JC elated with return to top of schoolboy basketball

THE GROUNDS at Jamaica College (JC), on Monday morning, was a scene of great jubilation as the school celebrated its victory over Wolmer’s Boys’ School last Friday to become the ISSA Under-19 Urban Area Basketball champions.

JC defeated Wolmer’s 69-63 in the third and deciding game of the three-match finals at The Mico University College.

JC’s victory was made even more spectacular because they had come back from a 21-point deficit in game two to tie the series and force a deciding game three.

After trailing behind in the series, they staged a remarkable comeback in the second game, overturning a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter. This set the stage for the thrilling decider where JC led from the front, showcasing both their basketball prowess and mental fortitude.

The Duane Cunningham-coached Old Hope Road champions led all the way in what was a closely contested match, with scores of 18-15 at the end of the first quarter; 31-30 at halftime; and 47-45 at the end of the third quarter. They then pulled away in the fourth quarter for the eventual 69-63 win.

Standout player Dakarai Nicholson led the scoring for JC with 23 points, while Captain Xavier Keyes scored 22.

This was the first time in 15 years that the ‘True Blues’ were winning the coveted urban area schoolboy basketball title, and they now turn their sights to the all-island competition.

Coach Cunningham expressed his relief and pride in the team’s performance.

“It’s been over 15 years since JC has won the under-19. It’s not how soon you get to the top, it’s important you get there and get there in your time. It wasn’t easy, but we had a game plan and executed it perfectly. This win is a legacy for JC, a testament to the hard work and dedication of these young athletes,” said Cunningham.

The players echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the importance of listening to their coach and executing the game plan. The journey to the top was challenging but ultimately rewarding.

Keyes praised the brilliance of Cunningham, while the coach hailed his players for their resilience and their parents for their unstinting support. Nicholson voiced the same sentiment, saying: “We had a game plan and an exceptional coach, Coach Cunningham, he knows what he is doing.”

At the celebratory assembly on Monday, Principal Wayne Robinson lauded the parents and hailed the team as exemplars of the JC fighting spirit.

Board Chairman Lance Hylton exhorted the general school body to use the “never say die” spirit of the basketball team as an inspiration in their school and daily lives.

President of the JC Old Boys Association, Kirk Kennedy, who was off the island, also praised the team, coach, and parents for bringing joy and pride to old boys everywhere.