By Samuel Peters
The Antigua and Barbuda Basketball Association (ABBA) is set to make history this Sunday with an ambitious initiative that brings 20 international players to compete in the 57-year-old league. What started as a text message proposal 30 days ago has rapidly evolved into a comprehensive program to elevate local basketball to international standards.
Former ABBA player Darius Daniel spearheaded the initiative, recruiting players based on experience, opportunity, and timing. “There’s a lot of talent here on the island from Antigua, and so I figured we can boost this league, give it the respect it deserves worldwide,” he explained.
Among the recruits are Christian Wood, a point guard from Atlanta, Georgia, and Jalen Jordan, a 6’6″ forward from Maryland making his first trip outside the United States. “When you step off the plane and you’re in this air, you feel better every breath,” Jordan said.
ABBA Public Relations Officer Carlena Knight-Humphreys emphasized this isn’t just about bringing foreign talent—it’s equally focused on showcasing local players to international scouts. “It’s not only about bringing in imports, but also getting our guys the exposure as well and getting them contracts overseas,” Knight-Humphreys explained. All games will be live-streamed on the ABBA Facebook page, allowing scouts worldwide to watch both import and local players compete.
The season officially tips off Sunday, February 1st, but the excitement begins this week with showcase games Thursday through Saturday at 7 pm at JSC Sports Complex. Saturday night features special events including a three-point shootout and slam dunk contest, each offering US $200 grand prizes (with an additional $200 donation from DEJ Enterprise for the three-point contest), plus an All-Star game pitting top Americans against top Antiguans.
Division One will feature nine teams after Potters Steelers surprisingly withdrew due to internal issues, creating an active free agent market with notable players like Marlon “Buju” Charles, Cohen Desouza, and Lindsay McDonald now available. The defending champion Flyers are expected in action on opening day. Division Two is growing with four new teams joining the existing eight.
Sunday evening’s draft at Cortsland Hotel brings NBA-style pageantry to Antigua. Team owners have been evaluating player profiles for 30 days and will attend showcase games before making selections. Drafted players will receive their team jerseys and take photographs before contracts are finalized.
The 20 players available for the draft are Christian Wood, Jalen Owens, Cornell Greenwood, Andrew Daigle, Jalen Jordan, Bryce Bright, Davon Fludd, Christian Walker, Malik Moore, Brycen Thomas, Anthony Stewart Jr., Omar Durr, Rolante Knowles, Kymani Powell, Sam Taylor, Jabari Smith, Lorenzo Barbieri, TJ Williams, Andre Burnett.
“We have a no excuse policy,” Darius emphasized, summarizing the ethos driving this ambitious initiative forward. With games streaming live to audiences worldwide, the 2026 season promises to showcase the best of both imported talent and homegrown Antiguan basketball excellence.
