Author: paulflowers@dpmfinancials.com

Week 8 Preview

Week 8 Preview

Born to Rule vs. Inch by Inch — The Battle for the Top of the Jungle

Thursday June 3rd, 2025

The schedule in the Jungle this week is massive — so big, even the headlines feel too small to capture what’s coming. The action starts early — Thursday Night Basketball — and every matchup is a puzzle piece shaping the playoff picture, shifting power rankings, and answering the season’s biggest question:

Is greatness something you’re born with, destined to command? Or is it something you build, inch by inch, forged in struggle, setbacks, and relentless improvement?

Whatever your answer, one thing’s clear: If you’re thinking of unplugging, missing games, taking a cruise, or fumbling your TNC League Pass — this is not that week.

Thursday Night: Thunder Roars or Lightning Fizzles?

We open with the Thunderbolts, a team that started the season roaring like the gods of Olympus — only to be silenced by a stunning three-game skid that dragged them to the brink of the basement. But champions aren’t defined by their falls — it’s how they rise.

And rise they did.

Injuries, internal struggles, and some very public frustrations nearly derailed them. But with Clency “Coop” Lopez finally healthy, Eyan Rene TJ Hall reappearing like magic, Two-Time Finals MVP Victor Evans back in rhythm, and international All-Star Charles “Chuck” Garcia reminding everyone that Belizean roots run deep, the Thunder has started to rumble again. Their emphatic 16-point win in their last outing? Statement made.

But statements fade — legacies last.

Thursday, they face that same opponent — a chance to prove it wasn’t luck. And two days later? The real proving ground:

A showdown with the Cayo Western Ballaz, long considered the best in the Mayan Cup Division, and until recently, ranked number two in the league. But last weekend, that ranking took a hit. In an emotional overtime loss to the Capital City Kings, it wasn’t just skill or precision that decided the outcome — it was raw pride, heart, and the refusal to fall on home soil.

Expect intensity — Arik Nicholas, one of the league’s most consistent forces, fouled out of that matchup, a moment that undoubtedly swung the game. He’ll want redemption — especially after slipping from the top of the MVP ladder. His supporting cast — Dennis Flowers III, Darnell “Shabba” Oden, and Jahiem Ciego, fresh off a 27-point, 5-rebound performance — has been steady, but the Ballaz need more than numbers; they need to close games.

For the Thunder? It’s short rest and long odds. For the Ballaz? Pride, positioning, and a shot at reclaiming the division’s crown. Don’t miss it.

The Battle for the Toucan Cup — Pretty Losses or Ruthless Panthers?

Every time the PG Panthers and Corozal Suns clash, it’s survival mode — playoff hopes on the line, futures decided possession by possession.

Their last weekend battle? A wild ride — both teams boasting 20-point leads on different nights, but only PG finishing the job, snatching two critical home wins with what might’ve been zero full practices under their new-look roster.

Since then, the Panthers have been sending warnings. Back-to-back heartbreakers against the undefeated Sharks proved they can hang with the league’s elite. Yes, those were “pretty” losses — but pretty doesn’t get you into the postseason.

This weekend answers everything: Were the Panthers simply playing up to elite competition? Or have they evolved into true predators, ready to leave claw marks across the standings?

Meanwhile, Corozal Suns, shining at home but struggling on the road, are in dangerous territory. Last week’s thumping in Griga exposed gaps — belief is high, but the lack of roster moves and strategic adjustments has been costly. Fewest changes in the league, aside from the Tiger Sharks. And with playoff hopes slipping, a third divisional loss to PG this weekend could make elimination more math than myth.

The stakes? Sky-high. The margin for error? Zero.

The Crown Jewel — Born to Rule vs. Inch by Inch

At the heart of it all sits the matchup that defines the Jungle’s hierarchy:

The undefeated San Pedro Tiger Sharks (7-0) — the team I crowned as the league’s best from Day 1 — facing the surging Griga Dream Ballers, building themselves inch by inch toward greatness.

The Sharks? Dominance redefined. No foreign shuffling, no panic buys — just pure, calculated excellence:

  • Brian “Beso” White, the league’s rebounding king.
  • Malik Hunt, the league’s most quietly lethal foreign player.
  • Frances Arana, former Finals MVP, current MVP contender — all business, no distractions.
  • Jihad Wright, Finals MVP pedigree, and fresh off a monster 19-point, 7-assist, 7-steal, 10-rebound performance — the ultimate clutch factor.
  • Tyrell “Leggy” Griffith and Keon Rowland, rookies turning heads, both worthy of MVP mentions.
  • The Minister of Buckets, the only late addition, fitting seamlessly into a roster built to rule.

They were born to rule — and so far, they’ve lived up to the title.

But across the court, a different story unfolds — the relentless rise of Griga Dream Ballers. A team reshaped, rebuilt, battle-tested. Their last meeting with the Sharks? An overtime thriller, derailed by the injury of their key foreign player, The Hammer, late in the fourth.

Yet here they stand again — deeper, sharper, dangerous clearly evident after last week:

  • Edgar “Boogie” Mitchell, 18 points, lights out from deep.
  • Daniel “DC” Conorque, 19 points, 6 boards, 5 assists, sniper precision.
  • Raheem Thurton, steady, reliable, dangerous in the clutch.
  • Kirk “Shaba” Smith, national team player addition, 17 points, 7 rebounds — already making waves.
  • Kevon Laurie, the silent threat, delivering night after night.

All while MVP candidate Deshawn Brackett barely scratched the stat sheet last game — yet they still dominated. That’s depth. That’s danger.

Coach Byron “Shackle” Flowers, a man I have immense respect for, has engineered this climb, brick by brick, setback by setback, never blinking.

Now, the ultimate test:

Can growth conquer legacy? Can resilience outshine royalty? Can building inch by inch dethrone those born to rule?

This isn’t just another game — it’s a battle of philosophies:

Is destiny inherited? Or is it earned — constructed from failure, shaped by struggle, and refined through every hard-fought inch?

Friday night, the Jungle decides:

Born to Rule? Or Inch by Inch?

The answer’s coming — and it’s going to echo far beyond the scoreboard.

 

BY: Coach jamel wagner

Power Ranking Week 7

BPBL Power ranking

Week 7

No Room for Pretenders. Week 7 Separates the Talkers from the Threats.

As we enter the final stretch before the roster freeze, the contenders are tightening their grip—and the pretenders are starting to feel the pressure. San Pedro stands alone at 7–0, still undefeated and still unbothered. But the Thunderbolts are surging, the Kings are rising, and the Dream Ballers just reminded the league what they’re capable of when everything clicks.

Meanwhile, PG continues to knock on the door, Corozal keeps scrapping for respect, and the Western Ballaz are searching for answers after a gut-punch loss. Power is shifting fast in the Mayan jungle, and with playoff positioning, pride, and postseason viability on the line, every possession now feels like it could tip the scale.

Week 7 didn’t just deliver fireworks—it revealed cracks, momentum, and rising stars. Let’s dive in.

7. Corozal Cerros Suns (Last week: 7)

The Corozal Cerros Suns continue their developmental trek through a brutal schedule, facing powerhouse after powerhouse. This week, the long trip to Dangriga seemed to take a toll, as the Suns looked flat in what management had labeled a revenge match. They were never truly in the contest, and their top scorer Rudon finished with just 5 points. On a brighter note, young Julian Gomez hit double figures on the road, showing continued growth, while Jamaal Clifton continues to justify his place on the Conference Player of the Year ladder. Brandon Rogers remains a reliable contributor as well. With the undefeated Sharks coming to town this weekend, maybe some home cooking can help Corozal notch that elusive second win and remind everyone they’re still building something special.

6. capital city kings (Last week: 6)⬇️

The Capital City Kings finally righted the ship this weekend and are beginning to show grit and identity. They’re now playing through what is undeniably their best player—MVP candidate Brandon “Puddy” Flowers—who had a breakout 33-point game in their overtime thriller win over in-district rivals, the Cayo Western Ballers. Cayo had won both previous meetings, and Arik Nicholas had boldly called it an “easy win” for the Ballers. Puddy proved otherwise, showing off his mismatch magic—too quick for bigs, too strong for guards.

Nissani Mendez seems to have figured out the defensive adjustments as well, putting up 19 points with a blend of confident threes and relentless drives, including an 11-for-11 stretch from the line. The Kings hit 100+ points for the first time this season, even without enforcer Daniel Estes, who’s expected back mid-month after a hamstring tweak.

Belmopan has the youth, speed, midrange, and power game to match up with most teams. Guard play is improving with Mendez attacking from the perimeter and Brandon’s mid-range pull-up thriving. If they can get more production from the bench, they’ll be a tough out in any three-game playoff series. John Kelly is holding his own in the middle, but he’ll need to step up his scoring to keep pace with the league’s elite bigs he hoped to measure up against.

5. punta gorda panthers (Last week: 5)

The PG Panthers are fighting to prove they belong among the league’s elite—but they keep running into top-tier opponents just as they begin to climb. Back-to-back close games against the undefeated Sharks have earned them respect, but not yet the results to break into the upper echelon of the rankings. The team is developing rapidly, but internal group dynamics still have them in the “storming” phase—unable to finish like the Sharks or Thunderbolts do in clutch moments.

Veterans Marquise Cunningham and Chance Leslie must elevate their output in big games, as their leadership is essential for this young squad. Leslie’s defense remains top-tier, but his sub-5 point scoring average in recent outings won’t cut it against 100-point threats. At just 68.2 points per game, PG is the second-lowest scoring team in the league, relying heavily on defense to stay competitive. Their biggest weakness? A lack of a go-to scorer late in games to match the likes of Arana, Rowland, Evans, or Brackett.

The signing of Gabriel Sorensen was expected to address that gap, but his underwhelming performance has left him on the bench while Coach Alex Carcamo looks for someone to step up. Rumors suggest a solution may be on the horizon, but until then, the Panthers remain just outside the inner circle—dangerous, determined, and knocking on the door of the elite.

4. Cayo Western Ballaz (last week 2) ⬇️

The Western Ballaz gave back their recent gains in a gritty overtime loss to the Capital City Kings. The loss exposed two key shortcomings: a lack of poise in crunch time and the absence of superstar-level execution. Nick Everett, still adjusting to the speed of the league, found himself in early foul trouble—mostly drawn by aggressive guard play—limiting his impact. That’s a trend he’ll need to fix fast with the Thunderbolts looming.

MVP candidate Arik Nicholas struggled in the spotlight, appearing hesitant in the first half. With no true point guard to facilitate, the Ballaz offense remains feast or famine despite boasting high-flyers like Nicholas, Jaheem Ciego, Darnell Oden, and Dennis Flowers III—each of whom has posted a 20+ point game this season. Flowers, top 5 in scoring, is averaging just 2 assists per game and must decide whether he’ll be the team’s primary playmaker or go-to scorer.

The team clearly has the coaching acumen to course-correct, but until they solve their ball movement and distribution issues, especially in road environments, they’ll struggle for consistency. Notably, this marked the third straight game without Kyron “TuT” Molina, whose shooting could help ease the scoring droughts. For Cayo to join the league’s elite, Nicholas must assert himself as a leader and creator—or risk sliding down both the standings and the MVP ladder.

3. Belize city thunderbolts (last week 4) ⬆️

The Thunderbolts have emerged from early season woes to become one of the most feared teams in the league, and it all began with one major move—signing Charles Garcia. Garcia’s presence is undeniable; he’s now top ten in both scoring and rebounds, and his inside-out facilitation has opened the game for MVP candidates Coope Lopez and Victor Evans, who currently sit first and second in both scoring and assists for the league.

Add in 27-rebound leader Matthew Young and two-way force Eyan Rene, and you’ve got a team that nobody wants to meet come playoff time. The Bolts have also added wing defender Luis Sosa and are seeing valuable minutes from U21 Jaguar Cub Michael Caceras and shooting guard spark plug Tyrone Hall, giving them both experience and depth.

This weekend, their identity and chemistry will be tested in a double-header against Belmopan and Western Ballaz. Depending on the outcome, they could rise to the top of the conference or find themselves back in the middle of the pack. With two MVP candidates locked in and a third possibly emerging, the Bolts now have the firepower, depth, and experience to run the table. The Mayan pre-playoff battles begin now.

2. Dangriga dream ballers (Last week 3) ⬆️

The Dream Ballers got just what the doctor ordered with a dominant home showing against the Corozal Cerros Suns. Their 114-point performance tied the league’s highest output this season and addressed many of the concerns that were holding them back. Edgar “Boogie” Mitchell is finding his rhythm, dropping nearly 20 points in three quarters and reconnecting with his long-range shot, hitting four threes in the win. Daniel Conorquie also delivered a much-needed breakout game, snapping a three-game streak of sub-10 scoring to remind everyone of his well-established elite scoring status. His attack was balanced with three-point plays, strong drives, and confident mid-range jumpers that helped power the team’s offensive explosion.

Kirk Smith continues to settle in, contributing 12 first-half points that helped break the game open, and Kevon Laurie remains quietly consistent in his breakout campaign. The only concern is Deshawn Brackett, who is nursing a leg injury and was limited to just 7 points. Brackett was sitting atop the MVP ladder prior to his injury, and this dip in production will almost certainly affect his standing. Meanwhile, Raheem Thurton and Flowers have provided steadily improving contributions off the bench, bringing valuable depth and energy. If Mitchell and Conorquie can regularly produce 15–20 points, and Smith delivers steady inside support alongside Lowrie’s all-around play, Dangriga will be well-positioned to contend with the league’s elite come cup time.?

1. san pedro tiger sharks (last week 1)

The San Pedro Tiger Sharks are simply the class of the league. Steeped in accolades and top-tier performers, they are the driving story of the season. Keon Rowland and Tyrell “Leggy” Griffith have formed a dynamic duo powering the Sharks to an incredible 7-0 run, both leading contenders for the U21 Jaguar Cub race. Veteran sharpshooter Devin “Minister of Buckets” Daly provides invaluable experience and late-game closing ability that no team wants to face. Malik Hunt continues to be a mismatch nightmare in ISO situations, while Brian White—a two-time champion and the league’s leading rebounder—anchors the paint and sparks the transition game that has vaulted Francis Arana into MVP conversations.

Rookie head coach Chengo has now guided the Sharks to three overtime wins and is hitting his stride, trusting his personnel more than his playbook. Despite a recent injury slowing their momentum, San Pedro remains the only undefeated team without having made a single roster move all season—and they’ve yet to play at full strength. With teams now adjusting to the Sharks’ style, the looming question is whether San Pedro will counter with tweaks of their own or ride their well-oiled machine intact into the Jaguar Cup. The whole league is watching. Rico Black is on the clock.

By The GM

How Do the Panades Taste in Peini, Punta Gorda?

BPBL Week 7 Preview

How Do the Panades Taste in Peini, Punta Gorda?

27th June 2025

The Jungle is unforgiving — not just the sweltering heat of Belize, but the unrelenting competition night after night. For five consecutive weeks, at least one matchup has pushed beyond regulation. The margins? Razor-thin. The storylines? Gripping. The stakes? Growing by the second.

Across the country, young men are stepping into the spotlight — homegrown talents, rising through sweat and sacrifice, blending with the Belizean-Americans, 1 Foreigner and naturalized players seasoned by NCAA courts and college arenas. The result? A hard-nosed, fast-paced, physical brand of basketball that feels uniquely Belizean — raw, electric, impossible to turn away from. To those who once questioned whether this league should even exist? Look around. Belize doesn’t just play basketball — Belize breathes it.

But let’s dive into this weekend’s pivotal showdowns.

The buzz begins with Julian Gomez, the 15-year-old sensation from Corozal, whose highlight-reel dunk and statement block set social media ablaze. The Cerros Suns continue to defy expectations with grit, hustle, and heart — their upset over the Thunderbolts proved they’re a threat. If they can maintain composure for a full 40 minutes and cut down the unforced errors, the Suns could rewrite more narratives this season.

Their next test? A doubleheader against the increasingly dangerous Griga Dream Ballers, a team constantly evolving. Just weeks ago, it was Gabriel Taylor making headlines with clutch plays. Now, they’ve bolstered their arsenal with none other than Kirk “Shaba” Smith, national team stalwart and defensive anchor capable of guarding all five positions for a relentless 94 feet.

But it was the steady hands of Raheem Thurton that guided them to victory last game — leading all scorers with 16 points, stepping up precisely when MVP candidate Deshawn Brackett was limited to just 15 minutes of action. Brackett still delivered 12 points in that short stretch — a testament to his firepower — but Griga’s depth, resilience, and strategic additions are reshaping their identity. They might have lost their Boogie man with “The Hammer”  gone, but now they have the personnel to win close games they once let slip away.

Out west, it’s pure pride on the line. The iconic Battle for the West returns as the division-leading Cayo Western Ballaz, ranked #2 overall, face the formidable Capital City Kings on the road. Cayo enters with momentum, but unless the Kings dictate the tempo, dominate inside, and capitalize on turnovers, this could be another feather in the Ballaz’ cap. All eyes are on Nisani ‘Goated’ Mendez, whose near-poster on MVP contender Arik Nicholas last meeting still echoes, and whose 40-point explosion in Belmopan remains etched in local lore. This rematch? Expect intensity.

But the marquee question — the real headline — circles back to Punta Gorda:

How do the Panades taste in Peini?

The San Pedro Tiger Sharks remain untouchable — undefeated at 6-0, the league’s lone perfect squad. With Keon Rowland, Tyrell Griffith, and the strategic brilliance of Coach Kurt “Chengo” Burgess, they’ve built a juggernaut. But their victories? Far from comfortable. Three overtime games. Three escapes. The Sharks have been cornered, caught — yet they slip away every time, leaving opponents hungry for a breakthrough.

Last week, it was the PG Panthers, powered by the dynamic Marquis Cunningham, who nearly served the upset special. They came painfully close — now, fate offers a rematch, this time in the proud, passionate heart of Peini, Punta Gorda.

So, the question remains — will the Panthers finally reel in the Sharks and serve up golden, victorious panades? Or will the community settle once more for refried beans and tortilla — the bitter taste of another near miss, another Shark escape?

This weekend, the court decides.

History’s on the menu. Let’s see how it tastes.

 

by coach Jamel Wagner

Power Ranking Week 6

BPBL Power ranking

Week 6

The Jungle Is No Place for the Faint-Hearted.

Week 6 roared to life with overtime drama, statement wins, and unexpected surges that reshaped the league’s balance of power. The San Pedro Tiger Sharks remain the apex predators—battle-tested and bruising—while the Western Ballaz continue their meteoric rise behind a growing core. PG Panthers have gone from punchline to problem, and the Thunderbolts just added serious muscle with the signing of Charles Garcia.

But don’t let the records fool you—this league is deeper than the standings suggest. Young stars are growing up fast, veterans are digging deep, and the race to the Jaguar Cup is tightening with every possession. As we dive into this week’s rankings, one thing is clear: no game is a gimme, and no team is safe.

7. Corozal Cerros Suns (Last week: 7)

The Corozal Suns entered the season as a developmental squad—newest team in the newest league—with modest expectations. But that narrative shifted quickly, thanks to the emergence of Jamaal Clifton and Brandon Rogers, who have ignited the Corozal Bay and rallied a city behind them. After stunning the mighty Thunderbolts, the Suns have battled in every game since, often falling just short due to fatigue more than anything else.

This weekend, they nearly upset the number two Dream Ballers, falling only on late free throws. While they’re not the youngest team, they’ve got youth worth watching—most notably 15-year-old phenom Julian Gomez, who electrified the crowd with a thunderous in-traffic tomahawk dunk followed by a highlight-reel block on the next play. Veteran Ray Cruz and other seasoned players have stepped into larger roles but are adjusting to 20–30 minute workloads. If this team can improve its conditioning and cohesion, they won’t just play spoiler—they’ll have a say in who wins the Toucan Cup.

6. capital city kings (Last week: 5)⬇️

The Kings just can’t seem to catch a break. Every time they appear to be turning a corner, either a tough schedule or a key injury sets them back. Their 1–5 record doesn’t reflect their potential, as many still believe they boast one of the most talented rosters in the league. However, the absence of big man Daniel Estes in all but two games, combined with the live development curve for their four young stars, has made them a team growing in real time.

American center Keondre Jordan had a tough debut, going up against the league’s top center, Charles Garcia. He can only go up from there, and this weekend’s test—facing Arik, Ciego, and Everett—will be more telling. For the Kings to have a chance, Jordan must produce at least 15 and 8, and Estes needs to be on the floor. His impact goes well beyond the stat sheet.

Young star Nissani Mendez got a taste of what it means to be number one on the scouting report, thanks to the experienced coaching and defensive specialists of the Thunderbolts. He needs to adapt quickly and become a reliable 15-point contributor to keep the Kings in the playoff hunt. Jevon McKenzie has added needed perimeter shooting to relieve pressure on Brandon Flowers, but the team still seems to lack a clear identity. Their top scorer, Mendez, comes off the bench and usually enters the game when the team is already trailing. Until that rhythm is fixed, the Kings’ immense talent may continue to fall short of its potential.

5. punta gorda panthers (Last week: 3) ⬆️

The PG Panthers might be the most intriguing team in the league right now. After losing their season opener by more than 50 points, their transformation has been nothing short of remarkable. Credit to Kyle and Badillo for staying the course through tough times. With a completely revamped roster, PG has unearthed hidden gems others overlooked or discarded. Comberbatch, cut from Griga in Week 1, now starts for PG in Week 6 and owns one of the best plus-minus ratings in the league. At just 17 years old and standing 6’7, his ceiling is sky-high.

Then there’s Lindey Young, a former teen phenom who vanished from the scene but has returned as an energetic sparkplug, posting 19-point games and displaying the hustle and swagger he was once known for. Under the tutelage of Ale Carcamo, he’s just a few adjustments away from BPBL stardom. Sutherland is emerging as a top-tier defender, capable of guarding positions 2 through 5, and the steady leadership of two-time champion Marquise Cunningham has brought clarity and direction to the squad.

They led the Dream Ballers by 20 at halftime and then took the undefeated Sharks to overtime with a shot to win it in the final seconds. The tenacious defense of their guards gave the Sharks fits, and PG may have unearthed a blueprint to beat San Pedro with their relentless 94-foot ball denial on Arana and Rowland. They aren’t coming—they’ve arrived. And this weekend, they have another chance to leap into the league’s upper tier if they can replicate their effort at home against San Pedro. One thing’s for sure: PG is no longer a penciled-in win. They’ve earned the right to be taken seriously as a potential cup contender in the Toucan Conference.

4. belize city thunderbolts (last week 6) ⬆️

The Thunderbolts made the biggest splash of the third window by signing national center Charles “Chuck” Garcia, adding to a roster already stacked with MVP candidate Coope Lopez, two-time league MVP Victor Evans, rebounding machine Matthew Young, and perennial DPOY contender Eyan Rene. Health and depth were their biggest concerns, but with the fast development of Michael Casseres and the arrival of Garcia, the Bolts now look deeper and more dangerous than ever. They’re a nightmare to rebound against, capable of playing both speed ball and bully ball with a high championship IQ to match. Chemistry and health remain the only hurdles. If they overcome both, the team that once lost three straight could become the odds-on favorite to reach—and even win—the Jaguar Cup.

Victor Evans suddenly looks focused—and some even say slimmer—as the league seems to have taken him by surprise early on. But now he’s adjusted. It will be interesting to see if he can make up the stagger and catapult himself back into MVP contention in time.

3. Dangriga dream ballers (Last week 2) ⬇️

The most important thing a team can do is win—and Dangriga keeps doing just that. They’ve managed to find various ways to survive and their record reflects that success. But power rankings aren’t about standings alone. The Dream Ballers are still searching for a true identity. Right now, they are heavily dependent on Deshaun for at least 20 points a night, and since the departure of Hammer, a consistent second scorer has not emerged. The signing of Kirk Smith has addressed the need for interior presence, and while Smith is capable of putting up the occasional 20-point, 10-rebound outing, he generally is not a 20+ per night scorer. A bright spot has been the resurgence of Kevon Lowrie, who is now top ten in rebounding and a physical force on both ends.

However, their Achilles’ heel has been the inconsistent production from the shooting guard spot. Daniel Conorque has struggled mightily, with multiple games shooting under 25% from the field and failing to contribute down the stretch. His struggles have become Griga’s struggles. Until he—or someone else—steps up with a reliable 15 and 7 stat line, Dangriga’s ability to hang with the league’s top-tier teams will remain in question. With one roster move still in play, Griga’s front office will need to find consistent scoring if they want to return to the league’s elite.

2. Cayo western ballers (last week 3) ⬆️

The Western Ballaz may have taken their biggest step forward in their overtime loss to the Sharks. That game marked a turning point, as the team began the process of integrating American big man Nick Everett into both sides of the ball. Darnell Oden’s rise as a legitimate interior scoring threat now complements the athleticism of Arik Nicholas and Jaheem Ciego. The only missing piece is a consistent shooting guard in the starting lineup, with injuries to Joel Montejo and Kyron Molina leaving that spot open for the taking. If fully healthy, the Ballaz might be the most complete team in the league, with depth at every position.

This weekend’s clash in Belmopan against a resurgent Kings squad could be more telling of the Kings’ true ceiling—but it’s also a chance for the Ballaz to show they’re ready to dominate down the stretch. For Arik Nicholas, this isn’t just another regular season game—it’s a position-holding battle on the MVP ladder. With Victor Evans, a two-time MVP candidate, starting to make his own case again, Arik needs to prove he can put this team on his back in the clutch moments—especially the final five minutes of a close contest—if he wants to keep pace with league standouts like Arana, Coope, and Brackett, and hold off Evans’ surge.

1. san pedro tiger sharks (last week 1)

Still reigning supreme, the Sharks continue to dominate the jungle. After a nail-biting overtime victory against PG Panthers, they solidified their status as the apex predators. The dynamic U21 duo of Tyrell “Leggy” Griffith and Keon Rowland is rapidly emerging as one of the top tandems in the league. Their potent inside-outside chemistry is proving difficult for opponents to contain, and with Malik Hunt and Devin Daly providing seasoned inside-outside support, San Pedro is maturing into a complete and battle-tested squad. Remarkably, the Sharks have already won three overtime games this season, a testament to the poise and growth of their young core. All this is happening in the absence of their floor general Jehad Wright, who has only featured in two games during their six-game win streak. If this upward curve continues, the Sharks will be an overwhelming force come cup time—especially when Wright returns to full strength and resumes locking down opposing stars.

Arana continues his MVP assault on the league, becoming one of the only players this season to post individual games of 20+ points, 10+ rebounds, and 15+ assists—though not all in the same outing. His elite versatility adds another dimension to the Sharks’ growing arsenal.

By The GM

Bolts vs Kings Grudge Rematch

Bolts vs Kings Grudge Rematch

Jungle Rewind: Thunderbolts vs. Kings – A Statement Game

20th June 2024, Belize Civic Center, Belize City, Belize.
 

In a highly anticipated grudge rematch, the Belize City Thunderbolts faced off against the Belmopan Capital City Kings, who had previously edged out a victory despite key absences for Belize City—missing Coope and Eyan Rene, with Victor Evans ejected late. This time, the Thunderbolts came at full strength, including national team standout Charles Garcia, who made his much-anticipated BPBL debut. Garcia quickly made his presence felt, finishing with an impressive double-double of 17 points and 14 rebounds, dominating the paint and establishing himself as a key figure in Belize City’s title aspirations.

Q1: Lightning Start The Thunderbolts wasted no time asserting control, jumping out to an early 22–14 lead behind energetic play and relentless offensive rebounding. Victor Evans found his rhythm quickly, splashing a pair of midrange jumpers and finishing the quarter with 8 points. Matthew Young was all over the court, pulling down 4 of his 10 offensive rebounds in the first quarter alone, contributing significantly to second-chance points. Charles Garcia set a strong tone inside with his rebounding, complementing Evans and Young’s aggressive play. Meanwhile, the Kings struggled offensively, converting just 23.1% of their shots as John Kelly worked tirelessly to keep them afloat, ending the period with key defensive rebounds.

Q2: Kings Rally, Thunderbolts Steady In the second quarter, the Kings’ defensive intensity increased significantly, led by Shane Pratt, who contributed 7 points and brought notable hustle. Nisani Mendez and Jayden Lopez applied effective full-court pressure, disrupting the Thunderbolts’ rhythm. However, the Thunderbolts remained composed, primarily due to Glency Lopez’s leadership; Lopez ended with 17 points and 5 assists, many of those crucially scored during this challenging stretch. Garcia continued his solid play, converting key putbacks and controlling the defensive glass. Evans added timely buckets, while Young contributed gritty baskets inside. The Thunderbolts maintained their lead at halftime, 39–34, though the Kings out-rebounded Belize City 18–17 in the quarter, signaling improved execution.

Q3: Thunderbolts Pull Away Belize City emerged from halftime with renewed defensive determination, effectively limiting the Kings’ scoring chances. Evans maintained his hot hand, ultimately leading all scorers with 24 points, including three pivotal three-pointers. Garcia’s consistent rebounding anchored the defense, initiating fast-break opportunities repeatedly. Young (11 points, 12 rebounds) and Alejandro Baptist (6 points, 6 rebounds) solidified the Thunderbolts’ interior dominance. Despite John Kelly’s determined efforts—he finished with 18 points and 13 rebounds—the Kings struggled to find consistent offense. The Thunderbolts decisively won the quarter 27–17, extending their advantage to 66–51.

Q4: Closing Statement The Kings made one final push in the fourth, sparked by Brandon Flowers, who recorded a strong double-double (12 points, 13 rebounds), and Kelly, who continued battling fiercely. However, every Belmopan rally was quickly answered by Belize City’s disciplined execution and clutch scoring from Lopez and Evans. Michael Caseras provided crucial minutes off the bench with 6 points, highlighting the Thunderbolts’ depth advantage. Garcia’s continued presence around the rim effectively thwarted the Kings’ comeback attempts. Belize City comfortably managed the clock and protected their lead, securing the game decisively, 87–71.

Statistical Highlights and Final Analysis:

  • Victor Evans: Led all scorers with 24 points, along with 5 assists and 5 rebounds.
  • Charles Garcia: Dominant debut with 17 points, 14 rebounds, and 3-for-3 at the free-throw line.
  • Matthew Young: Double-double performance with 11 points and 12 rebounds, including a team-high 10 offensive boards.
  • Glency Lopez: Key leadership with 17 points, 7 rebounds, and a game-high 6 assists.
  • John Kelly (Kings): Impressive effort in defeat, recording 18 points, 13 rebounds, and 2 blocks.
  • Brandon Flowers: Effective on both ends, finishing with 12 points and 13 rebounds.

Belize City controlled the boards, winning the rebounding battle 67–51, crucially creating multiple second-chance opportunities. The Thunderbolts also maintained a more efficient shooting night, particularly from beyond the arc and at the free-throw line (57.9% FT), compared to the Kings (64.5% FT but fewer attempts overall). Turnovers significantly impacted the Kings’ offensive flow, with 22 turnovers leading directly to Thunderbolts’ fast-break opportunities.

Nisani’s 2–12 effort showed he needs to make adjustments to counter the increased defensive attention he’s receiving as a prolific scorer now atop scouting reports. However, he should take heart to know that not every opponent will have a defender as effective as Eyan Rene.

American center Keondre Jackson had a tough debut against Charles Garcia, struggling from the field and on the boards. It’ll be interesting to see how he responds next weekend against the formidable towers of Cayo at home.

Final Takeaway: The Thunderbolts issued a clear statement to the BPBL, demonstrating that with a healthy roster and Garcia’s addition, they are formidable contenders, potentially the favorites. For the Kings, the loss presented valuable insights, reinforcing that with minor adjustments and consistent play, they remain a significant postseason threat.

By Paul Flowers Jr

SHARKS OUTLAST PANTHERS IN OVERTIME CLASSIC

Jungle rewind

JUNGLE REWIND: SHARKS OUTLAST PANTHERS IN OVERTIME CLASSIC

Saturday, 22nd June 2025, Belize Civic Center, Belize
 

Inside a packed Belize Civic Center, the air was electric. The San Pedro Tiger Sharks, undefeated at 5-0 and coming off two thrilling overtime wins, were poised to defend their clean sheet record against a fast-developing and improving PG Panthers squad under the guidance of Alex Carcamo. What unfolded was a game that delivered drama, defense, and overtime mayhem between two postseason-hungry teams.

When the final buzzer sounded, the Sharks held firm, 80–75, behind a dominant inside presence and clutch execution from their veterans. With Rico Black steering the ship, the Sharks were cruising toward the number one spot in both the Toucan Conference and the league overall. But the PG Panthers, improving rapidly under Alex Carcamo, weren’t here to admire the view — they were here to spoil the Sharks’ clean sheet. What followed was a test of mettle, momentum, and late-game nerve in a jungle thriller that nearly upended the league hierarchy.

🕐 1st Quarter – PG Strikes First

PG came out sharp, and Marquise Cunningham made sure the tone was clear. He poured in 6 quick points, including a slicing floater and a coast-to-coast layup. The Sharks looked out of rhythm early, with Malik Hunt racking up two offensive fouls in the opening minutes. PG dominated early rebounds and forced San Pedro into 6 turnovers in the first quarter alone.

Still, Keon Rowland showed early spark, getting downhill for tough finishes and cleaning the glass. San Pedro shot just 25% from the field in the first frame while PG capitalized on second chances.

End of Q1: PG 16 – Sharks 12

⚡ 2nd Quarter – Momentum Swings Like a Vine

The Sharks roared back behind the versatile scoring of Tyrell Griffith, who dropped 10 of his 25 points in the quarter. Griffith was a force on both ends — grabbing 4 boards in the frame and converting putbacks efficiently. The Sharks improved their shooting to 46% in the quarter and began winning the battle on the boards.

Devin Daly added a cold-blooded three, part of his 5-point, 2-block, 1-assist stat line. Francis Arana started to find rhythm distributing the ball, notching 4 of his 11 assists in the period.

The Panthers remained composed — Alexander Ariola and Dane Bradley each nailed a three-pointer, and PG converted 5 points off turnovers to keep the game tight. Cunningham continued leading all scorers with 13 by halftime.

Halftime: PG 32 – Sharks 30

💥 3rd Quarter – Sharks Take Control

San Pedro’s third-quarter surge was built on effort and efficiency — and it was sparked by the return of Brian White, who re-entered the game with a visible bandage above his eyebrow after suffering a cut late in the second quarter. The injury momentarily sidelined him, but his gritty comeback became a catalyst for the Sharks’ turnaround. Brian White came alive — crashing the glass for a game-high 14 rebounds and adding 5 points, including 3 clutch second-chance scores. The Sharks dominated the paint with 12 of their 19 points coming inside and outscored PG by 9.

Francis Arana dished 5 assists in the quarter alone, including 3 in transition. The Sharks’ ball movement resulted in 6 assisted field goals, and their defense forced 5 PG turnovers in the frame. Keon Rowland continued his hot streak, adding another 8 points to reach 17 by the end of the third.

San Pedro controlled the pace and the boards — by the end of the quarter, they held a +10 rebounding margin and had scored 13 second-chance points.

End of Q3: Sharks 49 – PG 42

⌛ 4th Quarter – Panthers Rally with Grit

PG dug deep and nearly flipped the script. Kelvin Cumberbatch made his presence felt with 8 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals, including key plays that sparked a late surge. Chance Leslie added 5 of his 7 points in the quarter and hit the clutch free throws that tied it up.

San Pedro began to unravel under the pressure, committing 6 turnovers and going 1-of-5 from deep. PG’s full-court press began to suffocate the Sharks, exposing their vulnerability to high-tempo defensive schemes. Kevin “Fish” Hamilton was relentless, applying on-ball pressure that neutralized both Arana and Rowland at crucial moments. His 3 assists and 2 steals only tell part of the story — his disruptive presence altered the flow of the game. Griffith and Rowland combined for 10 in the quarter to keep the Sharks afloat, but the question lingered: had the Panthers just revealed a blueprint for how to beat the undefeated Sharks?

The end of regulation delivered one of the wildest sequences of the season — a stunning four-point play that erased San Pedro’s 68–64 lead. Marquise Cunningham drilled a contested three-pointer from the left wing while Chance Leslie was fouled off the ball. Leslie stepped to the line and boldly sank the free throw, tying the game at 68 and sending the crowd into a frenzy. Cunningham, who had already scored 22 points by that point, had once again proven his big-moment mettle. PG outscored San Pedro 26–19 in the fourth, sending the game into extra time.

End of Regulation: 68–68

🥔 OVERTIME – Experience Prevails

San Pedro settled in. Tyrell Griffith got things going with a putback and drew a foul to give the Sharks the lead. Brian White once again proved critical, scoring 4 of his 5 points in OT and pulling down two crucial boards. Rowland hit a breakaway layup that capped a 6–2 burst.

Arana, who logged 41 minutes, initially calmed the tempo and delivered key assists to keep PG chasing. But when PG’s defense took the ball out of the hands of both Rowland and Arana, it was Brian White who stepped into the void. Acting as the de facto point guard, White orchestrated a decisive 12–1 run, scoring 4 points and facilitating ball movement with poise. His leadership under pressure, combined with a stifling Sharks defense that held PG to just 2-of-7 shooting in overtime and forced 3 turnovers, ultimately sealed the win.

PG’s late-game fatigue showed — despite Vince Young finishing with 10 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists, and Hamilton keeping up the pressure, the Panthers had no answer for San Pedro’s physicality. A major turning point came when Marquise Cunningham exited the game with 2:47 left in overtime due to a sprained ankle. His absence significantly impacted the Panthers’ offensive rhythm during the final stretch. Without their leading scorer and floor-spacer, PG managed just 1 point the rest of the way, and what could have been a statement road win slipped through their claws.

Final Score: Sharks 80 – Panthers 75

🔽 Top Performers

Player

Team

PTS

REB

AST

STL

BLK

Tyrell Griffith

Sharks

25

8

0

3

0

Francis Arana

Sharks

15

2

11

1

1

Keon Rowland

Sharks

21

6

1

3

2

Marquise Cunningham

Panthers

22

8

0

4

2

Kelvin Cumberbatch

Panthers

8

7

2

3

0

📊 Jungle Stats Recap

  • Rebounds: Sharks 56 (20 offensive) – Panthers 44
  • Turnovers: Panthers 27 – Sharks 31
  • 3P Shooting: Sharks 4/18 (22.2%) – Panthers 3/22 (13.6%)
  • Free Throws: Sharks 8/16 (50%) – Panthers 10/15 (66.7%)

🎤 Final Word

In the jungle, survival comes down to resilience and rebounding — and the Sharks had both. PG made it ugly, gritty, and wild, but San Pedro showed championship DNA in the extra frame.

With the playoffs looming and the standings tightening, this one felt like a postseason preview — and the Sharks sent a message: the Civic is their reef. But don’t sleep on PG. The Panthers are now serving notice to the Toucan Conference: they’ve established themselves as a legitimate contender for the Cup. Under Alex Carcamo’s leadership, they’re one of the league’s most organized teams — committed to running sets, applying structured ball pressure, and developing cohesion. They may still have a card to play before it’s all said and done.

By Paul Flowers Jr

Week 6 Preview

Week 6 Preview

“Noh Watch Mi Get Ennah Trouble—Watch Mi Get Out!”

By Coach Jamel Wagner

This week’s Game of the Week ain’t just about standings—it’s about pride, pressure, and proving your worth when your back is against the wall. All across the BPBL Jungle, every matchup is a divisional showdown, and with roster deadlines looming and the midseason line in sight, teams can no longer bluff. It’s time to show your full hand, because losing more than two divisional games could mean waving goodbye to the playoffs… and hello to Cancun.

Let’s start up north, where the Cerros Suns sent shockwaves across the league with a thunderous upset over the veteran-led Thunderbolts—a game that lit up the night sky so bright, it could probably be seen across the Mexican border. Clifton Jamal, “Chippy” Rudon, and Brandon Rogers showed that if you’re rolling into the North, you better be armed and alert, because they’re defending their turf with fire and pride. But after giving one away to the Panthers on the road last weekend, the Suns now find themselves in a must-defend situation in this double-header.

Their challengers? The rising Griga Dream Ballers, fresh off two big wins—including an overtime classic against the Kings and a tough scrap with the Panthers, where Griga’s drums eventually drowned out the Wakandan roar. And they did that without their full foreign arsenal—no James “The Hammer” Middleton, just grit and heart. But border games can be tricky. Late-night temptations and road fatigue are real. Still, two wins up North could catapult Griga to the top of the power rankings—territory currently being dominated by the undefeated Tiger Sharks, who are circling the waters and ready to strike again this weekend.

That brings us to San Pedro, where the Sharks will put their perfect record on the line against the same Panthers who had an early lead last week… only to watch it slip away. The Panthers are gritty. Marquise Cunningham is a walking 13 and 10. Lindsey Young brings flash, and Chaunce Leslie brings calm and clutch. But their foreign help has to step up—because against the Sharks, one highlight play won’t cut it. You need a full arsenal or risk getting shredded by the league’s most dangerous jaws.

But all of that guess what it is?  …..Just the undercard.

Now to the main event:

Two city teams.
One desperate for revenge.
The other hungry for respect.
Welcome to Kings vs. Thunderbolts.

This game? This one’s personal.

Both teams sit near the bottom of the table, one with only one divisional win the other with absolutely none. But the Kings own something the Thunderbolts don’t: a head-to-head win earlier this season that left the Bolts throwing tantrums and scrambling for answers. That Kings win wasn’t just a fluke—it was a statement. And it came without foreign help and without the gritty presence of Daniel Estes, who’s rumored to be back in the lineup this weekend. Estes is the type of guy who you simply don’t like playing against, he may not fill up the box score, but frustrates you or your best player, and that alone makes him extremely valuable.

More importantly, the Kings now have something else: confidence.

Nissani Mendez is ballin’—just ask Griga about the 40-piece he served them. Jayden Loez is dishing and dashing from the point 10 pts 9 assist last game Shhh! Shane Pratt is doing the dirty work on the boards. And let’s not forget Brandon “Puddy” Flowers, one of the league’s most consistent players—even if the standings are hiding his brilliance and keeping him out the MVP list mentions. Add in a potential rebounding monster like John Kelly, and this Kings squad might just have enough firepower to sweep the Thunderbolts this season.

But that’s going to be easier said than done.

This game has been circled in red on the Thunderbolts’ calendar. Two weeks of rest and revenge on their minds. Expect a full arsenal—Glency “Coope” Lopez, the league’s top scorer pre-injury, should be back. Eyan Rene, TJ Hall, and Charles “Chucky” Garcia—the big man from the national team—are all expected to suit up. With Chucky flying above the rim and stretching the defense with deep range, the Thunderbolts have the size, speed, and scoring to flip the script.

And then there’s the captain: Victor “Vito” Evans. Who will be Poised. Focused. Dangerous. This game because he has seen the videos and he knows what he needs to do. I’m calling it now—he’s dropping a triple-double this weekend.

So here we are.

Two proud teams.
One city.
One game.

Both are in trouble. But like the headline says—“Noh watch mi get ennah trouble… watch mi get out!”
Because come tipoff, this won’t be a game.
It’ll be a battle.
A fight for redemption.
A clash to see who still wants to be called champion in the Mayan Cup.

BY: Coach jamel wagner

BPBL Power Ranking Week 5

BPBL Power ranking

Week 5

Week 5 Power Rankings – Pressure Mounting as Midseason Nears

With All-Star Weekend on the horizon and Week 5 in the books, the BPBL season is heating up. We’re not quite at the halfway mark, but the tone is being set and the contenders are beginning to separate themselves from the pack. This past week brought dramatic roster shifts, historic milestones, and some high-stakes matchups that shook the standings.

Deshawn Brackett became the league’s first centurion, Cayo and San Pedro battled in a game worthy of the Jaguar Cup, and the Thunderbolts responded to a skid with the biggest signing of the season. Meanwhile, teams like PG and Belmopan are showing they’re no longer content to be middle-tier—both have the firepower and ambition to make postseason noise.

As teams brace for the critical stretch ahead, every game now feels like a playoff preview. Let’s see how the rankings stack up heading into Week 6.

7. Corozal Cerros Suns – Toucan

The Corozal Cerros Suns remained inactive this past weekend following their heartbreaking back-to-back losses to the PG Panthers. Despite showing flashes of brilliance in both outings, including a 24-point lead collapse, the Suns continue to struggle with consistency and late-game execution.

While the losses were a tough pill to swallow, the organization is not sitting idle. Talks of roster improvements are well underway, although no official waivers or signings have been announced. Still, the buzz in Corozal suggests confidence is growing that this young squad can make a run in the second half of the season.

Brandon Rogers continues to emerge as a strong and consistent third option alongside Greg “Chippy” Rudon and Jamaal Clifton. This developing trio gives the Suns a promising core to build around. The front office is expected to make moves soon to complement that nucleus.

The Suns now face one of the league’s toughest assignments—a back-to-back series against the red-hot Dangriga Dream Ballers. Griga, coming off consecutive wins, are surging into All-Star Weekend and looking to cement their position as the number two team in the Jungle. For Corozal, this weekend is about redemption, growth, and proving that their stock still holds value in the Toucan Conference.

6. PG Panthers – Toucan Conference

The PG Panthers came into Week 5 riding high after a momentum-building back-to-back win over the Cerros Suns. Sitting second in the Toucan Conference standings, just above the Dangriga Dream Ballers, the Panthers had their eyes set on a statement win to prove they belonged with the league’s elite.

For a moment, it looked like that statement was about to be delivered. PG jumped out to a commanding 20-point lead over Griga at home and had the crowd believing an upset was in the making. But that belief unraveled quickly. A sudden internal collapse in intensity and defensive discipline led to a massive 40-point swing. By the end of the third quarter, Griga had turned the tide and established a dominant double-digit lead of their own.

Still, the Panthers showed enough to suggest they’re building something legitimate. Their commitment to structured offensive sets and organized play was evident, even in the loss. While their foreign player has yet to fully live up to the hype, the emergence of Lindsey Young—who has been electric since his debut—and the continued strong play of Marquise Cunningham and defensive specialist Jaden Sutherland give this team a bright future.

The chemistry isn’t there yet, but the foundation is being laid. With more reps and time to gel, this could be the team no one wants to see come playoff time. Add in a growing fanbase and top-tier marketing from the front office, and the Panthers are quietly positioning themselves for a second-half surge.

5. Belize City Thunderbolts – Mayan

The Belize City Thunderbolts were off this past weekend, but they made the loudest noise of all teams with the biggest roster move to date: the signing of national team superstar big man Charles “Shaka” Garcia. Shaka is arguably the most dominant, experienced, and physically imposing player to ever suit up in the BPBL, and his presence instantly alters the trajectory of the Thunderbolts’ season.

With Garcia anchoring the paint, and the hopeful return of a healthy Glency “Coope” Lopez, along with a focused Victor Evans and Eyan Rene, the Thunderbolts are suddenly back in the conversation as legitimate title contenders. The addition of Shaka gives them the muscle they desperately needed inside, particularly after the release of Larry Johnson.

This weekend’s matchup against a rejuvenated Capital City Kings squad will be the first litmus test for this new-look Thunderbolts team. Chemistry between Garcia, Coope, and Evans will be under the spotlight, and how quickly they gel could define the rest of the regular season. All signs point to a potential classic, as both teams have something to prove heading into the All-Star break.

With this kind of firepower, the Thunderbolts are no longer just dangerous—they’re downright terrifying if everything clicks.

4. Belmopan Capital City Kings – Mayan

The Belmopan Capital City Kings have taken a major leap forward in the development of their young stars. Nissani Mendez exploded for 40 points in an overtime thriller against the Dangriga Dream Ballers, cementing his rise as a legitimate scoring threat. Z. Pratt is beginning to find chemistry with Mendez, while Jayden Lopez and McKenzie continue to make notable strides. Brandon “Puddy” Flowers remains an all-conference caliber player and a cornerstone for the team.

The recent signing of American big man Keondre Jackson, combined with a now-healthy Daniel Estes, gives Belmopan a formidable frontcourt duo that could be the difference-maker in their playoff push. The Kings are playing with renewed energy and confidence, and this week’s game against the newly reinforced Thunderbolts will go a long way in shaping the Mayan Conference standings.

With their young core growing stronger, the front office making strategic moves, and the signing of Keondre Jackson, Belmopan is emerging as a serious contender for home court advantage in the Mayan Cup. This weekend will reveal just how real their championship aspirations are.

3. Cayo Western Ballers – Mayan

The Cayo Western Ballers hoped this past weekend would be their official coronation as Jaguar Cup favorites. Though they ultimately fell in overtime to the more experienced San Pedro Tiger Sharks, the Western Ballers came incredibly close to sealing the deal in regulation. Without Jehad Wright on the floor, they still pushed the defending champs to the brink, proving they are legitimate title contenders.

Newly signed big man Nick Everett, a 6’8” powerhouse from Wooster College in Ohio, is still adjusting to the physicality and climate of the BPBL. Once he finds his footing, he could be the final piece of the puzzle for an already loaded Cayo roster. Jaheim Ciego continues to own the glass, while Kerwin Palacio and Arik Nicholas give them a defensive identity that no team wants to go up against.

Arik still needs to adapt to the league’s scouting and adjustments, and Dennis Flowers III must elevate his fourth-quarter play to match his star billing. The emergence of Darnell “Shabba” Oden has added a new dimension to Cayo’s frontcourt; his 20-point double-double in the big Sharks game was a breakout performance. If Shabba can bring that physicality and production every night, and if Rodrigo Barrera—Western Ballers GM—lands another scoring threat at the number two spot (where current production is under five points per game), this team could match the offensive firepower of the Sharks and Thunderbolts. If the stars rise to the moment and the supporting cast steps up, the Western Ballers won’t just contend—they’ll be right there when championship banners are raised.

2. Dangriga Dream Ballers – Toucan

The Dangriga Dream Ballers weathered the storm in Belmopan with an OT win and escaped with their ranking intact. They played without the use of a foreigner, as did Belmopan, and showed toughness on the road in the BPBL’s most heated new rivalry.

They returned home on Sunday to face the upstart PG Panthers and quickly found themselves down 20 in front of their own fans. Things looked bleak for a tired Dream Ballers squad, but then the heart of a champion took over. Griga erased the 20-point deficit and stormed back to build a nearly 20-point lead of their own by the end of the third quarter.

All of this happened with virtually no contribution from their foreign player, who logged just six minutes before being benched and later waived. The big news of the weekend was the arrival of Deshawn Brackett as the first BPBL player to score 100 points, bringing national attention and serious star power to the EZ Investments Griga Dream Ballers. GM Raneosha has been working the phones, and if the rumored high-profile signings in the pipeline materialize, Griga could become the most intimidating venue in the league for any team hoping to steal a finals or championship game on the road.

If that move materializes, the Dream Ballers may very well leapfrog to the number one spot in the Toucan Conference—or even the entire BPBL. Stay tuned, because the south is buzzing.

1. San Pedro Tiger Sharks – Toucan

For the third consecutive week, the undefeated San Pedro Tiger Sharks remain the number one team in the Jungle—and the BPBL. The Sharks passed yet another brutal test by defeating the number two team in the Toucan Conference (Griga) in overtime and following it up with another overtime win over the top team in the Mayan Conference (Cayo), both on the road and both without their team captain.

Led by Malik Hunt, who is emerging as a physically dominant force with surprisingly graceful finishing moves, the Sharks boast a roster that can beat you with speed, power, or execution. Keon Rowland and Tyrell Griffith—the two young Jaguar Cubs—are maturing quickly, and Leggy has blossomed into a legitimate starter who brings versatility and grit. This core group can match the speed of players like Arana and the strength of bruisers like Brian White or Hunt.

With Minister Devin Daily and Jehad Wright providing locker room leadership and arguably the highest basketball IQ in the league (outside of Thunderbolt vets or PG’s Alex Carcamo), this team looks locked in. Remarkably, they’ve made zero roster moves since opening day, and they continue to win blowouts, close games, and everything in between.

The Sharks are perched atop the Jaguar Hill—and right now, they look like they’re staying there.

By The GM

Land Sharks take Control of Jungle

IN DEEP WATERS

Jungle Rewind: OT Showdown at the Sacred Heart – Land Sharks Survive Cayo in Jungle Classic

San Pedro Tiger Sharks 80, Cayo Western Ballers 75 (OT)

This one had everything. Momentum swings, late-game heroics, and a taste of playoff intensity. It was the first major clash of the season between two teams atop their conferences—the Cayo Western Ballers and the San Pedro Tiger Sharks—in what many are calling an early Jaguar Cup preview. Cayo had the lineup, talent, and home ambiance to challenge the undefeated Sharks, who came in shorthanded without Jehad Wright. Meanwhile, the Ballers unveiled their newest weapon, 6’8″ 240-pound Ohio big man Nick Everett, whose physical presence immediately made an impact.

The Cayo Western Ballers, fueled by a monster double-double from Dennis Flowers III (15 pts, 14 reb, 4 ast) and the relentless paint work of Darnell Oden (20 pts, 11 reb), took the San Pedro Tiger Sharks to the wire at home. But in the end, it was the veteran poise of Francis Arana (10 pts, 15 reb, 3 ast) and Malik Hunt (18 pts, 13 reb) that helped the Sharks escape with an 80–75 overtime win on the road.

First Quarter: Ciego Sparks the Ballers

Cayo opened with fire thanks to Jahiem Ciego, who poured in 8 of his 13 points in the first quarter. Flowers hit a triple on the opening possession, but it was Ciego’s midrange mastery and second-chance efforts that steadied the Ballers early. San Pedro, led by Tyrell Griffith (12 pts, 10 reb, 3 stl), responded with transition buckets and quick ball movement. Arik Nicholas (14 pts, 4 reb, 2 ast) and Aaron Allison’s three-pointer gave Cayo a brief edge, but Keon Rowland (19 pts, 3 ast) snatched it back with a coast-to-coast layup to end the quarter 18–17 in favor of the Sharks.

Second Quarter: Flowers and Oden Take Over

The second was a scoring clinic by the Cayo wings. Dennis Flowers III nailed a corner three and followed with a crafty pull-up, while Oden came alive off the bench, dropping 10 of his 20 points in the period. Arik Nicholas, who led the Ballers with 10 points in the first half, was a steadying force—his midrange game and slashing layups kept the Sharks from collapsing the paint. Oden would finish the night shooting 9-of-23 from the field with a game-high 5 offensive boards.

Jamie Carbajal and Allison added timely triples to stretch the lead to 38–25 before Brian White (12 pts, 15 reb) stopped the bleeding for the Sharks with back-to-back layups. Arik Nicholas, who had 10 points in the first half, was instrumental in dictating the early tempo—slashing to the rim and hitting key pull-ups to keep Cayo in rhythm. Despite a late push from Arana and Hunt, the Ballers ended the half with a commanding 40–32 lead, thanks to 36% shooting, 12 offensive boards, and a plus-8 edge in fast break points.

Third Quarter: Sharks Close the Gap

Francis Arana turned up the heat, grabbing key boards and hitting a pull-up three to cut the lead. Cayo’s Kerwin Palacio and Oden kept the scoreboard ticking, but Rowland’s relentless energy tied the game at 44. Daly added a 2-and-1 floater to give San Pedro their first lead since the opening minutes.

Cayo opened the third quarter ice cold—managing only 2 points in the first six minutes of play. The Sharks pounced on the opportunity, with Francis Arana orchestrating the break and Hunt finishing strong in transition. Griffith and Hunt chipped in with fast break finishes, and Malik would add 6 more in the period. The 14–2 run flipped the game on its head before Oden and Nicholas fought back with back-to-back inside buckets to end the third down just 52–50. The Ballers’ transition defense slipped late in the frame, allowing San Pedro to rack up 14 fast break points by the quarter’s end.

Fourth Quarter: Regulation Madness

Darnell Oden opened the quarter with an and-one to tie it at 52. Francis Arana, who finished with 10 points and 15 boards, buried a clutch three, and Rowland’s coast-to-coast layup gave the Sharks a 59–52 edge.

The Ballers, however, weren’t done. Ciego, Nicholas, and Flowers each had buckets in a 7–0 run. Down 65–61 with under a minute to go, Arik Nicholas (14 pts, 6-17 FG) drove for a layup to keep the Ballers within striking distance. Then, after Dennis Flowers III (15 pts, 14 reb) missed two chances near the rim, Darnell Oden (20 pts, 11 reb) fought through traffic to clean up the glass and tie it with 13 seconds remaining. On the ensuing Sharks possession, Cayo forced a shot clock violation with just 2.7 seconds left. Out of the timeout, the Ballers drew up a last play—Oden launched a contested three that missed, but Everett couldn’t finish the point-blank putback that would’ve won it. The Sharks exhaled and forced overtime.

Overtime: Sharks Seal It

Malik Hunt and Arana delivered in the extra frame. Hunt scored on a pair of tough finishes while Arana dropped a step-back three to stretch the lead to 76–71. Flowers and Oden tried to rally again—Oden finishing a tip-in with under 20 seconds to go—but missed threes and turnovers down the stretch let San Pedro ice it at the line. Devin Daly (7 pts, 3 stl) hit clutch free throws and Brian White grabbed his 15th board to kill any remaining hope.

This one was a statement road win for the top-ranked Sharks. For Cayo, it was a gut-punch loss that showed they can hang with the best, but also revealed their inconsistency in the clutch.

Top Performers

Player

Team

PTS

REB

AST

STL

Darnell Oden

Cayo Western Ballers

20

11

0

0

Dennis Flowers III

Cayo Western Ballers

15

14

4

0

Malik Hunt

San Pedro Tiger Sharks

18

13

0

0

Francis Arana

San Pedro Tiger Sharks

10

15

3

0

Keon Rowland

San Pedro Tiger Sharks

19

4

3

2

Team Trends

  • Cayo Western Ballers: Dominated the glass 55–41 but shot just 38% from the field and 16% from three.
  • San Pedro Tiger Sharks: Scored 13 second-chance points and won the turnover battle 16–11, converting key steals into momentum buckets.

This was one for the books—and a possible playoff preview if these two meet again in the Jaguar Cup in August, the only place they can clash again since they hail from different conferences. The Western Ballers treated this one like a playoff game, with Coach Tarr going deep only twice and essentially relying on a 7-man rotation. It was a clear sign of urgency, but also a concern—Cayo will need to uncover at least one more trusted contributor off the bench to match the 8–9 man depth most contenders bring into the postseason. Meanwhile, the Sharks have solidified themselves as the apex predator in the jungle. The PG Panthers, currently surging with confidence, host Griga in a matchup that could determine whether San Pedro should be on alert—or continue prowling the jungle freely until the Cup rolls around.

 

By paul Flowers jr

Grega bests Kings in OT Thriller

Jungle Rewind

Jungle Rewind: OT Thriller in the Capital – Griga Escapes with gritty Win Over Kings 94–92

EZ Investments Dangriga Dream Ballers 94, Belmopan Capital City Kings 92 (OT)

Friday 13th June 2025, Belmopan City, Belize

In a BPBL showdown packed with fireworks and heart-stopping moments, the EZ Investments Dangriga Dream Ballers silenced the Belmopan crowd with a 94–92 overtime win at the UB Gymnasium. Rookie sensation and BPBL U21 standout Nisani Mendez lit up the jungle with a historic 40-point performance—the first ever 40-piece in league history by any player, of any category, and done in front of a home crowd that saw his perform in grade school and High School.  Mendez poured in 19 points in under 10 minutes in the first half and missed a potential game-winner at the end of regulation. Belmopan entered the contest without Daniel Estes (sore hamstring), and after waiving American big man Moore earlier in the week, were already short on size. Meanwhile, Griga was without Hammer Milton—who suffered a hand injury against San Pedro—and brought in American Jarius Shumpert to reinforce the frontline. Despite the heroic effort, Mendez’s record-setting night wasn’t enough.

First Quarter: Capital Strikes First

The Kings came out poised, with Brandon Flowers (21 pts, 13 reb) and Jayden Lopez (10 pts, 9 ast, 7 reb) setting the tone early. Flowers was aggressive in the midrange, while Lopez orchestrated with 3 early assists. Nisani Mendez hit a pair of long-range bombs as Belmopan jumped out to a 7–0 lead. Griga responded with the inside-out combo of Kevon Laurie (14 pts, 13 reb) and Edgar Mitchell (12 pts, 3 ast), but the visitors held a 25–24 edge after ten minutes.

In the closing minute of the quarter, Antonio Flowers (7 pts, 9 reb, 4 blk) gave the Griga crowd life with a rim-rattling dunk, but Mendez calmly answered on the other end. The Kings’ bench was already getting active, hinting at the depth that would become crucial down the stretch. Belmopan shot 47% from the field in the opening frame while forcing 4 turnovers. Griga countered by hitting 3-of-5 from long range, keeping things tight.

Second Quarter: Brackett Battles Back

The second quarter belonged to Deshawn Brackett. The dynamic guard finished the half with 14 points, 4 assists, and 5 rebounds, including back-to-back triples and a tough baseline drive that had the Griga fans chanting his name. The Dream Ballers built a nine-point cushion at one point thanks to fast break buckets by Raheem Thurton (15 pts on 60% shooting) and Daniel Conorque (15 pts, 5 reb).

But the Kings’ second unit, led by Mendez and Elvert Ariola (4 pts, 2 reb), trimmed the deficit. Mendez, who had erupted for 19 points in under 10 minutes of first-half play, was electric and unstoppable. Shane Pratt’s (8 pts, 11 reb, 2 stl) three-pointer late in the quarter brought Belmopan within five. At halftime, the Dream Ballers held a 52–46 lead. Belmopan’s bench contributed 24 of their 46 first-half points, keeping them within striking distance. Griga shot 41% from deep in the first half while committing only 7 turnovers.

Third Quarter: Mendez’s Mayhem

The third quarter saw Nisani Mendez take over the game like a man possessed. He scored 13 in the frame on pull-up jumpers, drives, and a two-handed fast-break dunk, pushing his total to 29 points. Brandon Flowers added a steady presence with offensive boards and second-chance points, eventually racking up 13 rebounds to go with his 21 points.

Griga, for their part, kept punching back. Laurie continued to crash the glass, and Conorque added two corner threes to keep the scoreboard ticking. Raheem Thurton added a buzzer-beater three that gave Griga a 68–66 lead heading into the fourth. Belmopan shot 44% in the third but struggled at the line, leaving points on the table. The Kings tallied 18 turnovers by the end of the third, many of which led directly to Griga fast-break opportunities.

Fourth Quarter: Drama at Every Turn

The fourth was chaos in its purest form. Both teams traded runs and daggers. Brackett tied it with a wing three, only to see Mendez respond with an acrobatic layup through traffic. Conorque’s triple tied it at 86 before a sequence of fouls, missed free throws, and defensive rebounds set up the overtime. In the final seconds of regulation, Mendez had a golden opportunity to seal the win but missed a putback attempt at the rim. Griga, despite the scare, held firm defensively and kept the game alive.

A massive block from Shane Pratt on a Laurie layup attempt with seconds left preserved the tie. With the score deadlocked at 86, we headed to OT with everyone out of breath. The quarter saw seven lead changes and five ties, as Belmopan hit three huge threes but went just 6-of-11 at the stripe. Meanwhile, Griga pounded the paint and shot 10-of-19 from inside the arc.

Overtime: Brackett & Laurie Deliver the Dagger

Overtime was a heavyweight slugfest. Conorque gave Griga the lead with a strong drive, and Brackett responded with a crafty reverse layup to bring his total to 20 points. Laurie came through with a tip-in that gave Griga a late lead. Then, following a huge defensive stop, Brackett missed a short jumper, but the rebound fell to Conorque who ran out the clock.

The Dream Ballers erupted. Mendez finished with a career-high 40 points, the highest single-game mark in the BPBL’s young history. But Griga got the win, surviving on resilience, rebounding, and just enough poise. Belmopan finished with 22 offensive rebounds and 58 total boards, but turnovers (17) proved costly in the clutch.

In the end, Griga’s speed and athleticism and experience proved to be the difference in the game. Belmopan, however, grew up last night as their all homegrown players showed what the future of Belize basketball can be if they stick to this development plan and program. The Kings have a young core of stars and a rookie coach, but the growth and development are evident in the team and the players. The have old problems of decision making down the stretch, especially on the last play to end the regulation time. The likely will have new problems as Nissani Mendez coming off the bench is becoming an increasingly louder question for them to answer. Perhaps the absence of the foreigners was necessary to sift the chaff from wheat among their young stars.  Tough decisions lie ahead when the foreigners return. Patience and harder work are necessary for this team to emerge as a contender in a now rapidly deepening Mayan Conference.

Top Performers

PlayerTeamPTSREBASTSTL
Nisani MendezCapital City Kings40621
Deshawn BrackettDangriga Dream Ballers20871
Brandon FlowersCapital City Kings211320
Kevon LaurieDangriga Dream Ballers141301
Raheem ThurtonDangriga Dream Ballers15300

Team Trends

  • Dangriga Dream Ballers: Dominated the boards with 49 rebounds and 10 made threes but shot just 52% from the free throw line.

  • Capital City Kings: Scored 46 points off the bench, forced 18 turnovers, and got a historic performance from Mendez but dropped to 1–4 with another painful late-game loss.

Next up, the Kings will regroup and return home still searching for answers, now staring down a pivotal matchup against the 2–3 Thunderbolts—the only team they’ve managed to beat so far this season. With Cayo enjoying a two-game lead in the Mayan Conference, this clash could ultimately determine who snags home-court advantage for the opening round of the Mayan playoffs. A loss here would push the Kings further behind in the standings and raise the pressure on their remaining schedule.

Meanwhile, Griga turns around quickly to host the red-hot Punta Gorda Panthers this Sunday. The Panthers, fresh off an emotional sweep of the Corozal Cerros Suns, are charging into the south with swagger and intent, eager to prove their recent dominance is no fluke.

By Paul Flowers Jr