
Game MVP - Temple B - Lynden Nicolas - had six (6) points in the win.
Skyrah Chambers, a nineyear-old grade four student, said while she’s doing very well in school, she’s looking forward to having a very good tournament.
“I want to get at least a second place in the tournament.
“If I do get first place, I would be even happier, but I am aiming to at least get second place,” she said.
“I don’t want to put too much expectations out there.”
Eva Hilton and Windsor Academy are the defending primary and high school champions respectively as they compete in a field of more than 400 golfers from 30 schools from New Providence, Eleuthera and South Andros.
Temple Christian B moves on to the next round. Teleos season is over!
Senior Girls Division 1 vs 2
R. M. Bailey 23 defeated Teleos Christian School 13
Game MVP - Weddalinnesi Alexis no. 9 - R. M. Bailey - had ten (10) points in the win.
Lydia Parks - Teleos - had nine (9) points in the loss.
R. M. Bailey moves on to the championship round and Teleos continues in the fight for another day.
Senior Boys Division 3 vs 4
Greenville Preparatory Academy 48 defeated Akhepran International Academy 36
Game MVP - Irvin McpheeGreenville - had nineteen (19) points in the win. Delroy Mackey - Akhepran - had eight (8) points in the loss.
CAPITAL Union Bank executives met with some of the golfers participating in the National High School Golf Tournament next month.
Mingoes stop Midnight Aces
THE University of The Bahamas Mingoes women’s volleyball team needed the full match, including an extended fifth set, to take out The Midnight Aces in UB Showcase action at The Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium on Tuesday.
The Mingoes won in five sets - 25-17, 25-19, 18-25, 17-25 and 17-15. Behind the strong attack from hitter Miracle Stubbs, the Mingoes started off strong going up 7-1 in the first set and eventually took the set 25-17. Stubbs continued her strong hitting - ending with 12 kills on the night - into the second set as the Mingoes took that set 25-19.
In the third set, the Aces started off strong with a 6-0 start, forcing a Mingoes timeout. The Mingoes were able to claw back to a 16-16 tie but the Aces’ attack was too strong and the Mingoes fell 25-18.
The fourth set started a bit more even for the Mingoes with the team only trailing 15-12 at one point. The Aces were able to find holes in the Mingoes’ backcourt and took the set 25-17.
In the decisive fifth set, the Mingoes tied the Aces seven times at 6, 8, 9, 10, 11 and deuce at 14 and 15. With The Mingoes leading 16-15 and after two volleys, UB setter Zaria Rose, with a near perfect outside set to Hanna McBride, drew an Aces player in for a net violation to end the match.
by UB
Athletics
GO MINGOES: UB Mingoes bench players react to their team winning the second set against The Midnight Aces at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium in UB Showcase action. The Mingoes won in five sets.
UB Mingoes setter Zaria Rose goes up for a dink.
UB Mingoes setter Zaria Rose passes the ball.
UB Mingoes hitter Davanna Douglas goes up for a block.
UB Mingoes setter Zaria Rose sets the ball. UB Mingoes hitter Miracle Stubbs digs the ball.
Photos
ANTHAYA CHARLTON
TIMOTHY MUNNINGS
Athletes of the Month
Anthaya Charlton and Tim Munnings secure the top honours in February
Bahamian athletes Anthaya Charlton and Timothy Munnings put together recordbreaking performances in February to be named the Tribune’s Athletes of the Month.
The Tribune Sports section will recognise the efforts of athletes across all sporting disciplines and award a top male and female candidate at the end of each respective month, culminating with the athlete of the year distinction.
Female Winner -
Anthaya Charlton
Anthaya Charlton, who attends the University of Florida, opened
February by taking down Daphne Saunders’ indoor national record for the women’s long jump event at the 2025 Razorback Invitational hosted at the Randal Tyson Indoor Centre in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
The 21-year-old pulled off a world-leading jump of 6.98 metres and in the process set a new personal best, faculty and meet record in her victory. Her remarkable performance allowed her to erase the previous Bahamian indoor national record of 6.82 metres set by Saunders on February 26, 1994 in Gainesville, Florida.
Charlton’s winning leap allowed her to surpass American Olympian Tara Davis-Woodhall’s previous faculty record of 6.93m, set in 2021. Additionally, she smashed the former world indoor champion’s meet record of 6.76m which was set just last year. Her season-opening jump placed her second all-time for the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) indoors and second in the University of Florida’s programme history. She returned to competition on February 14 at the Tyson Invitational in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
She placed fifth overall with a leap of 6.56m.
Male WinnerTimothy Munnings Bahamian Olympian Tim Munnings is giving “father time” a run for its money in 2025.
After unofficially setting a new record in the masters 55-59 (outdoor) 400m event in January, Munnings lowered his time substantially at the 19th Diana Lynn-Thompson Road Runners Track and Field Classic earlier this month. He crossed the finish line at 51.18 seconds to lower his previous mark of 52.04 seconds - set at
the DTSP WolfPack/Mike Sands Track Classic in January - to claim the official title of fastest man in the masters 55-59 (outdoor) 400m event. The 2001 World Outdoor relay gold medallist capped off the event in fourth position. With “father time” in the rearview mirror for now, Munnings intends to keep his success going at the 2025 World Masters Athletics Indoor Championships scheduled for March 23-30 in Gainesville, Florida. Be on the lookout for the March edition of Tribune Athletes of the Month.
