SPORTS
SECTION E
MONDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2025
McENROE SAYS CENTRE WILL GIVE KIDS CHANCE
By BRENT STUBBS
Chief Sports Editor
AMERICAN retired
Hall of Fame tennis player
John McEnroe, one of the sport’s highest acclaimed players, returned to The Bahamas to share some of his knowledge with the local tennis community.
McEnroe, who ended his career with 155 titles, 17 major championships and more than 1,400 wins and a net worth of more than $100m, featured in a free clinic on Saturday at the John McEnroe Tennis Centre at Baha Mar.
The event was hosted by Derron Donaldson, the Director of Racquets at Baha Mar/Sports Management, who indicated that it’s just the beginning of what is to come in the future.
“It’s good to have him here. He’s a legend, an icon, so it’s good for tennis,” said Donaldson, a former president of the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Tennis Association and now the secretary general of the Bahamas Olympic Committee.
“It shows that Baha Mar is a premier destination for tennis and tennis is a
premier and popular sport in The Bahamas. We just need to do more to promote it here in the country.”
Here for the first time at the age of 18, McEnroe said it’s his delight to be back at a first-class facility that bears his name on it and to be able to share his experience with the local community.
“It was an eye-opener then because I came from northern California and it was very hot down here,” he said. “But I’ve had some great experiences here in The Bahamas.
“It’s a fun place to be, especially since I haven’t had the opportunity to play in the Michel Jordan event a few times so I’m glad I have this opportunity with Baha Mar to do this.”
Similar to what he does at his academy in New York where he’s tried to make it as accessible as possible for the less fortunate to participate, McEnroe said he was glad to be a part of a free clinic here.
“I’ve been here a number of times. I was here last year, but I look forward to coming here a handful of times each year,” he insisted. “It’s beautiful.
So it’s nice to be back. I’m looking forward to coming here more often.”
During his tenure as a player, McEnroe also played 12 times on the US Davis Cup team, including a showdown with The Bahamas in the World Qualifying round of the Davis Cup tie that was played in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1993.
He noted that the bond he developed with Bahamian legends Mark Knowles and Roger Smith still exists today, even though they may not interact off the court as they did in the past as players on the court.
“It was more important for them to show that they could play on the world stage,” said McEnroe of the Bahamian talented duo. “I haven’t seen Roger much, but I see Mark fairly often when I’m out there,
“He’s travelling more than I am and he’s coaching, so I think that’s an inspiration. When I come into the (Lynden Pindling International) airport, I see the Bahamian Olympians and so that inspires the next generation.”
- SEE PAGE THREE
By JONATHAN BURROWS Tribune Sports Reporter
jburrows@tribunemedia.net
VALDEZ “VJ” Edgecombe made his NBA debut for the Philadelphia 76ers in two preseason games this past week. The first game was on October 2 against the New York Knicks, held at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, as part of the NBA’s international preseason schedule. The 76ers lost to the Knicks 99-84. In 31 minutes,
VJ makes debut in preseason
Edgecombe tallied 14 points, six rebounds, three assists, and shot 4-13 (1-6 from three) from the field. He also went perfect from the free-throw line, shooting 5-5. Postgame, Edgecombe said that stepping on the NBA court for the first time was a “dream come true.” He also received early comparisons to the likes of Vince Carter, known for his elite jumping abilities and athleticism. to which he replied, “That’s an elite comp. But I’m VJ, man. The comparison is cool.”
76ers’ head coach Nick Nurse praised Edgecombe’s defensive performance for the game.
“I really liked his defence, especially the first half. I thought he was really... causing some havoc, he was getting over screens, he was in passing lanes, he was applying a lot of ball pressure. He is a really good defender, he’s also kind of a good defensive rebounder, and even has a little shot blocking element to his defence as well.”
12-golfer team gets set for Jamaica test
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
THE Bahamas Golf Federation’s 12-member team is gearing up for their participation in the prestigious Caribbean Golf Association (CGA) FourBall Championship. The team will leave town on Wednesday to represent the Bahamas at the tournament that will take place in Montego Bay, Jamaica from October 8–13. They will participate in their first practice on Thursday before the CGA Four-Ball Championship gets underway on Thursday. It is one of the premier events on the regional golf calendar, bringing together the top golfers from across
the Caribbean.
Team manager Gina Gonzalez-Rolle expressed confidence in the players’ preparation and determination.
“We are going into this championship with high hopes and great expectations,” she said. “Jamaica has held the winning streak for the last four years, but our team is focused, hungry, and ready to put The Bahamas back on top. Our goal is nothing less than first place.”
The Bahamas will be participating in six divisions with the following players carrying the Bahamian flag:
Mid-Amateurs (Ramon Baez Romano Trophy)Lynford Miller and Nolan Johnson.
Seniors (Francis Steele Perkins Trophy) - Kelsey
Rolle and Jean Paul Michielsen.
Super Seniors (Higgs and Higgs Cup) - Horace Miller and Broderick Pinder.
Legends (Ashraph Ali Cup) - Huel Riley and Oswald Moore.
Ladies 25+ (Maria Nunes Trophy) - Kyshna Radnetter and Annamae Adderley.
Ladies 45+ (Dessie Henry Trophy) - Nathalee Tynes and Rosena Pratt.
Last year at the Plantation Golf and Country Club in Tobago, Team Bahamas, without any women participating, picked up a second place behind the champions from Jamaica.
Among the players returning from Team Bahamas were Moore, Horace Miller, Lynford Miller and Nolan Johnson.
GSSSA ACTION THE Government Secondary Schools Sports Association will continue its baseball and softball regular season action this week at various sites: Today 4pm Senior boys baseball - Aquinas College at Queen’s College; CW Saunders vs St John’s College at Freedom Farm. St Augustine’s College vs Temple Christian at JBLN. 4pm Junior girls softball - Queen’s College at St Anne’s. Tuesday 4pm Junior boys baseball - St Augustine’s College vs CW Saunders at JBLN. St Anne’s vs Queen’s College at Freedom Farm. 4pm Senior girls softball - CW Saunders at Kingsway Academy. St Augustine’s College at Aquinas College. Nassau Christian Academy at Queen’s College. Wednesday 4pm Senior boys baseball - St Andrew’s at Queen’s College. CW Saunders vs St Augustine’s College st Freedom Farm. St John’s College vs St Anne’s at Baillou Hills. Nassau Christian Academy vs Kingsway Academy at JBLN.
PHILADELPHIA 76ers guard VJ Edgecombe dunks against the New York Knicks during the first half of an NBA preseason basketball game in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Photo: Altaf Qadri/AP
TENNIS
TENNIS legend John McEnroe at the tennis centre named after him at Baha Mar.
Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr
Knowles triumphs in Optimist sailing championship
LONG Island sailor Drake Knowles from the Mack Knowles Sailing Club won the overall trophy at the Fidelity Bahamas Optimist Dinghy National Sailing Championship contested in Montagu Bay this weekend. This is the first time the championship has gone to a sailor from the Mack Knowles Junior Sailing Club out of Long Island.
Sailing in the event were 68 sailors between the ages of seven and 15 including 20 girls from 9 clubs from throughout The Bahamas and one sailor for Lakewood Yacht Club in Texas.
The Optimist Dinghy Sailors is a sailboat in which competitors must not be older than 15 in the year of the event. Competitions are contested by sailors between the ages of seven through 15, both boys and girls, all competing against each other on the same course.
Beginners sail in a green fleet while they are still learning the nuances of sailing. Additional limitations for effective competition arise from the height and weight of an individual similar to boxing and wrestling. Persons over 120 pounds or taller than 5’5” generally move on to sailboats designed for bigger persons.
Conditions on the two
days of competition were dramatically different. Saturday was a day of high winds. While this made for great competition in the Championship fleet, it did create a significant challenge for many of the beginners in the Green Fleet.
In contrast, Sunday was a day of very light winds. Unfortunately, on the Championship fleet they were unable to get a race off. On the Green fleet course, set right off of Montagu Beach there was sufficient wind for 2 races to be run. The two very differing conditions showcased the heavy and light air abilities of the top competitors. Harbour Island Sailing Club took first, second and fifth place (Alex Shephard, Shiloh Marshall and Alexander Barry} Lyford Cay Sailing Club took third place with Simon Escruceria. Hope Town Junior Sailing took fourth place with David Vizamar; and Grand Bahama Sailing Club sailor Halo Bruey was top girl in sixth place overall. In the Championship fleet (for competent racers) the top finishers hailed from across the Islands of The Bahamas. Mack Knowles Junior Sailing Club in Long Island had first and fifth finishers by Drake Knowles and Edward Knowles Jr; Exuma Sailing Club had
second and ninth place finishers by Sonny Ampleman and Naaman Butler, III; Eleuthera Sailing Academy had third and tenth place finishers by Lorenzo Laramore and Shamarr Allen. Fourth place went to top female Madeline McMahan of Texas with the top Bahamian female going to Clara Wallas of Hope Town Junior Sailing. Grand Bahama Sailing Club secured a sixth place finish by Chase Thompson and Seventh and Eight places went to BNSS sailors Nash Cartwright and Christian Wells. Nash is one of the older competitors in the event and effectively outshone the Optimist. He has been sailing the ILCA 4 recently which is a boat more appropriate for his size but decided on one last stab at the Optimist Nationals Title. In contrast, Christian Wells, at nine years old, is the youngest competitor in the 30 strong Championship racing fleet. Event organisers would like to thank sponsors, including principal sponsor Fidelity Bank Bahamas and additional sponsors JS Johnson, Paradise Games, BOSS Bahamas Office & School Supplies, Shoreline, Paradise Games, and product sponsors, Dasani and Powerade.
DRAKE KNOWLES, of the Long Island Sailing Club, in the first race of the Fidelity Bahamas Optimist National Open Sailing Championships on Saturday in the Montagu Bay, Nassau. Knowles would go on to finish first overall on the first day.
Photos: Tim Aylen/Bahamas Photo Agency
CLARA Wallas of the Hope Town Junior Sailing Club at the finish line.
CHRISTIAN Wells of the Bahamas National Sailing School.
FROM left, Chase Thompson of the Grand Bahama Sailing Club, Sonny Ampleman, of the Exuma Sailing Club, and Nash Cartwright, of the Bahamas National Sailing School.
Get set for Island Youth Basketball League tip-off
By JONATHAN BURROWS Tribune Sports Reporter jburrows@tribunemedia.net
A PRESS conference was held at the Kendal GL Issacs gymnasium last week for the announcement of the inaugural season of the Island Youth Basketball League (IYBL) presented by Ballin’ By The Beach and league cofounders and directors Jurelle Mullings and Neville “Manny” Adderly.
The league is described as a modernised revamping of the historic Mini Basketball league, which aims to provide young athletes with a structured, engaging, and developmental basketball experience across all islands of The Bahamas.
“Our motto is clear: they will play, they will grow, and they will thrive,” said league director Jurelle Mullings.
“At the heart of IYBL is PLAY, an acronym that stands for P, practice skills... L, life lessons... A, active fun, joy is at the center of all of our activities... and Y, your growth, each child will definitely grow in skills that they can apply both on and off the court in life. Every session that they participate in blends these four areas,” she added.
Speaking on the importance of leagues like the historic mini basketball was league cofounder and coaching director Neville “Manny” Adderly.
“The camaraderie we built with some of the
reputable persons who officiated the game really set the foundation for good discipline and created a culture and an environment that we thrived in,” said Adderly. The IYBL has teamed up with several major organisations to ensure the correct procedures and practices are instilled. These organisations include the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Culture, the Bahamas Basketball Federation (BBF), the New Providence Basketball
Association (NPBA), the New Providence Women’s Basketball Association (NPWBA), and the New Providence Association of Certified Basketball Officials (NPACBO).
The IYBL is open to boys and girls from K4 through grade eight, divided into five divisions that align with players’ grade levels. The league will operate across three distinct seasons: a fall Jamboree, which begins this October, a Winter League beginning in February 2026, and a Spring
League, which begins in April 2026.
It was noted that the IYBL is seeing rapid growth in participation, with more children signing up each week. As a result, the league is actively calling for more coaches to join the program. All coaches will be required to complete a coaching certification programme provided by the league before leading a team, ensuring consistency in player development and mentorship standards.
“There is one non-negotiable with IYBL: every coach must complete a safeguarding certification before they coach a single game. Protecting our young people comes first. We also provide ongoing training so coaches aren’t just teaching plays, they are mentoring leaders, and our partnership with the BBF means that every player, coach ,and referee is on a pathway of standards,” said Mullings. The league is also welcoming more sponsors to
Tennis legend visits Baha Mar
TENNIS - from page one
McEnroe noted that tennis has been great for him and it has been the same for Knowles and Smith. But now it’s time to inspire the next generation to get to the level that they once enjoyed.
“We played with wood rackets when I grew up. Now they have rackets and strings that can give up 40-50 percent more power,” McEnroe pointed out.
“A lot of the courts were grass so the ball bounced low and we were taught a totally different way. So it;s totally different, but ultimately, it’s still tennis and it’s still on the same size court, so you have to find a way to get the edge, whatever way you can.”
If there’s one advantage for players nowadays, McEnroe admitted, is that the more successful players are much taller and they have more of a weapon in their arms to work with.
While he’s delighted that his name is placed on the facility here, McEnroe said his ultimate goal is for the local players to benefit as they prepare
for the future.
“The facilities here are great,” he said. “There just has to be a partnership like in the case of the Baha Cup. It will make people more aware, but it will provide the money needed to give kids a chance.”
And when he’s not involved in anything tennis, where he’s made a name for himself with his shot-making and volleting skills as well as his confrontational on-court behaviour, McEnroe said he spends some time playing music, more as a hobby.
He’s also been involved in the art business as a collector.
But McEnroe will be the first to admit that tennis will continue to remain his passion and he’s not only giving back in teaching the game, but also commentating for ESPN, CBS, NBC and USA at various Grand Slams and ATP Tournaments around the world.
He has also ventured into the big screen, acting in a number of movies and TV shows, including Players, Arliss, Suddenly Susan, Frasier, Hey Hey It’s Saturday, The Chair, Mr Deeds,
Anger Management, Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock and Jack and Jill.
During his appearance here on Saturday, McEnroe signed a number of autographs on balls, clothing, bags, bottles and tennis rackets, whatever local and visiting house guests provided.
He also conducted free lessons for the future young tennis stars as well as a session for female aspiring players, both locally and internationally, who only play casically.
Through the Baha Mar Cup, Donaldson said it’s their hope that more and more Bahamian young people will get the opportunity to play the sport that has made McEnroe and so many others a household name around the world.
During his visit here, Donaldson said McEnroe will be sharing his expertise on how Baha Mar can make it more accessible for more Bahamians to play the game at a reasonable fee.
“We just have to keep inspiring these young people and keep our sport of tennis alive as much as we could,” Donsldson summed up.
“That is what we intend to do here at Baha
CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES TO GO TO SEVENTH GAME
By JONATHAN BURROWS
Tribune Sports
Reporter
jburrows@tribunemedia.net
BAHAMAS Gov-
ernment Departmental Basketball Association (BGDBA) championship rematch series between the number one seeded Police CrimeStoppers and the number three seeded Nassau Flight Services
Ballers continued this past weekend at the AF Adderly Gymnasium with a twogame headline. Game five of the best-ofseven series was on October 3.
After losing two games in a row, while previously being up two games to begin the series, the CrimeStoppers would win game five 76-62. Kirklyn Farrington would put on an impressive show in the fourth quarter, leading the CrimeStoppers in scoring with 21 points in 37 minutes of play. Dion McPhee would follow Farrington with 14 points.
CrimeStoppers’ head coach Anthony “Cops” Rolle would credit the win to the defensive switch from man-to-man defence to a zone defence. This defence would hold Ballers’ team captain and league-leading scorer Abel Joseph to just nine points on 3-22 (1-11 from three) shooting from the field. Lamont McPhee would lead the Ballers in scoring with 20 points, followed by Deonta Tinker with 10 points in the loss. The second game of the weekend headline was on October 4. Entering a decisive game six, the Ballers would beat the Crimestoppers 79-68, forcing a crucial game
seven. The Ballers would utilise their bench to sustain the lead for most of the game as they scored 20 points off the bench to the CrimeStoppers’ 11. Abel Joseph would return to his normal scoring routine, leading the Ballers with a double-double, scoring 30 points and 14 rebounds. Following Abel would be Deonta Tinker, adding 24 points and eight rebounds.
“Last year, it was a sweep because the team was really young; it was the first time we played together, and we just decided that we were
going to leave everything on the floor, and like we said, we put God first,” said Ballers head coach Ricardo Richardson. The CrimeStoppers struggled to grab key defensive rebounds, allowing the Ballers to take advantage of second-chance opportunities. For the CrimeStoppers, Dion McPhee would lead the team in scoring with 19 points, followed by Adam Johnson with 15 points. Game seven will commence at 8pm on Monday, October 6, at the AF Adderly Gymnasium.
come on board, as one of the league’s goals is to make the IYBL accessible for all children, regardless of background, by ensuring that every facet of participation remains inclusive. The Fall Jamboree officially tips off on October 9 at the Kendal GL Issacs Gymnasium, marking the first official event of the new league. Registration for both players and coaches is currently open, and additional information can be found at ballinbythebeach.com/iybl.
SPORTS NOTES
NOTES - from page one
4pm Junior girls softballQueen’s College at Aquinas College.
Thursday 4pm Junior boys baseball - St Andrew’s vs CW Saunders ast JBLN. St Anne’s vs St Augustine’s College at Freedom Farm.
4pm Senior girls softball - St Andrew’s at CW Saunders. Nassau Christian Academy at Kingsway Academy. Temple Chrstian vs Queen’s College.
VOLLEYBALL
NPVA ACTION
THE New Providence Volleyball Association will continue its regular season this week at the DW Davis Gymnasium with the following games on tap: Tonight’s schedule - 7:30 pm Lady Warhawks vs University of the Bahamas (L). 9 pm Warhawks vs Titans (M). Wednesday’s schedule7:30 pm Panthers vs Aces (L). 9 pm Technicians B vs Intruders (M).
FUN RUN/WALK SAC STUDENT COUNCIL
ST Augustine’s College Student Council will hold a fun run/walk race on Saturday, October 18th. The race will start at 6 am at SAC’s campus off Bernard Road and Prince Charles Drive. The entry fee is $10 per athlete and proceeds will be in aid of the ‘Ster Sister Society’ and the ‘Cancer Society of the Bahamas.’ Chicken souse will also be on sale for $10 each. For more information, persons can log onto to https://forms.gie/ Bk55eTdmh96Xdz8e6
FUNERAL EDDIE FORD
THE funeral service for the latev Eddie Ford, one of the country’s most versatile athletes, will be held on Saturday, October 18th at 11 am at St Mary the Virgin Church on Virginia Street. A memorial service is being planned for Wednesday, October 15th, at 7 pm tentatively scheduled for the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium for the former versatile baseball, softball and basketball player, cricketer and track and field athlete.
A PRESS conference was held to mark the inaugural season of the Island Youth Basketball League.
Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr
JOHN McEnroe poses for a photograph with attendees at the centre at Baha Mar named after him.
Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr
Seconds to go - and Wright makes Sparks fly
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
ALEXIO Wright hit his only shot with just three seconds left on the clock to help the St Thomas More Sparks shock the defending boys champions St Francis/ Joseph Shockers 12-11.
It was the season opener of the Catholic Diocesan Primary Schools’ 2025 basketball tournament that got started on Friday night at Loyola Hall on Gladstone Road.
While the Sparks celebrated their big win over the Shockers, the other boys’ game saw the Xavier’s Giants knock off the St Cecilia’s Strikers 9-4.
It was a double dose of victory for Xavier’s as their Giants’ girls team open defense of their title with a 19-7 rout over St Francis/ Joseph and St Cecilia’s got by St Thomas More 12-8 in the other game played.
Sparks 12, Shockers 11: Leading 11-4 in the fourth quarter, St Francis/Joseph went deep to their bench and brought in their smallest players.
But St Thomas More took advantage of their height with a trapping defense that resulted in three consecutive baskets.
After a timeout to put the Shockers’ starters back in the game, Wright canned his game winning jumper for the Sparks.
“That was a huge shot.
He wanted to shoot al game, but he didn’t get a chance,” said former volleyball player Renaldo Knowles, now a first year coach at Thomas More.
“When he finally got a chance, he finally hit a big shot.”
While Wright had the game winning basket, Brian Bullard and Jackson Thornly provided a 1-2 punch that left St Thomas More to their upset victory.
Bullard finished with game high six, Thornly had four and Wright ended up with his two points.
“It wasn’t what was expected, but the boys dug down deep, they fought hard and they came back and Mae some key lay ups down the stretch and we came out with the victory,” Knowles added
“When they made the subs, I told our guys that this was our time to make a run and we got the win. I think this shows us that it’s going to be. good season. I think once the boys have fun, we will be good.”
St Francis/Joseph led 5-2 at the half and was up 6-4 at the end of the third before they were out-scored 8-4 in the fourth as the game slipped away from them.
“In the fourth quarter, we just wanted to get our guys into the rotation and to see well they Ould play,” said St Francis/Joseph coach Erquantae Edgecombe.
“It’s our first game, but we will be back.
“That’s what basketball is all about. It’s unpredictable so this was our first game. Now we know what to do and what not to do moving forward.”
Clorado Mackey scored five and Mason Gardiner, Liam Cleare and Gabriel Deleveaux all chipped in with a pair of points in the loss.
Giants 9, Strikers 4: Brandon Brayden, Rajae Smith, Correen Mathews and Ayden Wallace all scored two Kyle Rolle had one in a losing effort for Xavier’s, who never trailed in the game.
Zion Paul came up with two and both Carter Smith and Carter Cailibily added one apiece for St Cecilia’s.
Giants 19, Shockers 7: J’Lynn Bain was unstoppable as she almost singlehandedly led Xavier’s to their girls’ opening victory.
“We didn’t play the way we were practicing for the past three weeks, but we got the win,” said Xavier’s coach Regail Smith. Bain scored a game high 10 points, including four in their 6-0 run in the first
EDGECOMBE’S TOUGHNESS MAKES AN EARLY IMPRESSION
Nurse also commented on Edgecombe’s toughness and physical tools.
“I was kind of impressed by how he was playing against very experienced, very good players, took on the challenge, I thought he was good with his physicality, and just his quickness.”
The second game was a rematch against the Knicks on October 4. The 76ers would beat the Knicks 113-104. In 25 minutes, Edgecombe would score 10 points, two rebounds, five assists, while shooting 3-9
(1-4 from three) from the field. He also went 5-6 from the free-throw line. Addressing the struggles he faced shooting from the field, Edgecombe mentioned the adjustments he has made to his shooting mechanics. “I was flat. Like, I had a flat shot in college. So now my arc is going better than it was a month ago... now it’s weird for me to shoot it flat.”
Edgecombe returns to the US to play his third preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 10 in Philadelphia.
quarter. D’Antia Rose added five and both Byton McKenzie and Donae Minus had a pair of points to help out.
“It was a lot of pressure playing our first game.” Smith said. “People expect to see some good things. We have four returning players, so with the additions this year, I think we did good for our first game.”
She noted that every team will adapt to play the Giants, so Xavier’s will have to ready for the challenge that lays ahead this season.
Jameah McKenzie scored four, Kassidy Smith had two and Paris Johnson one in a losing effort for St Francis/ Joseph.
Strikers 12, Sparks 8: Catalaya Vargas saved her best for the second half, producing eight in the third quarter in a 10-0 comeback and she had their only two in the fourth to seal the deal for St Cecilia’s.
“We had a little rough first start, but we still managed to pull it together in the second half,” said Austin Taylor, St Cecilia’s assistant to head coach Rochelle Henfield.
“I know we have to work a little more on our defense, but as the season progresses, we hope to get better.”
Ta’Cara Curtis scored the only two other points for the Strikers in the third.
St Thomas More opened a 2-0 lead in the first quarter and held a 6-0 lead at the half, but only managed to score two more points in the second half.
Nathalia Ferguson scored four and both Tanaz Davis and De’Ajanae Strap had two in the loss.
This Friday’s schedule 4pm - Girls/Women - St Thomas More vs St Francis/Joseph (girls), followed by Xavier’s vs St Thomas (girls).
Boys/Men - St Cecilia’s vs St Francis/Joseph, followed by St Thomas More vs Xavier’s.
PHILADELPHIA 76ers guard VJ Edgecombe, left, moves past New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson during the first half of an NBA preseason basketball game in Abu Dhabi, on Sunday.
Photo: Altaf Qadri/AP
ACTION from the game between the Giants and the Strikers.
Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
ABOVE and below, the Giants taking on the Shockers.
A STRIKERS player dribbles past the Giants defence.
Wildcats and Renegades book spots for series
THE Sunshine Auto Wildcats and the Renegades booked their tickets to the New Providence Softball Association ladies and men championship series.
While the Wildcats didn’t have to break a sweat, sweeping the Platinum Pool Sharks by default, the Renegades advanced with a 12-5 victory over the Chances Mighty Mitts.
The two games were scheduled for Saturday night at the Bankers Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex, but only the men’s game was played.
The Wildcats and the Renegades now await the other half of the draw that will complete the
championship series on Tuesday when the Ballers take on the Black Scorpions in the ladies’ match up at 7 pm, followed by the Titans vs Gremlins in the men’s nightcap at 9 pm. Renegades 12, Mighty Mitts 5: Lidma Hanna ripped a grand slam home run in his 1-for-3 plate appearance to lead the Renegades in their victory. Amahi McPhee was 2-for-3 with. double, a run batted in (RBI) and two runs scored; Rashad Martin was a perfect 2-for-2 with. RBI and a run scored and Steffon McKenzie qas 1-for-3 with three runs scored to help out. Jahiemv Davis got the
win on the mound over player/manager Alphonso ‘Chicken’ Albury. Caleb Knowles went 1-for-3 with a double and arun scored; Sky Hanna was 1-for-3 with two runs scored and Jamie Sands was 1-for-2 with a run scored in a losing effort.
The Renegades produced two runs on a pair of hits in the first, blew the game open with seven runs on four hits in the second and added three more runs on a hit in the fifth.
The Mighty Mitts could only respond with a run on a hit in the first, two runs on a hit in the fourth and a pair of runs on as many hits in the fifth in the abbreviated affair.
ACTION from the New Providence Softball Association at Bankers Field on October 4.
Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
Titans rally late to edge Cardinals 22-21
GLENDALE, Arizona
Associated Press
CAM WARD threw for a career-high 265 yards, Joey Slye made a 29-yard field goal as time expired and the Tennessee Titans snapped a ten-game skid with an improbable fourthquarter comeback, beating the mistake-prone Arizona Cardinals 22-21 on Sunday.
The Titans (1-4) trailed 21-6 in the fourth quarter, but took advantage of two massive Cardinals blunders to win the game.
Emari Demercado looked as if he ran for a game-sealing 72-yard touchdown with 12:51 left, but the running back dropped the ball in celebration just before he ran into the end zone. Instead of giving the Cardinals a 28-6 lead, it was ruled a fumble out the back of the end zone, giving the Titans possession at their 20.
Tennessee took advantage of the blunder, driving 80 yards for its first touchdown in eight quarters.
Calvin Ridley caught a pass for 47 yards during the scoring drive, which was capped by Tony Pollard’s 1-yard touchdown run, making it 21-12.
Slye missed the extra point, keeping it at a twopossession game.
Arizona (2-3) made another huge miscue later when Dadrion Taylor-Demerson intercepted Ward’s pass but immediately fumbled. Titans receiver Tyler Lockett fell on the ball in the end zone, cutting the Cardinals lead to 21-19 with 4:51 left.
The Cardinals had a chance to close the game on offense, but couldn’t make it happen. They punted to the Titans with two minutes left and Ward completed a 38-yard pass to Ridley on the game-winning drive, setting up Slye’s field goal. Ridley finished with five catches for 131 yards.
VIKINGS 21, BROWNS 17
Vikings receiver Jordan Addison caught a 12-yard touchdown pass from Carson Wentz with 25 seconds left to give Minnesota a victory over Cleveland at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The ten-play, 80-yard drive gave the Vikings (3-2) a much-needed win on their historic international road trip, which started with a 24-21 loss to the Steelers in Dublin last week. The Vikings improved to 5-0 all time in London.
It also spoiled Dillon Gabriel’s first NFL start, as the Browns rookie put his team (1-4) in position to win by throwing two touchdown passes. Fellow rookie Quinshon Judkins rushed for 110 yards on 23 carries. Wentz shook off a shoulder injury that briefly sent him to the locker room and led two scoring drives in the second half after the Vikings trailed 10-7 at halftime. The veteran finished 25 of 34 for 236 yards and the touchdown pass.
COLTS 40, RAIDERS 6 Jonathan Taylor ran for three touchdowns and a 2-point conversion, and Daniel Jones threw two touchdown passes as Indianapolis routed Las Vegas. The 34-point margin was Indy’s largest since it won 37-3 at Jacksonville in 2013. Jones finished 20 of 29 for 212 yards and moved to 4-1 as a starter this year, surpassing his combined victory total over the past two seasons with the New York Giants. Taylor rushed 17 times for 66 yards and caught three passes for 20 yards — ending a streak of nine straight games with 95 yards or more from scrimmage. The Colts (4-1) took full advantage of the Raiders’ miscues. They converted a blocked punt, two interceptions and a turnover on downs into TDs.
Las Vegas (1-4) lost its fourth straight on another productive day for Ashton Jeanty. The rookie had 14 carries for 67 yards and five receptions for 42 yards. Geno Smith was 25 of 36 for 228 yards with the two picks.
TEXANS 44, RAVENS 10
CJ Stroud threw for 244 yards and four touchdowns, and Houston strolled to a win over a depleted Baltimore team, matching both the most lopsided road win in Texans’ history and the most lopsided home loss in Ravens’ history. Baltimore (1-4) was without two-time MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson, and that was far from its only problem. Defensive standouts Kyle Hamilton, Roquan Smith and Marlon Humphrey all missed the game, and the Ravens already were weakened on that side of the ball because of a neck problem that ended Nnamdi Madubuike’s season. Baltimore was also without All-Pro fullback Patrick
Ricard and tackle Ronnie Stanley.
The Texans (2-3) outgained the Ravens 417-207 and won their second straight game after losing their first three. Houston scored on its first eight possessions before Stroud exited after a 23-for-27 passing day.
Cooper Rush threw for 179 yards and was intercepted three times for Baltimore. The Ravens have lost 10 of their last 12 games when playing without Jackson. Before the season, this probably looked like one of the toughest games on Houston’s schedule. The Texans had lost six straight to the Ravens and failed to score an offensive touchdown in the last three meetings. That drought ended immediately Sunday, when Houston drove 67 yards in 10 plays on the game’s first possession and scored on a 5-yard pass from Stroud to Xavier Hutchinson.
COWBOYS 37, JETS 22
Dak Prescott threw two of his four touchdown passes to Jake Ferguson, Dallas scored on two 90-yard drives in the second quarter with a makeshift offensive line missing four starters and the Cowboys rolled past winless New York.
Javonte Williams ran for 135 yards and a touchdown and also caught a TD pass, George Pickens also had a TD reception and the Cowboys (2-2-1) bounced back from a disappointing 40-40 tie against Green Bay last week.
Prescott finished 18 of 29 for 237 yards behind a line that had left guard Tyler Smith (knee), left tackle Tyler Guyton (concussion), right guard Tyler Booker (ankle) and center Cooper Beebe (foot) all out. Right tackle Terence Steele was the only regular starter playing.
The Cowboys’ victory gave coach Brian Schottenheimer a win over the team for which he was the offensive coordinator from 2006-11. It also kept the Jets (0-5) winless under Aaron Glenn, who’s the first coach in franchise history to begin his tenure with five losses. It’s New York’s fourth 0-5 start and first since starting 0-13 in 2020 under Adam Gase.
Dallas’ defense, which has struggled without Micah Parsons, didn’t let Justin Fields and the Jets do much until the game was
well in hand. The Cowboys had five sacks of Fields, who was 32 of 46 for 283 yards and late touchdown passes to Andrew Beck and Garrett Wilson, along with 2-point conversion tosses to Mason Taylor and Josh Reynolds.
SAINTS 26, GIANTS 14
Spencer Rattler passed for an 87-yard touchdown to Rashid Shaheed, safety Jordan Howden returned a fumble 86 yards for a score, and New Orleans defeated turnover-prone New York for the Saints’ first victory under rookie coach Kellen Moore.
Rattler earned his first victory in 11 career starts, passing for 225 yards without a turnover, while Shaheed finished with four catches for 114 yards for the Saints (1-4).
Giants rookie QB Jaxson Dart, who won his first career start last week, passed for 202 yards and two touchdowns, but also turned the ball over three times, the first when the ball slipped from his hand during a scramble in the third quarter. Defensive end Cameron Jordan recovered as Dart, laying across Jordan’s legs, disgustedly put both hands over his face.
Dart threw his first two career interceptions in the fourth quarter — both caught by Kool-Aid McKinstry for his first-career picks.
New York (1-4) turned the ball over five times in all, none more costly than when running back Cam Skattebo was stripped by defensive tackle Bryan Bresee at the Saints 12-yard line, giving Howden the chance to scoop up the loose ball on the 14 and sprint untouched the other way early in the fourth quarter.
BRONCOS 21, EAGLES 17
Bo Nix threw an 11-yard touchdown pass and J.K. Dobbins rushed for a 2-yard score in the fourth quarter as Denver wiped out a 14-point deficit to hand Philadelphia its first loss of the season.
The Broncos batted down Jalen Hurts’ last-gasp pass on the final play of the game to send the Super Bowl champions to just their second loss in their last 22 games.
The Broncos (3-2) caught a huge break in their rally when the Eagles had a late fourth-down conversion called back on an
illegal shift penalty whistled against running back Saquon Barkley. The Eagles (4-1) were forced to punt and Hurts could not lead one more comeback. His final heave on second-and-10 from the 29 was knocked down as time expired to send the jubilant Broncos into the locker room with an improbable win. Nix waved his arms in celebration toward dozens of Broncos fans in orange that stood near the visitors tunnel.
PANTHERS 27, DOLPHINS 24
Bryce Young threw a goahead, 4-yard touchdown pass to Mitchell Evans with 1:59 remaining, Rico Dowdle ran for 206 yards and a score, and Carolina overcame a 17-point firsthalf deficit to beat Miami.
Young completed 19 of 30 passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns after turning the ball over on Carolina’s first two possessions, leading to two touchdown passes by Tua Tagovailoa and a 17-0 Miami lead.
Making his first start for the Panthers, Dowdle matched the second-highest rushing total in franchise history.
The Panthers (2-3) remained unbeaten at home and equaled a franchise record with their 17-point comeback. Carolina improved to 4-117 (including playoffs) when trailing by 17 or more.
Tagovailoa finished 27 of 36 for 256 yards with TD passes to De’Von Achane, Darren Waller and Jaylen Waddle in Miami’s first game since Tyreek Hill sustained a season-ending knee injury.
BUCCANEERS 38, SEAHAWKS 35
Lavonte David intercepted Sam Darnold with 58 seconds left and Chase McLaughlin kicked a 39-yard field goal as time expired to give Tampa Bay a thrilling win over Seattle. Baker Mayfield tied it for the Bucs (4-1) by throwing an 11-yard touchdown pass to Sterling Shepard with 1:08 left, and the Seahawks (3-2) took over with the chance to drive for the winning score. After a short completion to Cooper Kupp, Darnold was intercepted while throwing off his back foot and toward the middle of the field. His pass deflected off defensive end Logan Hall’s helmet and into David’s hands.
Tampa Bay took over at the Seattle 36, making further heroics by Mayfield unnecessary. Rachaad White ran three times for 15 yards to get the Bucs well within McLaughlin’s range, Mayfield took a knee to run the clock down, and McLaughlin ended it with his third field goal of the day.
COMMANDERS 27, CHARGERS 10
Jacory Croskey-Merritt scored two touchdowns, and Washington rallied from a 10-point deficit after forcing a big fumble in the second quarter to score 27 straight points and beat Los Angeles.
Washington’s Jayden Daniels was 15 of 26 for 231 yards and a touchdown in the game’s final minute in helping the Commanders (3-2) win for the first time on the road after missing two games with an injured left knee.
The Chargers (3-2) were one of the least penalized teams in the first three weeks of the season, when they were 3-0. But they were done in by sloppy play last week, with 15 penalties for 107 yards in a 21-18 loss at the New York Giants. Back home at SoFi Stadium, it happened again. They had 10 penalties for 85 yards and three turnovers in Washington territory.
LIONS 37, BENGALS 24
David Montgomery ran for a touchdown and threw for one on a trick play in his hometown, Jared Goff passed for three scores and the Detroit Lions rolled to their fourth straight win, over the reeling Cincinnati. Montgomery, a sevenyear veteran, had passing and rushing scores in a game for the second time.
The bruising rusher played quarterback at Cincinnati Mt. Healthy High School. Montgomery — who rushed for 64 yards on 18 carries — had more than 20 friends and relatives in attendance, including his older sister Kiki, who was paralyzed in a Feb. 2024 car crash. Montgomery greeted his sister near the Lions’ locker room before he took the field.
Jahmyr Gibbs also scored for the Lions (4-1), marking the 14th time the third-year running back and Montgomery have each had a TD. That tied Dallas’ duo of Emmitt Smith and Daryl Johnston for the most in NFL history.
TENNESSEE Titans wide receiver Tyler Lockett (4) celebrates his touchdown with quarterback Cam Ward, left, and Elic Ayomanor yesterday.
Photo: Ross D Franklin/AP
Haaland scores again - but Rodri gets another injury
By STEVE DOUGLAS
AP Sports Writer
ANOTHER goal for the prolific Erling Haaland another injury for the unfortunate Rodri.
Manchester City beat Brentford 1-0 in the Premier League on Sunday thanks to a competitionleading ninth goal by Haaland, who used power to shrug off one defender and then skill to go round another before slotting home in the ninth minute.
“This, for me, is a proper goal … one of my better goals,” said the Norway striker, who added that he was in the best form of his career after scoring 18 times in 11 games for club and country this season.
Haaland gave a “shoutout” to his son for helping him get in the right mindset.
“To be honest, with a kid, it makes me even better,” said the Norway striker, who became a father for the first time in December, “because I actually disconnect more than ever. I don’t think of football at all.”
A hard-fought victory for City against an opponent whose direct, long-ball tactics caused occasional panic was soured by the sight of Rodri — the team’s key central midfielder and last year Ballon d’Or winner — being forced off midway through the first half with a suspected hamstring injury.
Rodri dropped to the ground, clutched the back of his right leg and looked crestfallen as he walked off the field gingerly. The Spain star missed most of last season with an ACL injury and has complained of knee pain in the first weeks of this campaign.
“He is injured, he felt something, but hopefully it will not be huge,” said City manager Pep Guardiola, who celebrated his 250th win in the Premier League since arriving in English soccer in 2016.
City climbed to fifth place, three points behind leader Arsenal, with a fourth win in seven league games so far.
Unbeaten run over Crystal Palace saw its club-record, 19-match unbeaten run in all competitions come to an
by conceding late in a 2-1 defeat at Everton. Palace last tasted
MANCHESTER City’s Erling Haaland scores during against Brentford yesterday.
Photo: Alastair Grant/AP
MANCHESTER City’s Rodri on the floor, before being taken off injured during the match against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium, Brentford. Photo: Steven Paston/PA via AP
NEWCASTLE United’s Bruno Guimaraes, third left, celebrates with teammates after scoring their side’s first goal of the game against Nottingham Forest at St James’ Park, Newcastle. Photo: Owen Humphreys/PA via AP
Kevaro leads the way to beat Taxmen
FRESHMAN Kevaro Russell led UB Men’s Basketball with 25 points in the 96–50 win over Customs Taxmen in the season opener Thursday at Kendal Isaacs Gym.
Russell added five rebounds and five assists in the win.
“We could’ve executed better on our offence,” Russell said. “On the defensive end, we got a lot of stops and steals that helped us to go up on the offensive end.”
Shameco Albury added 18 points and seven steals in the win over Customs Taxmen.
“We got a lot of stops that led to fast breaks and that helped us to the scrappy win tonight,” Albury said. “I’m happy with the win because we were reacting to the ball and getting in the passing lanes to lead to points and the win.”
The Mingoes jumped out to a quick double digit led by Russell and Higgs with each contributing six points as they went up
15-3 and end the first quarter up 24-8. The Mingoes never trailed in the contest that opened The Mingoes season that saw eight newcomers on the team.
The game is the season opener for The Mingoes showcase season that includes play in New Providence, Grand Bahama and internationally.
Jerehemiah Miller contributed 13 points combined with ten rebounds in the win. Terrance Higgs added 12 for The Mingoes in the win. Alex Minus pulled down 12 rebounds to go along with ten points.
Lorenz Carter contributed ten points, along with three steals and three assists. Jarius Hall also put up ten points, five steals, and five assists.
Zyle Smith scored 26 points for the Taxmen in the loss. The Mingoes next play Crimestoppers 7pm on October 16 at The Kendal Isaacs Gym.
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas guard Kevaro Russell brings the ball up court against the Customs Taxmen on Thursday at The Kendal Issacs Gym. The Mingoes won 96-50. Photos: UB Athletics
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas forward Terrance Higgs goes up for a dunk against the Customs Taxmen.
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas forward Alex Minus drives to the basket against Customs Taxmen guard Zyle Smith.
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas guard Jarius Hall.