SPORTS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 2025
Kai Jones hits career-high 21
By BRENT STUBBS
Coach Jason Kidd said Bahamian Kai Jones was a welcome sight to behold for his Dallas Mavericks and all of the injuries they have experienced this season.
Jones, the second Bahamian big man to suit up for the Mavericks, scored a career-high 21 points with eight rebounds and a block in a 122-98 loss to the Sacramento Kings on Monday night.
The performance came as Dallas signed Jones to a two-way contract the same day to deal with multiple big men, including Anthony Davis, Daniel
Makes his presence felt with Dallas Mavericks
Gafford, Dereck Lively II and PJ Washington on the injured list. The 6-foot-11 Jones was coming off waivers from the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday and provided an infusion of some fresh new talent after Kyrie Irving went down with an injury in the first quarter. Irving, who has taken over as the heart and soul of Dallas in wake of an unexpected trade of Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers for Davis last month, was diagnosed after Monday’s game with a torn ACL and will be out for the remainder of the season.
A first-round draftee by the New York Knicks in 2021, Jones appeared in 28 games for the Clippers, but spent a lot of time playing with their G-League team.
“He was great. He just got here,” said Kidd about Jones’ quick transition into the Mavericks line-up. “He was really good, both being able to score on the floor and rebound for us in the 30 minutes that he played.” Jones, 24, was the second big man to play for the Mavericks, following in the footsteps of Eleuthera native Dexter Cambridge, who during the 19921993 season, averaged 7.0 points on 48.4 field goals per season, 3.2 rebounds and 1.1 assists. The 6-foot, 7-inch small forward out of AF Adderley, Lon Morris and the University of Texas at Austin, was undrafted.
Major Jr:
‘My team is playing pretty well’
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor
MICHAEL Major Jr and his Howard University Bison men’s tennis team head into Spring Break with a tough 4-3 loss to North Carolina AT&T on Tuesday at the USTA Training Center in Orlando, Florida.
Major Jr, the 6-foot, 2-inch sophomore playing as the top seed in both singles and doubles, teamed up with Marcel Dawson to beat North Carolina’s Said Akbarov and Ian Pedersen won 6-1 in doubles.
Major Jr also won 6-4, 6-2 over Pedersen from North Carolina in singles.
“North Carolina AT&T is a very good team. The guy I played in singles, he played against Wake Forest, who won the NIT Tournament.
“He (Pedersen) took Wake Forest’s top player to three sets.
“So, for me to put my best foot forward and
VALDEZ NAMED JERRY WEST AWARD FINALIST
He ended up taking his game to Europe where he played with several teams until he retired in 2001.
In coming right in and making his adjustment to the Mavericks’ line-up that includes Bahamian descent Klay Thompson,
play my best tennis today against him (Pedersen) shows the level that I can play,” Major Jr said.
“I think I performed extremely well. I just executed. I didn’t do anything special. I just had good execution today and was mentally tough. I stayed strong through every point. It was pretty routine. I did what I had to do and the results were in my favour.” With the loss, the Bison dropped to 2-5, but despite the win-loss record, Major Jr said they are playing as best as they can.
“My team is playing pretty well. AT&T is a tough team. We lost to them 5-2 last year. We had the opportunity to win 4-3 today, but it is what it is. Things happen.
“The loss hurt a lot of the guys, but I think it showed the team the level that we can compete at and the level that we could win. There’s no team who could ever whip us out. That is what we learned from this match today.”
said he was able to fit in on the offensive end with his “screening and rolling” and just “spreading the floor.
“I want to continue doing that. I feel I can grab some more rebounds and block some more shots.
Major Jr and the Bison are scheduled to be back in action after Spring Break on March 14 against Hartford Community College and on March 16 against Bucknell. Then they will play three consecutive Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) round up matches against Norfolk State at College Park on March 28, South Carolina
State on March 29 and North Carolina Central on March 30. “It’s good conference competition and it’s good for rankings for the end of the season MEAC Championships,” he said. “We just have to go out there and put our foot down and play.”
The MEAC Championships are scheduled for April 24-26 in Cary, North Carolina.
So that’s what I’m going to focus on.” Jones, who excelled in high school at the Orlando Christian Prep and Brewster Academy, went on to play for the Texas
SINCE the beginning of the 2024-25 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) division one basketball season, expectations were high for Baylor freshman guard Valdez “VJ” Edgecombe Jr and it would be remiss to say he has not lived up to those expectations.
The Bimini native has certainly found his footing with the Baylor Bears as the season progressed in the Big 12 Conference, making him a top five finalist for the 2025 Jerry West Shooting Guard Award as announced yesterday by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
Baylor is in an exclusive group of just three schools to have a Jerry West Award finalist in three out of their last five seasons. The group also includes Arizona and Kansas.
Edgecombe Jr joined the company of former Baylor backcourt stars Adam Flagler (2023) and MaCio Teague (2021) to be selected as a finalist by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
“VJ” made the final five along with Caleb Love (Arizona), PJ Haggerty (Memphis), Chaz Lanier (Tennessee) and Tre Johnson (Texas).
Prior to the start of the collegiate basketball season, the Baylor freshman guard was one of 20 guards to make the Jerry West Shooting Guard of the
BFA ANNOUNCES ‘JUNKANOO BOYZ’ OFFICIAL ROSTER
THE Bahamas Football Association (BFA) is excited to announce the official roster of the Bahamas national men’s beach soccer team, affectionately known as the Junkanoo Boyz. With their impressive number five ranking in Concacaf and No.33 world ranking, the Junkanoo Boyz are ready to defend their turf on the international stage in the upcoming 2025 Concacaf Beach Soccer Championship.
The team has demonstrated consistent growth, solidifying their position as one of the top beach soccer teams in the region.
‘Junkanoo Boyz’ Beach Soccer Team Roster: Michael Butler (goalkeeper); Julio Jameson (goalkeeper); Lesly St. Fleur (defender); Kyle Williams (defender); Brandon Adderley (forward); Peter Julmis (forward); Jean Francois (defender);
SWIMMING LAST CHANCE CARIFTA MEET BAHAMAS Aquatics has announced that its Last Chance Meet for swimmers wishing to qualify for the 2025 CARIFTA Swimming Championships will be held over the weekend of March 14-15 at the Betty Kelly Kenning Swim Complex.
The event is open to all Bahamas
Aquatics-registered swimmers who have previously competed in a Bahamas Aquatics competition.
Swimmers who have not competed in a specific event previously will not be allowed to register for that event. (No Time Entries will not be accepted for this meet).
The first session is scheduled for 6pm on
SEE PAGE E7
MICHAEL Major Jr in action.
NEWLY signed Dallas Mavericks player Kai Jones jogs upcourt in the first half against the Sacramento Kings in Dallas on Monday, March 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
BFA ANNOUNCES THE OFFICIAL ROSTER OF MEN’S NATIONAL BEACH SOCCER TEAM - ‘JUNKANOO BOYZ’
FROM PAGE E1
Timothy Munnings (forward); Creven Ferguson (forward); Dwayne Forbes (defender); Lekenson Chery (forward) and Renardo McCullam (defender).
The coaching staff consists of head coach Francis Farberoff; assistant coach Gavin Christie and goalkeeper coach Torin Ferguson. The team manager is Larry Minns, assisted by Cameron Hanna. The team doctor, Dr. Sandeep Goud and the trainer is Karen Wert. The team, led by Farberoff, combines a blend of seasoned players and new talent, all committed to taking the Bahamas to greater heights in international beach soccer. With their top five ranking in Concacaf and the ambition to improve upon their semifinal appearance in the 2023 Concacaf Beach Soccer Championship, the Junkanoo Boyz are determined to make an impact at this year’s competition.
Reflecting on past achievements and looking ahead, the Junkanoo Boyz made history in 2023 with their remarkable run to the semifinals of the Concacaf Beach Soccer Championship, which is the team’s best finish to date.
Their strong performance highlighted their skill and determination and now, with a stronger squad and experienced coaching staff, they are ready to make their mark again in 2025.
REAL MADRID BEATS ATLETICO 2-1 IN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DERBY, ARSENAL ROMPS TO RECORD AWAY WIN AT PSV
By SAMUEL PETREQUIN
AP Sports Writer
A SUPERB goal from Brahim Diaz helped Real Madrid maintain its dominance of the Madrid derby on Europe’s biggest stage with a 2-1 victory over bitter rival Atletico in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie on Tuesday. Atletico has been beaten by the record 15-time European champion in both Champions League final matchups and has won only three of 11 meetings with their city rivals in UEFA competitions. Also Tuesday, Arsenal made a massive step toward a quarterfinal spot with a 7-1 win at PSV Eindhoven. It was the biggest
victory in an away match in the knockout stage of the Champions League, UEFA said.
“It’s a massive result away from home in a competition that we love, that we miss for so many years,” Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said. “Today is a really special night for us.”
On a good night for Premier League teams, Aston Villa won 3-1 at Club Brugge, and Borussia Dortmund drew 1-1 with Lille. A tense encounter in the Spanish capital was decided by a moment of individual brilliance. Diaz scored the winner for Real Madrid after squeezing past a couple of Atletico players and curling a low strike into the far corner in the 55th minute.
Diego Simeone’s team could not change the script after losing its finals to Madrid in 2014 and 2016. It was also eliminated the other two times they faced off in the knockout rounds — in the 2015 quarterfinals and 2017 semifinals.
Playing at home at Santiago Bernabeu stadium, Real Madrid took the lead on its first chance through a great goal from Rodrygo. After being picked up down the flank, he cut inside the box, was too fast for defenders and beautifully curled the ball into the back of the net.
“It stemmed from a nice ball from Fede Valverde,” Rodrygo said. “He absolutely read my movement and put the ball in behind the man covering me. I
made a little dribble inside and then smashed it off my left.”
Atletico patiently waited for an opportunity. It came in the 32nd minute and Julian Alvarez seized it with a spectacular strike. The forward collected the ball down the left, cut inside the box and curled the ball past Thibaut Courtois for his seventh goal in the tournament this season.
“I leave with the feeling that we competed well,” Atletico coach Diego Simeone said. “We could have done more in terms of the goals we conceded. We must continue with this rhythm for the second leg, which will be tough and difficult, and in which we will have the support of our fans.”
The 2025 Concacaf Beach Soccer Championship at the Malcolm Park Beach Soccer Facility in Nassau is a free event and will feature the top teams from across the region, including the Bahamas (Junkanoo Boyz), Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Trinidad and Tobago and the United States.
The Junkanoo Boyz will compete in the group stage against these formidable teams, aiming to showcase their skill and determination in front of a home crowd.
Gunners romp to emphatic win Arsenal, which returned to the Champions League after a six-year absence last season, got off a shaky start and Jurrien Timber scored against the run of the play with a header at the far post, just after PSV hit the woodwork.
The London team never looked back after that and led 3-0 at the half-hour mark. Seventeen-year-old Ethan Nwaneri doubled the lead in the 21st after his teammates combined well
in the area to set him up. Mikel Merino then made the most of the confusion in the box to make it 3-0 after PSV repeatedly failed to clear the ball. A silly foul from Thomas Partey on Luuk de Jong in the box gave PSV some hope before halftime and Noa Lang converted. But PSV crumbled once back from the locker room. Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard scored twice, with Leandro Trossard and Riccardo Calafiori adding more luster to the win.
FORMER SOCCER LEADERS BLATTER, PLATINI RETURN TO COURT FOR
By GRAHAM DUNBAR AP Sports Writer
NEW FRAUD TRIAL OVER $2M FIFA PAYMENT
MUTTENZ, Switzerland (AP) — Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter distanced himself from corruption in soccer when he went on trial Monday for the second time alongside his one-time protege Michel Platini.
Blatter and Platini returned to a federal court room nearly three years after they were acquitted at a first trial in July 2022 on charges of fraud, forgery and misappropriation of FIFA money. Swiss federal prosecutors appealed against those verdicts.
Blatter approved a FIFA payment of 2 million Swiss francs (now $2.21 million) to France soccer great Platini in 2011 for backdated work as a presidential advisor a decade earlier.
“When you talk about falsehoods, lies and deceptions, that is not me,” the 88-year-old Blatter said in German to three judges hearing the case. “That didn’t exist in my whole life.”
Blatter and Platini deny wrongdoing in a case now in its 10th year that ended the political careers of arguably the two most influential men in world soccer who led FIFA and European governing body UEFA. They have consistently claimed at five different judicial bodies — twice at FIFA, then the Court of Arbitration for Sport and now two Swiss federal criminal courts — they had a verbal “gentleman’s agreement” to one day settle the unpaid and non-contracted salary.
Federal prosecutors indictment in November 2021 said the
payment “damaged FIFA’s assets and unlawfully enriched Platini.”
“There’s no corruption, no scam, nothing at all,” Platini said after five hours in court on the first of four scheduled days.
The acquittal came nearly seven years after the investigation was opened and removed them from office. It also ended Platini’s campaign as the favoured candidate to succeed Blatter, his former political mentor.
“I am hopeful,” Blatter told reporters in German entering the courthouse appearing frail one week before his 89th birthday. He arrived at court 10 minutes after Platini — one-time allies at FIFA, turned rivals for control of soccer’s governing body until 2015, now co-accused for almost a decade. Their second trial is due to end
Thursday, with reserve days booked after Blatter’s 89th birthday next Monday. The verdict from three judges is scheduled for March 25.
Prosecutor Thomas Hildbrand, a veteran of FIFA investigations dating back more than two decades, has asked for sentences of 20 months, suspended for two years.
Blatter was president of FIFA and the most influential figure in world soccer for 17 years until being ousted early from office in 2015 amid fallout from a corruption crisis in the sport.
Platini was a storied former captain and coach of the France national term, then organising the 1998 World Cup in his home country, when he worked to help Blatter get elected to lead FIFA in Paris on the eve of the tournament.
BAHAMAS national men’s beach soccer team, affectionately known as the “Junkanoo Boyz.”
REAL Madrid’s Brahim Diaz, right, celebrates with his head coach Carlo Ancelotti yesterday after scoring his side’s second goal. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)
Ahkeel Williams rising performer in under-17 boys’ javelin throw
By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net
BLUE Chip Athletics
thrower Ahkeel Williams is quietly wreaking havoc on the javelin scene at the junior level at just 14-years-old.
The rising javelin aficionado flew under the radar last track and field season, while surpassing the under-17 boys’ CARIFTA-qualifying standards a few times with impressive throws.
Despite his success at the time, he was unable to make the CARIFTA cut due to being just 13-yearsold last season.
One season later, the Queen’s College student has picked up right where he left off last season and has surpassed the CARIFTA-qualifying mark of 44.95 metres on multiple
occasions to emerge as one of the top javelin throwers of the season.
Williams spoke about how it feels to finally make it count. “It feels good. I just give all thanks to God for allowing me to have injury-free meets and injury-free throws. It feels good because last year I was kind of disappointed because I made the marks so I wanted to go but my parents and coach [Corrington] Maycock said to just give it some time because next year I will be better. This year I feel good and I just want to go over there and bring back gold for the country and want to try to get the record too,” he said.
Although he felt delayed but not denied, Williams trusted the process and was finally able to qualify at the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations
(BAAA) Odd Distance Meet last year.
“It made me stronger mentally. Last summer my coach and I worked on techniques. Also, during the summer I had a minor scar tissue injury in my arm and that set me back a little. I went to therapy and we got back into training and in the weight room. My first meet back from injury was Odd Distance and that is when I qualified and threw over 51m,” he said.
He has consistently elevated his throws at the local track and field meets this season and currently owns a season’s best throw of 53.82m, achieved at the Star Performers Track & Field Classic last month.
His goal is to not only exceed 60m heading into the 2025 CARIFTA Trials but also make a run for the under-17 boys’ CARIFTA javelin record of 68.84m set
by Antigua and Barbuda’s Maliek Francis last year at the CARIFTA Games in St George’s, Grenada.
“Leading up to the CARIFTA Trials, I want to be at 60m because the record is 68m. I want to be close to the record by the CARIFTA Games,” he said.
The CARIFTA Games record is not the only one that the Queen’s College student has his sights on.
With the 2025 Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) Track and Field Championships set to begin today, Williams has plans to leave with another record.
“My mind is just focused on the record. My parents and my coaches are focused on the record,” he said.
Last year while representing the Comets he posted a winning throw of 44.98m to exceed Pete Smith’s 20-year under-15
chip thrower Ahkeel Williams is quietly making a name for himself in the under-17 boys’
boys’ javelin record of 44.87m at the meet.
After the BAISS Track and Field Championships, Williams intends to continue fine-tuning his run-up and release technique leading up to the 2025
Bud Light and Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits deliver unforgettable NFL experiences for Bahamian fans
NASSAU, Bahamas
– Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to elevating fan experiences, Bud Light, in collaboration with its Bahamas distributor, Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits, once again delighted football enthusiasts by offering exclusive opportunities to attend premier NFL events, including a Miami Dolphins game and Super Bowl LIX.
Recognising the passion of the Bahamas’ football enthusiasts, Bud Light expanded its annual giveaways, offering two major promotions. The first rewarded four winners with an all-expenses-paid trip to Miami to witness the Dolphins face off against the San Francisco 49ers on December 22.
Winners Sonia Knowles, Jeffrey Burnside, Terrance Henfield, and William Major, along with their guests, immersed themselves in an unforgettable live game-day experience, which included flights, ground transportation,
meals, drinks, and a three night hotel stay.
The group also celebrated the Dolphins’ win with a dinner on the historic Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale. “The entire Bud Light experience was phenomenal,” said winner Jeffrey Burnside. “From the moment I was informed, the process was seamless - every detail was covered, from documentation to ticket confirmations. When they say ‘all expenses paid,’ they mean it. My only regret? Wishing it lasted longer!”
Bud Light further extended its engagement by offering fans another chance to win a oncein-a-lifetime experience - an all-expenses-paid trip to Super Bowl LIX.
Customers who participated in the initial giveaway by purchasing two six-packs of Bud Light were automatically entered for a chance to attend the biggest event in football. Winners Davina Knowles and Patrick Kemp, along with their guests Cyril Robinson and Natalya Ash, were selected to experience the Super Bowl firsthand.
EVENT
a
An avid Eagles fan, Davina Knowles described the experience as unparalleled.
“Watching the Super Bowl live was absolutely exhilarating. The atmosphere, the energy, and the VIP treatment from AnheuserBusch made it a top-tier experience,” she shared.
“Beyond the game, the tailgate and meet-and-greet at the Mardi Gras Expo were incredible highlights.”
The promotion was made available across 40 participating liquor stores, bars, and restaurants throughout
party
the
Light
Nassau, Grand Bahama, Eleuthera and Abaco.
Fans had multiple ways to enter, including purchasing two six-packs of Bud Light at select independent venues, where they could also enjoy Bud Light buckets and exclusive giveaways.
While winners experienced the action live, Bud Light ensured that fans at home were not left out.
The Cricket Club in Nassau hosted an official Super Bowl watch party, recreating the excitement of the stadium atmosphere for local fans. The event featured a pre-game party with DJ entertainment, setting
the stage for the big game.
After the final whistle, the celebration continued with an action-filled post-game party, showcasing authentic Rake and Scrape music from The Pond Band, and music by DJ Tank.
“The Super Bowl watch party was a tremendous success,” said Cortez Cooper, Bud Light brand manager.
“We transformed the venue into the ultimate football experience, complete with a game-day setup including three 30-foot screens showing the game, theatre sound
system, plentiful seating, food vendors, and, of course, ice-cold Bud Light. The response from fans was incredible and the excitement surrounding this year’s promotion exceeded expectations. Bud Light remains committed to delivering unforgettable moments for our customers.”
Bud Light will continue its efforts in creating unique experiences for its consumers, with future promotions planned for additional NFL games and other high-profile events globally.
THE Bahamas Scholastic Athletic Association continued its basketball playoffs on Monday at the C.I Gibson Gym. Here’s a look at the results: Playoffs Day Five Super Mini Division 1 VS 2 Akhepran International Academy 18 defeated ISBET 3 Game MVP - Ayden Butler - Akhepran - had ten (10) pts, 10 rebs, 1 stl and 1 blk in the win.
Kemuel Sterling - ISBET - had two (2) pts, 5 rebs and 5 stls in the loss.
Akhepran moves on to the championship and ISBET continues the fight to another day!
Primary Boys Division 7
Genesis Academy 24 defeated Kingsway Academy 17 Game MVP - Rahj Bain - Genesis - had fourteen (14) pts, 8 rebs and 1 stl in the win.
Yorrick Carroll Jr. - Kingsway - had eight (8) pts. 6 stls, 1 reb in the loss. Genesis moves on to the next round and Kingsway season is over!
Primary Girls Division 5 Thelma Gibson Primary 3 defeated Teleos Christian School 2 Game MVP - Tianna Knowles - two (2) pts. in the Angel Almanor - Tianna Knowles - Teleos - had two 2 (pts.) in the loss.
Thelma continues in the fight and Teleos season is over!
Junior Boys Divison 5 Greenville Preparatory Academy 40 defeated Genesis Academy 34 Game MVP - Sacari Thurston - Greenville - had thirteen (13) pts, 5 rebs, 5 stls, 5 asts. and 2 blks in the win. Caz Bethel -Genesis - had seven (7) pts, in the loss. Greenville moves on to the next round and Genesis season is over!
-Teleos- had ten (10) pts, 3 rebs, 7 stls. in the win. Kendrick Ferguson -ISBET - had nineteen (19) pts, 1 reb, 1 ast and 1 stl. in the
Teleos moves on to the championship round and ISBET continues the fight for another day!
Senior Boys Division 4 Genesis Academy 49 defeated Greenville Preparatory Academy 45 Game MVP - Alex Braunchil -Genesis - had seventeen (17) pts, 7 rebs, 1 stl. in the win. Malik Humes - Greenville - had thirteen (13) pts and 7 stls. in the loss. Genesis moves on to the next round and Greenville season is over!
CARIFTA Games. There is no doubt he will be one to look out for as the season progresses. The 2025 CARIFTA Games is slated for April 19-21 in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago.
BLUE
javelin throw event.
THE
featured
pre-game
with
Bud
Girls, DJ entertainment, setting the stage for the big game. After the final whistle, the celebration continued with an action-filled post-game party, showcasing authentic Rake and Scrape music from The Pond Band, and music by DJ Tank.
WINNERS SONIA KNOWLES, Jeffrey Burnside, Terrance Henfield and William Major along with their guests.
LeBron James becomes
By GREG BEACHAM AP Sports Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — LeBron James became the first player in NBA history to score 50,000 combined points in the regular season and postseason last night.
James surpassed the mark with a 3-pointer early in the first quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against the New Orleans Pelicans.
James got to 49,999 points Sunday night when he scored 17 while the Lakers beat the Clippers 108-102 for their sixth consecutive win.
The 40-year-old James already is the top scorer in NBA history in both
the regular season and the playoffs during a career in which he has rewritten all previous definitions of basketball longevity.
James reached 50,000 points deep into his 22nd season, which ties him with Vince Carter for the most played in NBA history.
Lakers great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who played 20 seasons, is second in NBA history with 44,149 combined points. And while nearly every other NBA player who lasted to his late 30s finished at a fraction of his peak powers, James’ game shows no significant signs of decline in his 40s. He was named the NBA’s Western Conference player
of the month earlier Tuesday after he averaged 29.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, 6.9 assists and 1.2 steals in February while playing more than 35 minutes per game for the Lakers, who went 9-2 to surge into second place in the West.
James began Tuesday at third in NBA history with 1,547 regular-season games played, trailing only Robert Parish (1,611) and AbdulJabbar (1,560).
If he stays healthy and elects to return for a record 23rd season, he will likely surpass Parish next winter.
James has also played in 287 postseason games, the most in NBA history.
He became the league’s career playoff scoring
leader on May 25, 2017, when he surpassed Michael Jordan’s total of 5,987 during the Cleveland Cavaliers’ Eastern Conference finals game at Boston.
James then became the top scorer in regular-season history on February 7, 2023, when he topped Abdul-Jabbar’s record of 38,387 points during the Lakers’ game against Oklahoma City.
James’ prolific scoring is due in large part to his metronomic consistency. With his performance against the Clippers, he has scored at least 10 points in 1,277 consecutive games since January 6, 2007 — by far the longest such streak in NBA history. James’ player of the month award for February
The Lakers and LeBron are clearly revelling in what the Luka trade did for their title hopes
By TIM REYNOLDS AP Basketball Writer
THE game hasn’t gotten easy for the Los Angeles Lakers since the trade deadline. It just looks that way. Consider this moment from Sunday night’s win over the Clippers: Jaxson Hayes got a defensive rebound, handed the ball to Luka Doncic, who took one step forward and fired a 75-foot two-hand chest pass downcourt to LeBron James — who caught it in stride and capped the play with an easy layup. Touchdown, Lakers. And Doncic and James have had a play like that in just about every game lately, or so it would seem.
A month or so has passed since The Trade — Doncic leaving the Dallas Mavericks and joining the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis — and the Lakers suddenly look like title contenders. They are a league-best 16-3 since Jan. 20 and went into Tuesday’s games sitting in the No. 2 spot in the Western Conference, a place that until now they hadn’t been since about the first week of the season.
“It’s been great,” Doncic said. “The atmosphere has been unbelievable, and we just want to give the people
what they want, and that’s winning the games. That’s what we’re doing right now.”
Sunday’s win was the 1,000th in which James has appeared in his regular season career, making him the fourth player to appear in that many victories after Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1,074), Robert Parish (1,013) and Tim Duncan (1,001). And now, another milestone: James was one point away from 50,000 for his career when combining regular-season and postseason games, and that bridge was crossed last night against New Orleans. Only two other players — Abdul-Jabbar and Karl Malone — have scored at least 40,000 points when adding in playoffs.
And technically, James is already over 50,000 but his 99 points from play-in tournament games and the 2023 NBA Cup title game (then just called the in-season tournament) don’t count.
“He’s one of the greatest competitors. … He’s amazing to coach,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said.
“He brings it every single day. He sets the standard for how you’re supposed to approach this craft and to me, that’s the most incredible thing.”
There were other trades before the deadline that
teams are seeing dividends from, including Golden State and Cleveland. The jury’s still out in Dallas because Davis was injured when he got there — then got hurt again in his sensational debut game with the Mavs. And the injury woes for Dallas continued Monday night when Kyrie Irving left with a sprained knee.
Time, and more accurately playoff results, will be the real gauge on all these moves.
But for James and the Lakers, everything is looking as good as can be. The team will host Southern California first responders and affected community members Tuesday as part of the continued response to the wildfires that devastated parts of Los Angeles earlier this winter.
The wins are piling up. The milestones keep coming. They keep rising in the standings.
“I think we could be really good going down the
stretch,” James said at the All-Star Game. He’s been proved right again.
Warriors are rolling after acquiring Butler
After Golden State’s acquisition of Jimmy Butler from Miami the Warriors are still hovering around the play-in line in an absolutely jammed race for spots 6 through 10 in the West. Butler’s mere presence, however seems to have given the Warriors a boost.
He demands defences to respect him, which is excellent news for Stephen Curry — who had a 56-point game last week in Orlando on a night when Butler wasn’t much of an offensive factor.
“There’s still unique skillsets in this league at the superstar level,” Curry said of Butler.
“And he’s a guy that has clearly defined a style that impacts winning at both ends of the floor. You see how much he’s helped us so far. … He’s succeeded at the highest level. He’s gone to two finals and he’s motivated more than ever to try to get back there.” Cleveland improved with off-the-radar deal
The Cavaliers made a very savvy move before the trade window closed, adding De’Andre Hunter from Atlanta. The Cavs were good before the trade. They’re even better after. Entering Monday, the Cavs were 8-0 with Hunter in the lineup — winning those eight games by an average of nearly 19 points. One of the few close ones was Sunday, when Cleveland had to dig deep to rally past Portland with Hunter leading the way.
“I didn’t think we were going to win the game. De’Andre really took us from the abyss,” Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson said.
was his 41st, extending his own league record. He also became the oldest player to win the award, surpassing a 37-year-old Karl Malone in November 2000.
LOS Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James grimaces during the national anthem before an NBA basketball game against the Portland Trail Blazers in Portland, Oregon, on February 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Craig Mitchelldyer)
(AP Photo/Petr David Josek)
LOS Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic, right, is congratulated by forward LeBron James after scoring during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Clippers, Sunday, March 2, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J Terrill)
Stephen Curry scores 28, ‘Buddy’ helps out with 15 as Warriors beat Knicks 114-102
By BRIAN MAHONEY
AP Basketball Writer
NEW YORK (AP) —
Stephen Curry had 28 points and nine assists while running his personal record to 12-1 at Madison Square Garden, and the Golden State Warriors beat the New York Knicks 114-102 on Tuesday night.
Jimmy Butler and Brandin Podziemski added 19 points apiece for the Warriors, who improved to 3-1 on their five-game trip. It
feels like home for them on the Knicks’ floor, where they have won 12 of the last 14 times.
Chavano “Buddy” Hield contributed 15 points, six rebounds and a block.
Draymond Green finished with eight points, nine rebounds and eight assists on his 35th birthday.
OG Anunoby scored 29 points and Jalen Brunson had 25 for the Knicks, who had their three-game winning streak snapped. They played without All-Star
centre Karl-Anthony Towns, who was out for personal reasons. Coach Tom Thibodeau said before the game he didn’t know if Towns would be with the team when it left for a five-game trip that starts Thursday against the Lakers.
Takeaways Warriors: Playing for the second straight night after winning in Charlotte on Monday, Curry didn’t seem bothered by the right ankle soreness he experienced in
Longhorns before he was selected by the New York Knicks in the first round of the 2021 NBA draft with the 19th pick overall. He ended up in Charlotte where he played for the Hornets from 2021-2023 and then with the Clippers from 2024-2025 before he was released over the weekend, only to be acquired by Dallas on Monday.
When he met with Kidd and the coaching staff, Jones said they gave him some basic instruction that he was able to capitalise on, based on his experience playing with the other teams. “I’m the type of player that can fit in somewhere quickly, especially with my play style,” he said.
“I just want to rebound a little bit better and block some more shots and help us win the game.”
One of the easiest ways of him fitting into the line-up on Monday was communicating with his team-mates.
“I just like to let my team-mates know that
they’re not there by themselves,” he stated. “I just wanted to put a lot of pressure on the basketball and talking things out with the rotations as we double team in the post and letting my team-mates know where the screen is coming from so they can angle their body and put themselves in the right position so that we can get the stop.
“So communication is everything on the defensive end and the offence.”
He noted that he was particularly pleased to be back in Texas.
“You definitely could feel that Texas energy around him,” he pointed out. “So that was really nice.”
In his short sting with the Clippers, Jones said he learned how to prepare himself for the coverage in the middle and it showed in his first game with the Mavericks.
Naji Marshall, who accepted the help from Jones, said the Bahamian centre made an impact immediately, something
that game and played 33 minutes.
Knicks: Without the ability to get inside offense from Towns, the Knicks couldn’t overcome their 8-for-33 shooting (24%) from 3-point range. Mitchell Robinson started at center in just his third game this season after returning from ankle surgery but played only 15 minutes .
Key moment Curry and Brunson reentered the game with Golden State leading by
one with 6:33 remaining. The Warriors ran off an 11-0 spurt, holding the Knicks scoreless for four minutes, to make it 105-93 with 2:39 to play.
Key stat Curry scored 20 in the second half and Butler had 13.
Up next The Warriors remain in New York to visit Brooklyn on Thursday. The Knicks start their five-game trip that night in Los Angeles.
they needed, especially with the injury to Irving.
“He played big for us,” Marshall said. “We all knew he could do that. We know the player he is. Shoot out to him. That’s how you go out there and do your thing. Hopefully he can build on that and just keep going.”
Jones, who joined the line-up with Bahamian descent Klay Thompson, said it was unfortunate that Irving went down with the injury, especially because he was looking forward to the pick-and-roll that they could have connected on during the game.
“I hope he heals up quickly,” Jones said.
With all of the injuries on the Mavericks’ team heeding into the final stretch of the regular season before Dallas makes a decision on their final roster going into the postseason, Jones said he wants to take it “one game at a time and make the “most out of every moment.
“I’m just going to continue to do that and stay
positive and be grateful every day.”
As for his future in the NBA, Jones said he’s confident that he has all the tools to become a great NBA player.
“I can do all different coverages, I can blitz, I can switch, I can drop, I can block shots, I’m really active on defence, although like I said, I could have blocked a few more shots tonight (Monday). I’m versatile and efficient. I know my strengths and I’m good at getting at them.”
As long as he can get his “screening right,” Jones said he believes he has the total package to be a great NBA player. He just has to take it one day at a time.
The Mavericks, who made their last trip to the NBA final in 2024 when they lost to the Boston Celtics, are currently in 10th place in the Western division at 32-30. They are back in action tonight when they play the Milwaukee Bucks at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee.
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Year preseason watch list.
Additionally, he joined the company of former Baylor Bears Ja’Kobe Walker, Flagler, Keyonte George and Teague who have all made the preseason watch lists for the school in the last four seasons.
Edgecombe Jr has lived up to his end of the bargain in 27 games played with the Bears this season. He is averaging 14.6 ppg, 5.4 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.1 steals in 32 minutes per game. He is shooting the ball well, converting 43.6 per cent of his field goals and 35.5 of his threes.
“VJ” is ranked eighth in scoring in the Big 12 Conference with 16.3 ppg and his 14.6 ppg average has him on pace for the fifth best scoring average for a freshman in the programme’s history.
In a smaller sample size, in the last 12 games the athletic guard is averaging 17.2 ppg while shooting 47 per cent from the field, 40 per cent from deep and 80 per cent at the charity stripe.
The preseason Big 12 Freshman of the Year has racked a number of honours during the season including the Jerry West Award Watch List, Naismith Trophy List, Wooden Award Preseason Top-50, Sporting News All-America Third Team, Lute Olson Award Early Season Watch List, Big 12 co-Newcomer of the Week, Jerry West Midseason Top-10 and Jerry West Award Finalist. Edgecombe Jr will look to become just the second player in Baylor history since Johnathan Motley to win a national individual award. Motley won the Karl Malone Power Forward of the Year Award back in 2017.
The winner of the 2025 Jerry West Award will be announced in upcoming weeks.
The Bears returned to action last night against the TCU Horned Frogs.
GOLDEN State Warriors’ Buddy Hield plays during an NBA basketball game Saturday, March 1, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
SACRAMENTO Kings guard Malik Monk (0) works to the basket against Dallas Maverick’ Kai Jones (23) in the first half of an NBA basketball game in Dallas, Monday, March 3, 2025.
DALLAS Mavericks’ Kai Jones, top, takes a pass over Sacramento Kings’ DeMar DeRozan (10) and Jonas Valanciunas, bottom right, in the first half of an NBA basketball game in Dallas, Monday, March 3, 2025. (AP Photos/Tony Gutierrez)
US KIDS GOLF TOURNAMENT
Top junior golfers tee off in US Kids Golf Tournament at Baha Mar
AS a prelude to the Junior National Championships and School Golf Championships next week, some of the top junior golfers participated in the US Kids Golf Tournament at Baha Mar on Sunday.
According to Georgette Rolle-Harris, the participation has grown to an average of 75 players per event this season, thanks to the collective efforts of coaches, parents, players, and volunteers.
While there is still progress to be made, Rolle-Harris said the growth highlights the tournament’s potential.
“Our goal is to reach an average of 100 players per event, with participants in the 9-hole division scoring no more than 20 over par and those in the 18-hole division staying within 40 over par,” she said.
“We are nearing this target and anticipate achieving it by 2026. We appreciate everyone who has contributed to this mission and remain committed to its success.”
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Friday, March 14. The second session is slated for 9am Saturday and the final session at 4:30pm on Saturday. The entry deadline is on March 11, 2025 at 11:59pm. All Hytek Electronic Files only should be forwarded to Kendric Albury at meetmananagement@ bahamasaquatics.com Confirmation emails will be sent on receipt of all entries. Following the meet, Bahamas Aquatics will select its team that will travel to Trinidad & Tobago over the Easter holiday weekend in April. The Bahamas will be going after its seventh straight championship feat. NOBLE PREP ACADEMY TRACK CLASSIC
THE Noble Preparatory Academy is all set to hold its 2025 Track and Field Classic from 9am to 6pm on Saturday, March 15 at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium.
The registration deadline is March 11. Athletes can register at info@npabahamas.com 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 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 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. 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.
SOCCER
BFA YOUTH LEAGUE
THE Bahamas Football Association continued its Youth League over the weekend at the Roscoe Davies Developmental Center with the following results posted: Renegades 4, Future Stars 2: D Archer
scored three goals and C Yehuhdah added another one for the Renegades. C Marcillien and P Orelus scored one each in the loss.
Western Warriors 2, Baha Mar Jr FC 1: N Vital and M Kelly both booted in a goal to lead the winners. T Cartwright had the lone goal for the losers.
United FC 9, Tambearly School 1: C Smith knocked in five goals, MJ Fortuna had three and K Thomas added one more in the win. W Paul scored the lone goal in the loss.
Dynamos 1, Cavalier 1: In a game that ended in a 1-1 draw, E Hamilton scored the lone goal for the Dynamos and L Moxey had the only one for Cavalier. Renegades 1, United FC 1: I Bournas scored one for the Renegades and C Knowles had one as well for United as the game ended in a 1-1 tie.
SOCCER
BFA Men’s League
The Bahamas Football Association Men’s League continued on Sunday at the Roscoe Davies Developmental Center
with the following results posted:Western Warriors Gladiators 1, IM Bears FC 0: D Wigens booted in the lone goal in the game for the Gladiators. Western Warriors Titans 3, Renegades 0: M Bendj, V Benet and Agenor scored a goal each to pace the Titans to victory.
UB Mingoes 3, Cavalier FC 1: S Decius scored a pair of goals and R Green had one for the Mingoes in the win. M Cedny had the lone goal for Cavalier in the loss. Inter-Nassau 2, Dynamos 1: C Wensky and W Isaac both scored a goal to pace the winners. P Wilson had the lone goal in the loss.
Photos by Chappell Whyms Jr
A SWINGING TIME: As a prelude to the Junior National Championships and School Golf Championships next week, some of the top junior golfers participated in the US Kids Golf Tournament at Baha Mar on Sunday.
A tribute to Dwaine ‘Man’ Stevens
IN a tribute to the late Dwaine ‘Man’ Stevens, a former player/coach in the league, the Bahamas Baptist Sports Federation officially started its 2025 Slow-pitch Softball League on Saturday, March 8.
After taking a break, the BBSF will resume its softball season on Saturday at the Charles W Saunders High School, Jean Street.
The first will be played at 11am between the defending champions Jubilee Ministries and New Bethlehem.
Last year’s runners-up Macedonia will take on former champions Golden Gates in the feature contest at 12:30pm.
Rev Daniel Nottage, the executive secretary of the Bahamas Baptist Missionary and Educational Convention, officially declared the season open during the ceremonies dedicated to Stevens, the past president of both the Bahamas Government Departmental Softball Association and the New Providence Softball Association.
Cara Curtis, who took over as the new president of the BGDSA, represented the Bahamas Softball Federation and gave some remarks on behalf of
BAHAMAS BAPTIST SPORTS FEDERATION BEGINS ITS SLOW-PITCH SOFTBALL LEAGUE
president Marvin ‘Togie’ Wood. Remarks also came from Rev. Brent Stubbs, the president of the BBSF. Both Curtis and Stubbs lamented on Stevens’ commitment and dedication and the role he played in the development of softball in the country. They both talked about bringing softball back to the “glory days” at Jean Street where the previously functioned Baptist Sports Council hosted many exciting games over the years.
While a memorial portrait was hung on the fence, the family of the late Stevens were presented with a plaque by the BBSF as well as a signed softball ball to mark the occasion.
Darren Stevens, a former manager in the NPSA, responded on behalf of the Stevens family, thanking the BBSF and the convention for recognising the achievements of their deceased brother.
Only one game was played on opening day and it featured a rematch with
Macedonia nipping Jubilee Ministries 8-7 as Kendrick Rolle drew a lead-off walk and eventually scored the game-winning run in the bottom of the sixth on a one-out bases loaded intentional walk to Norman Bastian.
Bastian finished the game with a solo home run, an RBI sacrifice fly and a single and run scored, Gary Wright was 2-for-3 with two RBI, Alex Gabriel got on twice and scored twice and Nataria Hamilton had a triple and a run scored.
D’Juan Seymour cracked a three-run homer and added a two-run
fly, while Sharod Johnson cracked a solo homer and added an RBI double, scoring another run and Javari Southard went 2-for-4, scoring two runs to lead Jubilee.
Foster Dorsett was the winning pitcher and Sophia Cartwright was tagged with the loss.
Jubilee scored four runs in the third and three in the fifth. Macedonia responded with a run in the first four innings, three in the fifth and clincher in the sixth.
Saturday’s schedule 11am - Jubilee vs New Bethlehem. 12:30pm - Macedonia vs Golden Gates.
sacrifice
BAHAMAS Baptist Sports Federation executives make a presentation to the family of the late Dwaine ‘Man’ Stevens.
REV. Daniel Nottage opening the BBSF softball season.
MACEDONIA Baptist’s softball team.
JUBILEE Ministries’ softball team.
DWAINE STEVENS