NBA Draft Day: ‘I had no clue what was going on’
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor
Although they entertained him in Philadelphia before the National Basketball Association’s 2025 Draft, Bimini native Valdez “VJ” Edgecombe Jr said he didn’t know the 76ers were selecting him with the third pick until about 15 seconds before the announcement was made.
“I had no clue what was going on,” said Edgecombe Jr as he sat on Wednesday night surrounded by his family and friends. He waited with anticipation as NBA Commissioner Adam Silver called his name as the pick by the 76ers. “I was just living in the moment until about 15 seconds before they told
me I was going there. So they didn’t tell me anything, It was still up in the air about what was going on.”
The 19-year-old, 6-foot, 5-inch guard came out of Baylor University after completing his freshman year as a member of the Bears men’s basketball team where he averaged 15 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game.
“It’s surreal. I worked hard and everything has paid off,” said Edgecombe Jr as he spoke to the media in his post-draft interview.
“The work doesn’t stop.
“I’m definitely looking forward to going to Philly, making the team, getting ready for Summer League, training camp, all of that. So I’m focused on playing now.”
Edgecombe Jr, who reminded people of how he grew up playing basketball on concrete floors and was living in a home powered by a generator, said coming from an island that was seven miles long where “everybody knew everybody,” just to make it off the rock meant the world to him.
“It means the world to me and I know it means the world to the island and definitely to the country,” said Edgecombe Jr, who now joins a field of at least 10 Bahamians and descendants who played in the NBA.
He said he spent some long nights with his mother, Bendra Rolle, providing a generator for them to utilise for seven years while living on Bimini.
“Man, seeing what she had to go through to feed us, man it’s crazy,” an emotional Edgecombe Jr said.
“It’s crazy. It’s crazy. Man I don’t even know. My ma,
my ma is my everything right now.”
In being selected by the 76ers following the top pick by the Dallas Mavericks for Cooper Flagg and the San Antonio Spurs with Dylan Harper at No.2, Edgecombe Jr could earn at least $11.1 million this season, which would definitely change his family’s life.
As for the 76ers, Daryl Morey, the president of Basketball Operations, said
they did their due diligence on scrutinising Edgecombe Jr before they made their final choice.
Morey admitted that the 76ers have a pretty detailed process that enables them to evaluate the players from the high school level and everything they did before college and any involvement with their national team programmes.
“I think we were seriously considering pretty
Stage set for the return of All Caribbean Wrestling Baha Bash II in Bahamas
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
THE stage is set for the return of the All Caribbean Wrestling Baha Bash II in the Bahamas on Saturday at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, featuring Bahamian Kaylia Capri and heavyweight champion “Pope” Elijah Burke.
ACW’s CEO Mark Henry said at a press briefing yesterday at Breezes SuperClubs that they are delighted to be able to bring another edition of the Baha Bash back to The Bahamas. The event is being facilitated by the Ministry of Tourism.
“We have a rich history of pro wrestling in the Caribbean. I talked to a guy named Norman Smiley, who wrestled here in 1994 as Black Magic and he can’t wait to come back,” Henry said.
“There are so many people that now know that we are running in The Bahamas and they want to come here. We just have to get the sponsorships where we can up our money and to pay for people to come here.”
much. Early in the process it was about six and it was down to four and then we were deliberating up until the last days down to who we would pick and as we dug in, we felt like VJ was by far the best choice there,” he said.
In joining a potent backcourt for the 76ers that is led by Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain, Edgecombe Jr said Maxey has already taken him under his wings
as they not only worked out, but they went to dinner and discussed the intricacies of the NBA and, in particular, Philadelphia. He didn’t get a chance to meet centre Joel Embiid or forward Paul George, whom Morey said both were unavailable at the time of Edgecombe Jr’s visit. But Edgecombe Jr said he looks up to the
By Dr Kent L Bazard
“I’d do it again, and again after that.” That was NBA All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton’s powerful statement after suffering a full Achilles tendon rupture during the final game of the 2025 NBA Finals - an injury that abruptly ended his postseason and may cost him the upcoming season. He had been nursing tendinitis in the same Achilles for weeks, pushing through in what he described as the biggest moment of his career. His story is both inspiring and cautionary. It opens up the age-old debate in sports: when is it
&
CAMP Dr Kent Bazard will host Mark Henry, Olympic powerlifter and the world’s strongest man and WWE Hall of Famer in the World’s Strongest Kids Strength & Conditioning Camp. The camp, opened to boys and girls from ages eight to 18 years, is scheduled for 5pm
at the Empire Fitness Center in the Seagrapes Plaza on Prince Charles Drive. Henry will provide tips for speed, conditioning, strength training, stretching, agility drills and technique. Interested persons are urged to email bahabash2. eventbrite.com or call 242-364-2001 for more information.
RETURN of All Caribbean
Baha Bash II on Saturday at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is expected to feature Bahamian Kaylia Capri and heavyweight champion “Pope” Elijah Burke.
“VJ”
York.
Photo/Adam Hunger)
BFA’S FREE BEACH SOCCER SUMMER CAMP FOR BOYS AND GIRLS RETURNS
THE Bahamas Football Association (BFA) is proud to announce the return of its free Beach Soccer Summer Camp, a major community giveback initiative for boys and girls ages eight to 13 years. The camp will run from July 7 to August 1 at the Beach Soccer Stadium located at the foot of the Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge. Sessions will be held Monday to Friday, from 9am to noon, and are completely free to all participants.
With more than 80 children already registered, interest continues to grow as families look forward to a safe and fun summer experience.
SPORTS CALENDAR FROM PAGE E1
WRESTLING
Baha Bash II
All Caribbean Wrestling (ACW) is turning up the heat this summer with a full day of elite opportunities and hard-hitting action on Saturday, June 28.
The festivities begin with a seminar from 11am to 1pm, led by Gabe Sapolsky. Rising talent from across the Caribbean will get firsthand insight from one of the sharpest minds in professional wrestling today. That afternoon, the spotlight shifts to BAHA BASH II at the luxurious Baha Mar resort in Nassau, The Bahamas. Doors open
This camp is part of the BFA’s ongoing efforts to use football as a tool for community development and youth engagement. It also highlights the unique place of beach soccer in the country’s sporting identity. “This is a chance for young players to learn, have fun, and be part of something positive,” said Bruce Swan, technical director of the BFA. “We
at 4pm, and fans can expect an unforgettable blend of wrestling spectacle and Caribbean culture. Featured Matches: WWE ID Match: WWE ID Prospect Gal Barkay vs. Former WWE Superstar JTG. Grudge Match: “The Anti-Hero” Davienne vs. Jayme Jameson. Grudge Match: “The Villain” Marty Scurll vs. Kenny King. ACW Women’s Title Match: “ROH Women’s TV Champ” Red Velvet vs. Kaylia Capri (c). ACW Championship Match: Prince Agballah vs. “Pope” Elijah Burke (c). Also in action: Champion Izaiah Zane is expected to defend his Digital Media title. ACW Tag-Team Champions Da Russell Twins will be in action.
are excited to give back in a way that directly impacts the future of the sport and the lives of our youth.”
Participants will be coached by certified instructors, including players from The Bahamas’ national men’s and women’s beach soccer teams. Both national teams are currently ranked in the top 50 globally, a reflection of the country’s growing reputation on the international stage.
Beach soccer has played a major role in elevating The Bahamas as a host for international tournaments and a rising power in the region. The camp continues this momentum by creating memorable
MILLER’S FUNERAL
THE funeral service for the late Harry Wenzel Miller, a former outstanding softball player, is all set to take place at 11am Saturday, July 5 at St Michael’s Methodist Church on Churchill Avenue.
His interment will follow at the Western Cemetery. Miller, married to Moria Sweeting-Miller, is the father of Theresa MillerTynes, a former outstanding female softball player. His other children are Pamela Miller, Patrice Miller-King, Monique Sweeting-Miller, Jennifer Ferguson-Miller, Ashley Miller-King and Roberto Miller.
SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY CAMP
THE Southern University is all set to host a free
experiences and opening doors for future opportunities in the sport.
Registration closes this Saturday, June 28, 2025.
basketball camp at the Agape Grace Gym from July 7-8.
The camp is designed for boys from grades 7-12. All participating players must bring their own food and drinks. Interested campers are urged to contact coach Stephen Johnson at 1-242-577-1035.
SUMMER FEST
TOURNEY
THE Crusaders/ Warhawks Volleyball Club, in conjunction with the Bahamas Volleyball Federation, is scheduled to host its inaugural Summer Fest Beach Volleyball Tournament from July 10-13 in Rolleville, Exuma.
The tournament, sponsored by Fidelity and Rubis, will feature a men’s 2-on-2 and women’s 3-on-3 format.
TEAM BAHAMAS GETS IN GEAR FOR CONCACAF BOYS’ UNDER-15 CHAMPIONSHIP
THE Bahamas Football Association (BFA) is proud to announce the intensified preparations of the national under-15 boys’ team as they gear up for the prestigious 2025 Concacaf Boys’ Under-15 Championship.
The championship is set for August 2-10 in Willemstad, Curaçao.
Having trained consistently throughout the year under the BFA’s Centre of Excellence U14 and U16 programme, the final phase of preparations begins now with a specialised focus on tactical training and game scenario simulations.
Over the next six weeks, players within the U15 age group will undergo evaluations and match-specific drills as head coach Kevin Davies sharpens the squad ahead of international competition.
Space is limited and parents are encouraged to register early.
Register now at: www. bahamasfa.net/BSSC2025
Cash prizes of $1,000 will be awarded for the winners and $500 for the runners-up in both divisions. Interested teams are urged to call 422-4550 or 801-3131 for more details.
GOLF STRIKERS CHALLENGE
THE Strikers’ Three Club Challenge is slated to be held from July 11-13 at the Bahamas Golf Federation Driving Range at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex with a shotgun start at noon each day.
The 18-holes event will be played in three different divisions with $2,500 in cash prizes for first, second and third-place finishes as well as the closest to the pin finisher. Registration is required. For more information, persons can contact Swanno at 242-376-0811. The registration fee is $150 per person, which includes the green fees for two days, plus food and drinks.
PEACE ON DA
STREET FAMILY NIGHT
PLANS are underway for the staging of the Peace on Da Streets’ Basketball Classics’ Road to 30 years of existence. The event, being organised by the Hope Center under the theme “Shooting hoops instead of guns,” is slated to be held from July 14-19 at the Michael ‘Scooter’ Reid Basketball Center.
The highlight of the event will be the Family Night, scheduled for Sunday, July 20 at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium when the finals in all of the divisions will take place, starting at 3pm. There will also be the Mr Ship It Three-point shootout and the Joe’s Slam Dunk Contest. The night will conclude with the exciting Clergy versus Politicians match-up.
VOLLEYBALL
BBSF
TOURNAMENT THE Bahamas Baptist Sports Federation is slated to hold a meeting 5pm Saturday at its office at the Bahamas Baptist College for all churches interested in participating in its co-ed volleyball tournament. The tournament will take place from July 18-19 at the CI Gibson Gymnasium. The
Davies, who most recently led the senior men’s national team during the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, brings strategic insight and leadership to this crucial youth development stage. “It’s an exciting time for our young players. We’re not just preparing to compete, we’re preparing to represent The Bahamas with pride and maturity on the regional stage,” Davies said. At the end of June, 18 players will be officially selected to represent The Bahamas in League C of the tournament, with alternates named for final preparations. The Bahamas is grouped with Bonaire, Dominica, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and will play group stage matches on August 4, 5, and 6.
registration fee is $200 per team for a roster of 12 players, which includes a mixture of men and women.
BOXING
FUNDRAISER
THE Boxing Federation of the Bahamas is planning to host a souse out as a fundraiser on Saturday, August 2, at the National Boxing Training Center, Blue Hill Sports Complex. The event is scheduled to take place from 9am to 3pm with chicken pig feet and sheep tongue with Johnnycake or rolls on the menu for a donation of $15. Soft drinks, potato, coconut and zucchini breads will also be on sale. This is part of our effort to meet our goal of $60,000, according to federation president Vincent Strachan. “We are seeking your support by purchasing tickets and additional donations of food items, if possible,” Strachan said. The 15 members are expected to participate in The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Championships in St Lucia from August 1-3. The team is expected to depart July 31 and would remain there for a training camp with the St Lucia national boxing team. They would depart for Georgetown, Guyana from August 14-18 for the school boys and girls championship and seniors. They would remain in Guyana for another training camp until August 27. Then will head to St Maarten, for The Battle Of The Islands Championships. The team would return home on September 2.
SPECIAL OLYMPICS SPECIAL Olympics Bahamas is scheduled to hold their annual raffle grill fun day fundraiser on Saturday, August 16 from 11:30am to 6pm at the Stapledon School Grounds on Dolphin Drive. Dinners will include chicken, steak, fish, hot dogs, burgers, pastries and soft drinks. Domino’s, Connect 4 and basketball games will be played during the day. Interested persons are urged to call 426-0233, 477-0304 or 359-3558 for information on ticket purchases.
CAMPERS proudly display their certificates at the end of the Beach Soccer Summer Camp, celebrating their growth, effort and unforgettable memories on the sand.
A CAMPER enjoys a moment of fun and freedom.
YOUNG players showcase their skills during a scrimmage at the BFA’s free beach soccer summer camp.
Bahamians reflect on ‘VJ’
Edgecombe Jr being drafted by the 76ers with 3rd pick
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter
dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
BIMINITES and Bahamians everywhere are celebrating with immense pride as Bahamian Valdez ‘VJ’ Edgecombe Jr made history, becoming that island’s first native to be drafted into the National Basketball Association.
The 19-year-old - selected by the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night - is now among an elite list of Bahamian basketball athletes, such as Mychal Thompson, Buddy Hield, Deandre Ayton and Kai Jones, who were all firstround NBA draft picks.
Celebrations erupted and spilled into the streets following a watch party in Bimini on Wednesday evening.
It was indeed a proud moment for Biminites, especially Charles “Softly” Robins, who became very emotional while watching the announcement unfold on television.
His brother, the late Coach Grafton ‘Sugar’ Robins, was the first to put a basketball in young Edgecombe Jr’s hand, he said, at his summer camps in Bimini.
“We always knew that some time in his life he didn’t make it to college. He was going straight to the NBA,” Robins said.
“I am very proud of him and proud of his mother. She did a fine job as a single mother. It brought tears to my eyes last night, and then I saw where he had my brother’s name in his jacket. That was really touching because you know sometimes people sometimes forget who started them off. And every time he opened his mouth, it was Sugar, Sugar, Sugar, and I thought that was very nice.”
Randalette Rolle, a close relative, was in New York with the family at the time.
“We are very proud of him and we are excited. It was a great experience to witness it, especially
coming from Bimini – God is good,” she said. She described VJ as a humble young man, “always mannerly and pleasant,” growing up in Bimini.
“He would always stop at our house and every time you saw him, he always had a basketball in his hand,” she recalled.
According to a relative, Edgecombe Jr was always at Bayfront Park playing basketball with the local kids.
“It was a lot of celebration going on in Bimini,” Alberto David said.
“I know him and I am proud of him. We are all excited about it right now. I was watching it on my phone and I wished I could have been there with them.”
Robins is confident that VJ will do well in the NBA. The young ball player has great jumping ability and tenacity similar to NBA star Julius “Magic” Erving. Edgecombe Jr has what it takes to be an NBA Hall of Famer.
“I saw him play with the Bahamas national team, and from then, I knew he would be a top player. If he can stay away from injuries, I know he will be a Hall of Famer,” said Robins, a former outstanding basketball player, coach and executive.
“He is a Hall of Famer now in our book in Bimini because he is our first NBA player, not The Bahamas, I am talking about. I am still biased about it.”
Robins noted that he rang Bendra Rolle, Edgecombe Jr’s mother, in New York on Thursday morning to extend his congratulations and well wishes to Edgecombe Jr and his family.
“I called him and I know he will return it. I know today is very busy for him. I am right now watching it again, I can’t stop looking at it – he’s just 19 years old.”
Robins, who now resides in Freeport, returns home to Bimini every year to hold a basketball summer camp in honour of his brother. He believes Edgecombe Jr will
serve as an inspiration for many of the talented young people in Bimini. “One of the good things I think that is going to come out of this is the young boys who feel they have nowhere to go, now they can see, touch, and feel that if one of their own can make it, so can I.”
Norris Bain, deputy director in the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Culture for the northern Bahamas,
said Edgecombe Jr’s journey is one of hard work and dedication.
Edgecombe Jr, a freshman at Baylor, was the number three draft pick overall. He had a great season for the Bears, averaging 15 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game.
Bain, a former outstanding high school basketball coach with the Falcons’
senior boys basketball team at Tabernacle Baptist Academy, said being drafted into the NBA is a huge deal.
“This is a major accomplishment for Bimini and The Bahamas to see another young man from the soil get to the highest level of basketball,” he said.
Bain, an assistant director of sports at the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, said he has been following
the young athlete’s journey for a while.
“I saw VJ play during the first national championship that was sponsored by the Ministry of Education, and then he has been to several of Buddy Hield’s camps, and then I followed him while he was at the Lutheran High School in New York,” he recalled.
“I can imagine it has been quite an experience.
“But, this is really for other young Grand Bahamians, Bahamians and Biminites to be able to see that the opportunities are there.
“We just need to continue to put in the hard work and dedication, and that’s what VJ has done, and I am very happy for him and his mother. But it gives hope to every young boy that is dribbling the basketball that has work and dedication results in great success, and VJ epitomises hardwork. This gives a lot of hope to other young boys and girls that their goals are attainable once they put in the kind of work they need to put in.”
Former veteran men’s national basketball coach Gladstone ‘Moon’ McPhee said the country should be very proud of Edgecombe Jr and the other Bahamian athletes who are doing very well in professional basketball.
“I had the opportunity to meet VJ when he was about 12 or 14 years old. Somebody brought him from Bimini for me to see him, and told me, ‘Coach he is the real thing.’ He is the real thing,” said McPhee, who was coach of the once dominant Catholic High Crusaders senior boys basketball team from Grand Bahama.
“And our country should be very proud that we have athletes who are giving their best and making it, and coming home to make an effort to help those less fortunate. So, we are really proud of him.” VJ Edgecombe’s journey in the NBA has only just begun.
ALL-STAR SURVIVAL JULY 2–6 AT THE ICONIC JBLN FIELD OF DREAMS
A POWERFUL blend of athletic excellence, community advocacy and youth empowerment will be centre stage at The Show: All-Star Survival 2025, taking place July 2–6 at the iconic JBLN Field of Dreams in Nassau, Bahamas. Organised by the BAP softball programme and Ballin’ By Da Beach Ltd., this annual showcase brings together 100 of the nation’s most talented young female softball athletes (U14 and U18 divisions) representing New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco, Eleuthera, Long Island, and Andros. With over
$800,000 in scholarship offers awarded to date and more than 75 recruitment offers extended, The Show is a proven pathway to academic and athletic success. Beyond the competition, The Show dedicates itself to education, community involvement, and advocacy. Eight critical causes impacting Bahamian families will take the spotlight through team representation: Autism Awareness, Sickle Cell Disease, Mental Health Advocacy, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), Lupus Awareness, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Breast Cancer Awareness, and Domestic Violence
Prevention. From Sunday’s inspirational church service at Bahamas Harvest to the dynamic “WomenLead” empowerment session on Thursday evening, athletes will experience more than just softball - they will gain life skills, build sisterhood, and amplify their voices on important issues.
According to BAP CEO Dachye Stubbs” “The Show is designed as a life-changing experience. We’re creating a powerful space where our young women learn to advocate for themselves and their communities, while unlocking opportunities through softball.”
The exciting week includes:
Wednesday, July 2: Athletes unite at the vibrant Meet & Greet and Media Day, building camaraderie and celebrating their selection to The Show.
Thursday, July 3: Athletes sharpen their skills at the elite softball camp and combine, hosted by international and local coaches, followed by “WomenLead,” a transformative session dedicated to personal growth and leadership.
Friday–Sunday (July 4–6): Showcase games, exhilarating all-star challenges, and competitive championship matches
SHANNON JOHNSON SHOWS A STRONG EYE AT THE PLATE, LEADING REAPERS BASEBALL CLUB TO A 13-4 VICTORY
SHANNON Johnson showed a strong eye at the plate on Wednesday, as he walked three times while leading the Reapers Baseball Club to a 13-4 victory over the Community Baseball League All-Stars at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium. The Reapers. won thanks in part to seven runs in the first inning. Roberto Lamour singled, scoring three runs, Etienne Farquharson was struck by a pitch, driving in a run, Sharad Johnson tripled, scoring one run, Shannon Johnson drew a walk, scoring one run, and Jyles
Romer induced Schmal Forbes to hit into a fielder’s choice, but one run scored. The Reapers added one run in the second after the Community Baseball League All-Stars committed an error. The Reapers added to their early lead in the top of the third inning after Schmal Forbes grounded out, and Tate Isaacs singled, each scoring one run. Lyndon Wallace stepped on the hill first for the Reapers. The hurler allowed zero hits and two runs over four innings, striking out five and walking four. Shannon Davis started on the
hill for Community Baseball All-Stars. The pitcher surrendered two hits and seven runs over one-third of an inning, striking out none and walking four. Ivan Rolle appeared in relief for the Reapers. Roberto Lamour led the Reapers with two hits in four at bats. Shannon Johnson paced the Reapers with three walks. Overall, the team had patience at the plate, piling up 11 walks for the game. Shannon Johnson stole two bases. The Reapers stole four bases in the game. Brian Bannister and Jyles Romer each collected one hit for
the Community All-Stars. Brian Bannister led the Community All-Stars with two runs batted in. The outfielder went 1-for-1 on the day. Shannon Davis paced the Community All-Stars with two walks. Overall, the team had patience at the plate, collecting six walks for the game. Brian Bannister and Garrome Hanna each stole multiple bases for the Community All-Stars. The Community All-Stars ran wild on the base paths, collecting seven stolen bases for the game. The Community All-Stars turned one double play in the game.
ignite the weekend. The inclusive game on Sunday, July 6 highlights the event’s commitment to unity and diversity.
Ballin’ By Da Beach Ltd.’s CCO Jurelle Mullings emphasized the broader vision: “Every moment at The Show offers something meaningful. Whether it’s a skill learned on the field, a bond formed in the dugout, or a life lesson shared offfield, our aim is simple yet powerful: prepare these young women for success in sports and life.”
Daily Admission Adults & Kids 12 & over: $12 | Kids under 12: $6
All-Access Pass (Full Event)
Adults: $30 | Kids under 12: $15
Tickets can be purchased at JBLN Field of Dreams on the day of the event. Join us as we celebrate Bahamian talent, community strength and youth empowerment.
Endorsed by the Bahamas Softball Federation (BSF), hosted in partnership with JBLN, and proudly sponsored by JS Johnson Insurance Agents & Brokers, The Show invites the public to experience top-tier softball, engage with meaningful causes, and support the next generation of leaders.
VJ Edgecombe arrives for the first round of the NBA basketball draft, Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/ Adam Hunger)
When is it worth pushing through pain, and when is it time to sit out?
FROM PAGE
E1
worth pushing through pain, and when is it time to sit out?
The Athlete’s Dilemma
This isn’t a new story.
From high school athletes chasing college scholarships to Olympic hopefuls preparing for their moment on the world stage, the pressure to play through pain is as real as it gets.
In The Bahamas, we see this often — athletes playing through knee strains, hamstring pulls, or shoulder tendinitis, especially during marquee events like Nationals, CARIFTA, or World Qualifiers.
Many fear being labelled “soft,” missing out on selection, or losing their spot to the next hungry competitor.
Add to that the emotional fuel of representing country, family, and dreams, and it’s easy to see how the body can become a sacrifice for the moment.
But at what cost?
What the Science Says Pain is your body’s alarm system. Tendinitis, sprains, muscle strains — these injuries don’t typically explode out of nowhere. They start with inflammation, then worsen when ignored.
If the athlete keeps pushing, small injuries can escalate into ruptures, fractures, or even permanent damage.
Research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine shows that athletes who return to play too early after a soft tissue injury face up to 30 per cent higher reinjury risk. And tendon issues like Achilles tendinitis are especially tricky — rest helps but doesn’t solve the root cause.
Load management, strength training, and rehab are critical. In Haliburton’s case, the progression from tendinitis to rupture isn’t rare. It’s textbook.
Yet when adrenaline, championship stakes, and the weight of a nation are on your back, even the most educated athletes make emotionally driven choices. Culture and the Pressure to Push Here in The Bahamas, our athletes are no strangers to this culture. Many train and compete with limited access to regular physio, imaging, or sports medicine support. They rely heavily on grit, community, and the dream of going pro or earning a scholarship.
Unfortunately, this environment can foster a “play through it” mentality.
And while some injuries can be managed with taping, bracing, or therapy, others — like bone stress injuries or tendon degeneration — are clear stop signs, not yield signs. Making the Right Call
So how do we know when it’s okay to push through — and when to pull back?
There are three key questions every athlete should ask: 1. Is the pain sharp, persistent, or worsening during movement?
2. Does the injury affect your performance or technique?
3. Have you been cleared or monitored by a qualified sports medicine professional?
This is also where coaches, parents, and medical teams come in. It’s not just about the athlete’s will — it’s about the ecosystem around them. Coaches must recognise when an athlete is labouring.
Parents must listen when their child says something doesn’t feel right. And medical professionals must
advocate for long-term health over short-term glory.
Final Word
Tyrese Haliburton gave everything he had and more. His courage is admirable, but his story is also a warning.
Playing through pain might win you a game.
But if you’re not careful, it could cost you a season... or a career. As athletes, we must redefine toughness.
Toughness isn’t ignoring pain — it’s respecting it, responding to it, and being smart enough to make
decisions that protect both the body and the dream.
Because, at the end of the day, it’s not about doing it “again and again.” It’s about still being able to do it at all.
sports medicine physician at Empire Sports Medicine, specialises in ensuring athletes reach their peak performance safely. With extensive experience and a passion for sports health, insights and guidance for athletes of all ages - men and women.
INDIANA Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton lays on the court after an injury during the first half of Game 7 of the NBA Finals basketball series against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday, June 22, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Nate Billings)
INDIANA Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) falls to the court with an injury during the first half of Game 7 of the NBA Finals basketball series against the Oklahoma City Thunder Sunday, June 22, 2025, in Oklahoma City.
(AP Photo/Nate Billings)
Moms take centrestage at the
NBA Draft as sons appreciate all the effort they’ve put in
By DOUG FEINBERG AP Basketball Writer
NEW YORK (AP) — It was mother’s day at the NBA draft Wednesday night.
The moms of the NBA draftees took centrestage, receiving hugs and wiping away tears as they heard their offspring’s names called.
Kelly Flagg, whose son Cooper went first to the Dallas Mavericks, was a strong player in her own right. She starred for the University of Maine in the late 1990s. The 199899 team she was on made school history when it won the programme’s first NCAA Tournament game, upsetting Stanford.
Asked what she helped instil in her son, Kelly Flagg said:
“I just hoped that he loved the game as much as we always have, and we’re just thrilled that he did love it and he got to this moment. It’s incredible.”
As far as the last time they played one-on-one, mom said the outcome wasn’t a victory by her son.
“It’s not a loss. It was a timeout in a game. It’s just been an extended timeout,” she said.
Maria Harper also got the first hug from Dylan Harper after being taken at No. 2 by San Antonio.
Appropriate because she coached his first AAU team and was an assistant on his high school team.
She played Division I basketball herself with New Orleans between 1993 and 1996.
NBA
By BRIAN MAHONEY AP Basketball Writer
NEW YORK (AP) —
Johni Broome is like most basketball players, dreaming of being drafted as a kid and then working hard enough to make it possible.
So the fact that it didn’t happen until the second round and a second day wasn’t going to dampen his enthusiasm.
The Auburn All-American was taken by the Philadelphia 76ers with the No. 35 pick last night, five picks into the second round.
“Being here, this is probably the most exciting moment of my life so far,” Broome said.
“As a kid you always want to be drafted, hear your name called, put on
“She means the world to me, coaching me from first grade to senior year,” Dylan Harper said. “For her to see this moment, probably means the world to her. I love my mom and everything I do is definitely for her.”
Maria Harper echoed Kelly Flagg’s sentiments.
“His flat-out love for the game, his determination, his humility and his hard work day in and day out,” she said.
VJ Edgecombe’s mom was wiping at tears when they talked to ESPN.
“Bimini to the world,”
Bendra Rolle said after her son went No. 3 to Philadelphia and capped the family’s journey from The Bahamas to the NBA.
Thomas Sorber’s mom had a much longer journey. Tenneh Sorber held a Liberian flag when she and her son were talking on TV after he was drafted by Oklahoma City. The pair shared a long embrace when his name was called.
“It’s all for you Mama. It’s all for you Mama,” he said.
Tenneh Sorber escaped the Liberian civil war in 1999 when she was 28.
“I’m a mom ... I worked to get him where he is today,” she said.
It wasn’t just the moms of the lottery picks who were ecstatic hearing their sons name called.
Danny Wolf, who went 27th to the Brooklyn Nets, had mother Tina jumping for joy during his interview on ESPN. She buried her face in her hands when he was drafted.
RESUMES
the hat. So kind of going through the moment, I don’t know, it just feels surreal.”
The NBA draft resumed Thursday at Barclays Center in Brooklyn — though in a much smaller portion of it than was used Wednesday for the first round — with a trade and the deals kept coming throughout the second round.
The Phoenix Suns opened it by taking Rasheer Fleming after agreeing to acquire the pick earlier Thursday from the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Wolves still made the No. 31 selection, but Phoenix and Minnesota had worked out the swap a few hours earlier. Fleming became aware of the
names going early in the second round were Broome and Creighton centre Ryan Kalkbrenner, the four-time Big East defensive player of year, who was selected one pick earlier by Charlotte at No. 34. The
COOPER Flagg hugs family members after being selected first overall by the Dallas Mavericks In the first round of the NBA basketball draft Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in New York.
JEREMIAH Fears celebrates with family on Wednesday after being selected seventh by the New Orleans Pelicans in the first round of the NBA basketball draft in New York.
(AP Photos/ Adam Hunger)
KHAMAN Maluach reacts after being selected 10th by the Houston Rockets in the first round of the NBA basketball draft.
Stage set for the return of All Caribbean Wrestling Baha Bash II in The Bahamas
FROM PAGE E1
Having learned from their initial event last year, Brazzle said they are geared to putting on a better and better show with some great matches that people will remember for years to come. “We really look forward to continuing with this next year,” he said.
“But our ultimate goal is to bring the Caribbean version of Wrestling Mania to The Bahamas.”
As one of the feature stars to watch during the show, Burke said he knows he will have his hands full with Prince Agballa, an African descent, but he’s confident that he will keep his streak of holding onto the title that he has held for the past 940 days since he first won it over the past two-and-half years ago.
“I appreciate the opportunity to be here in The Bahamas and be of service to the Bahamian people,” he said. “To come here time
after time and to deliver, I take pride in being on the platform that we have been provided by ACW.
“We have so much talent, but it’s all about making history and we have done that by coming to The Bahamas establishing the All Caribbean Wrestling brand and the growth behind it.”
In his fight against Agbailah, Burke said he’s a different breed.
“He’s younger, he’s stronger, he’s faster, but he has to take all of that and roll it into a big biscuit and then he has to try to figure out the wisdom,” Burke said. “He hasn’t gotten that yet. So it’s going to be wisdom and knowledge against youth and strength and so I think that will be something real exciting for the fans to watch.”
In addition to the Burke versus Agballa match, the fans will also see Bahamian Kaylia Capri take on the ROH Women’s TV champion Red Velvet in another
title fight. Also on the card, two grudge matches will take place. ‘The Anti-Hero’ Davienne will face Jayme Jameson and ‘The Villain’ Marty Scurll will tangle with Kenny King.Champion Izaiah Zane will defend his
Digital Media Title and the ACW Tag-Team Champions Da Russell Twins.
Before the show gets underway, there will be a seminar from 11am to 1pm, led by Gabe Sapolsky. Rising talents from across
ALL CARIBBEAN WRESTLING’S FREE STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING CAMP
THE All Caribbean Wrestling (ACW) is excited to announce a free strength and conditioning camp for boys and girls, ages eight to 18 years, led by the legendary Mark Henry, the World’s Strongest Man.
This empowering event is scheduled for today, starting at 5pm at Empire Fitness Seagrapes Plaza, located on Prince Charles Drive.
This exciting, hands-on event is designed for children and youth to learn essential athletic skills such as speed, strength training, agility, and more. The camp will provide a fun and engaging environment for boys and girls to explore the basics of
strength and conditioning, all under the guidance of Mark Henry, who will share his expertise and motivation as a former WWE Champion and Olympic weightlifter.
The strength and conditioning camp will also be conducted in collaboration with renowned fitness expert, Dr. Kent Bazard, who will be on-site to assist with training techniques and ensure a safe, educational experience for all participants. Whether your child is looking to improve their athletic abilities or simply have fun while learning about fitness, this event is a great opportunity. The camp is completely free of
charge, and all local boys and girls, ages eight to 18, are invited to join in on this special evening with one of the most iconic figures in sports. For tickets or more information, please visit Bahabash2@eventbrite. com or call 242-364-2001.
This event is part of All Caribbean Wrestling’s ongoing mission to give back to the community and inspire the next generation of athletes.
“We look forward to seeing you at this one-of-akind camp hosted by Mark Henry, and we encourage parents to bring their kids for an unforgettable experience,” according to a press release.
the Caribbean will get firsthand insight from one of the sharpest minds in professional wrestling today. And today starting at 5pm at the Seagrapes Plaza, Prince Charles Drive, Henry will conduct a kids’
strength and conditioning clinic for ages eight to 18 years. They will be provided with tips on speed, conditioning, strength training, stretching, agility drills and technique.
ALL Caribbean Wrestling CEO Mark Henry, COO Jeff Brazzle and heavyweight champion Elijah ‘Pope’ Burke at a press conference.
THE RETURN of All Caribbean Wrestling Baha Bash II on Saturday at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar is expected to feature a number of local and international wrestlers.
NBA Draft Day: ‘I had no clue what was going on’
players, especially George, and he can’t wait to get the opportunity to play with all of them in the 76ers organisation.
“I’m just going to go out there and whatever coach needs me to do, I’m gonna do,” said Edgecombe Jr, who admitted that he’s now playing against men who are fighting for their jobs
to maintain their families. “If they require me coming off the bench or starting, or playing alongside Maxey or McCain or playing with both of them, it doesn’t matter. I’m going there to play. Whatever coach (Nick) Nurse needs me to do, I’m going to do.”
Edgecombe Jr follows Chavano “Buddy” Hield, who played in Philadelphia last year with Bahamian
descendant Eric Gordon. But Edgecombe Jr said he’s grateful to Hield, whom he called his “dawg,” even though he’s now playing with the Golden State Warriors.
“He’s here right now actually. He came just to show love. It means a lot. It goes a long way,” said Edgecombe Jr of his relationship with Hield, a native from Grand Bahama.
“He shows that he actually cares about me. He cares about my future.
“He cares about me as a person.
“It’s his old team, but Buddy had nothing but good things to say. He’s a great person, great energy, great personality.”
Last summer in Valencia, Spain, Edgecombe Jr teamed up with Hield, Gordon and Deandra
Ayton, the second Bahamian to be drafted as the No.1 pick in 2018 (with Mychal “Sweet Bells” Thompson as the first with the Portland Trail Blazers in 1978, the first foreign born player to go No.1).
Edgecombe Jr, Hield, Ayton and Gordon represented The Bahamas on the men’s national basketball team, making it to the finals of the qualifying tournament for the Olympic Games.
But The Bahamas fell short of advancing to Paris, France, after losing to Spain in the championship game.
Spain was awarded the only spot out of the region for the Olympics.
With The Bahamas producing so many players who are excelling in other
sports, especially in New York, Edgecombe Jr was asked if he’s met Yankees’ Major League infielder Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm Jr or WNBA centre Jonquel Jones of the Liberty.
“I’ve met everyone else besides those two,” he chuckled, hoping that it won’t be long before their paths cross, especially since it didn’t happen at Barclays Center on Wednesday night. In the meantime, with The Bahamas watching, Edgecombe Jr said just like how he was encouraged by Hield and other Bahamian sporting personalities, he hopes he will inspire the next generation as he does all he can to help motivate the next player to follow in his footsteps.
NBA DRAFT RESUMES WITH TRADES, EARLY SELECTIONS OF ALL-AMERICANS BROOME AND KALKBRENNER
FROM PAGE E5
trade in and a number of other teams moved around as the draft went on.
The Lakers were one of them, agreeing to acquire the rights to Adou Thiero, the 36th pick from Arkansas. They will be required after sending out cash in the deal to stay below the second apron next season.
The league began with the two-night format last year, believing the event was ending too late when all 60 picks, along with approving trades, was being done in one night.
Teams like the new way, with the ability to catch their breathe and evaluate after the first round, but the players’ side don’t like the potential lengthy wait for players who are on the fringe of the first round but then have to wait another night if they tumble into the second.
The draft only goes to No. 59 this time, with the New York Knicks having been penalised their second-round selection for tampering by negotiating with Jalen Brunson
too soon before eventually signing the guard away from Dallas in 2022. The NBA points to the success of players such as Brunson, who became an All-NBA selection in New York, and threetime MVP Nikola Jokic of Denver when touting the types of difference-makers who could come out of the second round.
Maybe Broome could be one of those players. The runner-up to Flagg for The Associated Press men’s college basketball national player of the year award was banged-up late in the season after leading the Tigers to the Final Four and that may have led to some poor testing at the NBA combine.
But Broome has felt he was an NBA player ever since his Morehead State team played against powerhouse Kentucky earlier in his career and he held his own.
He believes he can do the same when he gets to camp with Joel Embiid and the 76ers. “I’m excited for the first day I get in Philly,” Broome said.
VJ Edgecombe poses for a photo with NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being selected third by the Philadelphia 76ers In the first round of the NBA basketball draft, Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in New York.
(AP Photos/Adam Hunger)
VJ EDGECOMBE JR, left, is congratulated by Cedric Coward after being selected third by the Philadelphia 76ers.
VJ Edgecombe walks across the stage after being selected third by the 76ers.
VJ Edgecombe reacts after being selected third by the Philadelphia 76ers.