Battle on at JaBA elections

Robert Bailey, Gleaner Writer

An intriguing showdown is expected today when the incumbent Ajani Williams faces Captain Clifford Lumsden for the post of president of the Jamaica Basketball Association (JaBA) at its annual general meeting, which will be held at the Almond Tree Restaurant, Main Street, Ocho Rios starting at 9 a.m.

Williams, who has assembled a strong team for today's elections has welcomed the challenge of Lumsden.

"I think that this is good for basketball and I wish we had about four other people challenging me," Williams told The Sunday Gleaner in a recent interview.

"I think the fact that we have two people running is good because going uncontested would not be a good thing," he added.

Second bid

Lumsden, who was the JaBA's first vice-president to the Marland Nattie administration four years ago, was defeated by Williams 16-8 in the last election in 2009. However, Lumsden believes he has a better chance this time around and is very upbeat ahead of today's polls.

"We are extremely confident," said Lumsden. "I have been on the ground talking to the people and they have been talking to me and this is why I am so confident."

Lumsden added: "I have also made significant progress in terms of support in the current administration and I believe that it will help me to get to where we want to go."

Nattie, who has been drafted by Williams, is slated to face current office holder Winston Harvey for the post of general secretary. National female basketball player, Oberon Pitterson, of Williams' camp will challenge Richard Rowe for the post of first vice-president. Incumbent treasurer Rueben Brown from Lumsden's slate will be challenged by Vaughn Cunningham.