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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

Week 5 Preview

Week 5 Preview

ONE SHOT!!!

“Look… If you had one shot, one opportunity… to seize everything you ever wanted… one moment… Would you capture it—or just let it slip?”

Alright folks, don’t ‘lose yourself’ just yet… but this week in the Jungle, the Western Ballaz, the top dogs in the Mayan Cup Conference, are set to clash with the kings of the Toucan Cup and the entire BPBL — the one and only Tiger Sharks.

Right now, the Ballaz sit at #3 in the league — exactly where I predicted they’d be at season’s start, with fresh steels from all over the jungle. And now they get one shot. One moment to go head-to-head against the #1 ranked, battle-tested, championship-winning Sharks — also where I had them from day one. But this time, the Ballaz get to do it on their turf. Home sweet home. Cayoooo! The richest part of the jungle in Belize.

This isn’t a conference game, like PG Panthers vs. Griga Dream Ballers — who also square off this weekend. They’ll get four chances to mix, match, reshuffle, and fight it out. The Panthers are hot off two major wins — victories I believe will lock them into the postseason, or at least the play-in.

But Griga? They’re limping out of an OT war with a loss that hurt more than their record. Word is, the league’s most feared player — James “The Hammer” Milton — might be out with injury. Some say Griga isn’t waiting for him to heal and could be replacing him immediately. That’s rough, especially with a game lined up against the Capital City Kings, who shocked the Bolts last week, only to gift-wrap their crown and hand it to the Sharks on Sunday thanks to a flurry of late turnovers.

Yes, there’s plenty heat in the Jungle this weekend… but none of it compares to the main event. Because the BPBL, in their wisdom — or lack thereof, depending on your spin — has crafted a true one shot moment.

For the Ballaz — the thieving, young-gun squad from out west — this is their chance to do what they do best: steal the crown. And they’ve got the pieces to do it.

Look at Arik Nicholas — fresh outta college and bursting onto the BPBL scene, playing every second like it’s his last and putting up 20 per game.

Or Dennis Flowers III — the sneakiest Belizean-American in the league. He might stay quiet for three quarters, then suddenly drop 15 on your head. That’s why he’s averaging over 18.

Still, seizing the moment means needing more interior presence or simply put just more. Word is they’ve already sent their import packing — not because he was bad, just not good enough. They’re looking for something more, maybe a true difference-maker.

A 6’8″, 240-pound beast might be in the works. But even that won’t be enough unless Jaheim “Air” Ciego takes flight again, and Kyron “Tut” Molina shakes off the injury and starts splashing those corner threes, bringing that Cayo aggression.

Because the Sharks? They’ve smelled blood. And they’ve been feeding all season long.

Jihad Wright leads like a veteran.
Francis Arana is making me look bad every week by not saying his name enough — now he’s dropping 20 a night just to prove a point.
Brian “Beso” White is still gobbling up every board in sight.
And Malik Hunt, the Beast Tamer, straight up neutralized “The Hammer” last week — injury or not.

Let’s not forget the baby sharks — Tyrell Griffith and Keon Rowland — clutch buckets down the stretch, sealing the wins. And oh yeah… Mr. Devin Daly, Minister of Sharks, didn’t even touch the court in either game last week. Think about that.

So now I ask you…

Do the Western Ballaz have enough to lose themselves in the moment?
To seize the crown in the Jungle?
Or will the Sharks circle, strike, and remind the league who really runs this jungle?

BY: Coach jamel wagner

Power Ranking Week 4

BPBL Power ranking

Week 4

Week 4 Power Rankings: The Jungle Tightens

Welcome to Week 4, where the dust is finally starting to settle—but don’t get too comfortable. The jungle is still teeming with predators, wounded giants, and hungry upstarts all clawing for position.

We’ve now seen every team at least once, and the early-season storylines are beginning to take shape. The Sharks are circling with composure and control. The Dream Ballers are swinging big and praying their new hammer hits just as hard. The Ballers from the West have reloaded. Meanwhile, the Thunderbolts are trying to plug the leaks before their ship sinks, and the Kings are figuring out what kind of monarchy they’re really running.

Then there are the surprise Suns and the surging Panthers—two teams proving that this league isn’t just about who’s got the names on the back, but who’s got the fight in their chest.

The BPBL isn’t about hype anymore. It’s about who can hold up under the weight of expectation, travel, injuries, and pressure. Four weeks in, and there’s still everything to play for.

Let’s rank ‘em.

By The GM

7. Corozal cerros suns - toucan

It was a weekend the Cerros Suns will want to forget. After riding high off their shocking upset over the Thunderbolts and climbing from 7th to 6th in the power rankings, they set the stage for a crucial two-game showdown against the last-place PG Panthers. The opportunity was clear: take control of the third seed in the Toucan Conference and solidify their postseason aspirations.

Game one was a disaster. The revamped Panthers looked nothing like their early-season selves and blew the Suns out of the building on Friday night. Game two seemed headed in the opposite direction as Corozal surged to a 24-point lead in the fourth quarter—but then came a collapse of epic proportions. The Panthers stormed back, and the Suns let the win—and their position—slip through their fingers in the final seconds.

There are still signs of promise. Chemistry is growing. Role players are stepping up. Brandon Flowers, in particular, is emerging as a reliable and consistent third option behind Greg “Chippy” Rudon and Jamaal Clifton, contributing 16 points and 7 rebounds on Friday, followed by a 14-point outing with key fourth-quarter buckets on Saturday. With their confidence growing that they can make noise in the Toucan Conference, expect roster adjustments from the Suns this week to help shore up depth and experience. But losing both games to the Panthers on such a pivotal weekend was a major blow. With a back-to-back against the Griga Dream Ballers looming in Week 6, the Suns must regroup fast and restart the climb. The road to the postseason just got a lot steeper.

6. Punta Gorda Panthers

The Panthers are no longer just a feel-good story—they’re a problem. PG Organization overhauled its roster and injected new life into the rotation, including adding a new operations manager in Denver Fairweather. They walked into Week 4 with something to prove and walked out with back-to-back wins over the Suns to prove it.

GM Alex Carcamo has built something dangerous. Marquise Cunningham lived up to his offseason hype with a dominant Friday night performance, attacking the Suns in transition and punishing them in the paint. Newcomer Lindsey Young was electric in his debut, earning Player of the Game honors on Saturday after posting 19 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, and 4 steals, while shooting 44.4% from the field and 75% from the line. Kelvin Cumberbatch, waived from Griga in Week 2, has been reborn in PG as a promising young big man—his spark was key to the 24-point comeback. And Jaden Sutherland? Instant defense. The rookie showed he can guard anyone from guards to wings, and he gave PG a much-needed edge on the perimeter.

This team suddenly has depth. It has versatility. It has belief.

Now comes the real test. A road game in Griga against the Dream Ballers—one of the league’s toughest venues and one of its most complete teams. Is PG for real? Can this performance scale to elite competition? Carcamo says it’s just the beginning, and with another week of practice, he believes PG will “shock the league on Sunday.”

If they do, it might not just be a win—it might be a playoff preview.

5Belize City Thunderbolts-Mayan

The Thunderbolts are in free fall. They went into Belmopan shorthanded again, with superstar guard Glency Lopez out nursing an ankle injury, Ty Hall unavailable, and Eyan Rene out sick for a second straight game. Add to that the recent release of center Larry Johnson, and it was clear the Bolts’ already thin bench had very little left in the tank by the fourth quarter.

A frustrated Victor Evans—already playing through physical play—was ejected in the final period after a 10-0 Kings run (and a bloody lip), effectively extinguishing any hope of a Thunderbolts comeback. Meanwhile, Matthew Young continued to shine as the lone bright spot for the Bolts, delivering 22 points and pulling down 12 rebounds on Sunday following a 27-rebound performance in Corozal. His paint dominance has been unwavering week after week, yet the absence of support around him is becoming increasingly glaring. Young is screaming for help, and unless reinforcements arrive, his stellar efforts alone won’t be enough to turn things around.

Now on a four-game slide, Belize City has two weeks to regroup and get healthy. There are whispers of a big-name replacement for Larry Johnson, and hopes are high that both Coope and Eyan will be back in the lineup when they host Belmopan for a much-anticipated rematch.

One thing is clear: the Thunderbolts no longer strike fear into the hearts of their opponents. Whether it’s injuries, roster imbalance, or locker room fatigue, this once-feared team now looks vulnerable and needs urgent answers from both coaching staff and front office if they hope to stop the bleeding.

Still, despite a 2–3 record, no one doubts that a fully healthy Thunderbolts squad is among the most dangerous in the league. But rankings are earned, not assumed—and nothing from the past two weeks suggests this team belongs anywhere near the top. For now, their drop from number two to number five continues and they now look down on a charging Panther, instead of up at a fast disappearing Tiger Shark

4. Belmopan Capital city kings-Mayan

The Capital City Kings had one of those weekends that felt like two seasons in one. With their backs against the wall and staring down a potential three-game slide, the Kings hosted the Thunderbolts on Friday night—and made a statement.

If there’s royalty in Belmopan, then Nissani Mendez is its rising star. The young guard was electric, scoring 23 points, grabbing 3 rebounds, dishing out 3 assists, and collecting 2 steals in just under 25 minutes of action—while sparking run after run to push the Kings past the mighty Thunderbolts. Brandon “Puddy” Flowers was his usual consistent self, providing physical paint presence and momentum-shifting plays that had the Belmopan crowd on their feet. Daniel Estes, who had just landed in the country the night before, wasted no time making an impact. With bruising energy and post dominance, he gave the Kings a much-needed edge in the paint, finally balancing the floor and allowing the offense to breathe.

But the weekend celebration was short-lived. On Sunday, the Kings traveled to Belize City to take on the league-leading Tiger Sharks—who were fresh off a bruising overtime win in Dangriga just hours earlier. Instead of a tired squad, Belmopan met a focused Shark team that ran away with the game after a back-and-forth battle ended with a fourth-quarter onslaught. Mendez, after his breakout Friday night, proved far from consistent, while injuries to both bigs played a key role in the late-game collapse.

Even with the split, Belmopan appears satisfied. The front office has already filed for a change at the American import position—signaling that chess moves are being made. With a young core in Mendez, Jayden Lopez, Zach Pratt, and McKenzie, the Kings are trending upward. Still, Mendez must prove he can be a consistent contributor, and the injuries to both big men exposed vulnerabilities that must be addressed. In a conference that features elite guards like Glency Lopez, Ty Hall, and Dennis Flowers III, Belmopan’s guards must adapt to the league’s physicality. Their late-game ball handling and decision-making remain suspect, and unless they stabilize the backcourt, they will struggle to win close games against top-tier opponents. If they can figure that out and solidify the center spot with a high-impact replacement, Belmopan could become a serious threat in the Mayan Conference.

3. Cayo western Ballers

The Cayo Western Ballers had a front-row seat to the chaos last weekend, with Arik Nicholas even spotted in his hometown of Punta Gorda. While others battled for position and respect, Cayo was quietly recalibrating—and they’ve made a move that could shift the balance of power.

Arriving from Wooster College in Ohio is 6’8″, 240-pound big man Nick Everett, a bruising presence who might be the missing piece for an already formidable squad. With high flyers like Ciego and Arik patrolling the skies and elite guard play anchoring the perimeter, Cayo’s interior just got a serious upgrade. Everett’s presence in the paint adds physicality and scoring depth to an already well-balanced team.

With top-tier perimeter guard play form Dennis Flowers and elite front court dominance from Arik Nicholas, Kerwin Palacio, and Jaheim Ciego, and one of the league’s sharpest coaching minds at the helm, the Western Ballers now look like legitimate contenders—not just for the Mayan Conference title, but for the Jaguar Cup itself.

Lucky for us, the schedule gods have delivered. This Saturday night, it’s “Rumble in the Jungle” as the Ballers host the undefeated San Pedro Tiger Sharks in San Ignacio. The most confident team in the league takes on the most dominant. It’s the statement game of the week, and maybe a preview of September’s Jaguar championship. Let the games begin.

2. Dangriga Dream ballers

The Dangriga Dream Ballers proved they can match the speed and physicality of the San Pedro Tiger Sharks in a high-octane thriller that came down to the final possession. With five seconds left in regulation, Kevon Lourie missed a potential game-winning layup, sending the game to overtime, where the Sharks ultimately escaped with a hard-fought victory to remain unbeaten.

But the victory came with a costly price tag. Star big man James “Hammer” Milton sustained a significant injury during the game, casting doubt on Griga’s ability to maintain their dominance. Word is a replacement big is en route, but the burning question remains—are we getting Hammer 2.0 or just a rubber mallet?

This weekend’s showdown against the surging PG Panthers will tell us everything we need to know. For Griga, it’s about proving they still belong among the elite—even without Hammer in the lineup. Deshawn Brackett, who dropped 33 points against the Sharks, is making a serious case for elite guard status alongside Coope Lopez, Francis Arana, and Dennis Flowers III. However, the ever-present but inconsistent outside shooting of Boogie Mitchell and the up-and-down play of Conorque are raising questions about whether Griga’s long-term stock will hold—especially if their replacement big turns out to be more of a rubber mallet than another Hammer. For the Panthers, it’s a shot at full-fledged respect. Either way, all eyes are on BATTLE for the South this weekend.

1. San Pedro Tiger Sharks

Much needs to be said about what the San Pedro Tiger Sharks accomplished this past weekend. Let us first commend Coach Rico Black and the entire Sharks organization for rising to the occasion despite one of the most demanding schedules imaginable.

The number one team in the Toucan Conference met the number one team in the Mayan Conference—and the San Pedro Tiger Sharks were the only team this season handed back-to-back games in two different cities, with less than 24 hours separating them. The Sharks opened their weekend with a bruising overtime thriller in Dangriga—arguably the most hostile road environment in the league—and followed that up by traveling straight to Belmopan to face a surging Capital City Kings team still riding the momentum of a franchise-defining victory the night before.

Through it all, the Tiger Sharks never complained. They didn’t fold. Instead, they rose to the challenge and turned adversity into an opportunity to separate themselves from the rest of the league. Their grit, discipline, and depth were on full display, as they not only survived but thrived under pressure.

With a more forgiving schedule ahead—just one game this Saturday against a revitalized Cayo Western Ballers squad—the Sharks now have the rare luxury of rest and preparation. But make no mistake: this matchup is far from easy. The Ballers sit atop the Mayan Conference and are widely considered the most balanced and confident unit in the league.

This weekend’s clash is more than just a regular-season game—it’s a showdown for league supremacy. Two top teams, two elite coaching staffs, one massive jungle brawl. Buckle up.

By The GM

Desperation in the Kingdom results in A Star being Born

Capital Punishment

🐾 Jungle Rewind

Desperation in the Kingdom results in A Star being Born

Belmopan Capital City Kings vs Belize City Thunderbolts
Venue: The Capital Dome | Final: Kings 85, Thunderbolts 75

There are games that change a team’s season, and sometimes, the league’s entire narrative. Both the Belmopan Capital City Kings and the Belize City Thunderbolts entered the Capital Dome desperate to snap two-game losing streaks. Everyone knew the stakes: fall to 0–3 in the Mayan Conference and you’re suddenly chasing, not leading, the Cup race.

But the story everyone will be talking about? Nisani Mendez, the electrifying young guard fresh out of college hoops in Arizona, dropped a career-high 23 points on 7-of-15 shooting, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals and put the entire league on notice. On a night where stars needed to rise, Mendez stole the spotlight and ignited the home crowd—and maybe the Kings’ entire season.

But for the second game in a row the Bolts came in shorthanded—Glency Lopez (sprained ankle), Eyan Rene (ill), Larry Johnson (recently waived), and the ever-dangerous Tyrone Hall (unavailable) all sidelined. Could the Thunderbolts’ next-men-up keep pace with the streaking Kings, or would Belmopan seize the moment and flip the script on the conference pecking order?

First Quarter – Kings Strike, Bolts Respond

The Kings came out hungry, with Julian Theissen (9 points, 4 rebounds) igniting the crowd early—splashing a three and slicing inside for buckets. Shane Pratt (15 points, 3 boards, 2 steals, 1 block) set the tone on the glass and on defense, battling for second-chance points and picking off lazy passes.

But the Thunderbolts’ Alejandro Baptist (12 points, a monster 17 rebounds) showed why he’s the BPBL’s most physical big, cleaning up the paint and scoring on three straight trips. Victor Evans (14 points, 8 boards, 6 assists, 1 block) answered the call as a two-way engine, helping Bolts surge ahead with back-to-back jumpers and slick dimes.

Midway through, Brandon Flowers (18 points, 10 rebounds) checked in and immediately made his presence felt—scoring through contact and snatching tough boards. But Tablada (10 points, 2 boards, 2 steals) and Young (22 points, 17 rebounds) helped the Bolts close the period up four.

End of Q1: Kings 19, Thunderbolts 23

Second Quarter – Mendez Takes Over

With the Dome buzzing, Mendez started to cook. He poured in 9 second-quarter points—attacking the rim, knocking down midrange jumpers, and grabbing a steal for a coast-to-coast finish. When the Bolts threatened to pull away, Mendez answered with a triple and then set up Pratt for an easy bucket.

Jamaal Harris (7 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals) hit a momentum three, but Matthew Young (22 points, 17 rebounds) and Michael Caseras (10 points, 3 boards) kept the Bolts within striking distance with second-chance finishes and free throws.

With under a minute left, Mendez drew contact—coolly hitting both free throws to tie the game at the break, already up to 13 points and playing with the composure of a veteran.

Halftime: Kings 41, Thunderbolts 41

Third Quarter – Kings’ Young Guns Rise

Bolts came out aggressive, Donovan Baird (7 points, 6 rebounds) and Baptist again attacking inside. But Belmopan’s answer was their new “Big 3”—Flowers, Mendez, and Harris.
Flowers hammered in a putback, then drilled a pair of threes to push the Kings ahead. On the next sequence, Mendez drove baseline, drew defenders, and whipped a pass to John Kelly (9 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals), who calmly finished at the cup.

Harris drained a deep three, and Theissen grabbed two quick boards to keep the Kings in control. Bolts wouldn’t go away—Evans, Young, and Tablada cut the lead back to one, but a late 8-0 Kings run, capped by a Flowers fast-break layup and another Mendez assist, brought the Dome to its feet.

End of Q3: Kings 65, Thunderbolts 62

Fourth Quarter – The Mendez Moment

You could feel the crowd’s anticipation—Mendez with 17 points and still attacking. Early in the quarter, he hit a slick pull-up, then found Pratt for an and-one. When the Bolts tried a zone, Mendez split it and tossed a no-look to Kelly for an easy finish.

The Thunderbolts began to unravel. Victor Evans picked up a technical (and then a disqualifying foul) after a hard challenge on Mendez, who calmly drained four straight free throws. Moments later, Mendez sliced through the lane for his 23rd point—his new BPBL career high, with the crowd chanting his name.

Down the stretch, Flowers sealed the glass, Harris and Lopez (7 points, 5 rebounds) iced free throws, and Kelly hit a final triple for punctuation.

Final: Kings 85, Thunderbolts 75

Top Performers

Player

Points

Rebounds

Assists

Steals

Blocks

Nisani Mendez

23*

3

3

2

0

Brandon Flowers

18

10

1

0

0

Shane Pratt

15

3

1

2

1

John Kelly

9

8

2

2

0

Thunderbolts:

     

Matthew Young

22

17

0

1

0

Victor Evans

14

8

6

0

1

Alejandro Baptist

12

17

1

0

0

*Career-high for Mendez

Team Trends

  • Belmopan:
    • Outscored Bolts by 10 in the fourth, thanks to Mendez’s scoring and Flowers’ rebounding
    • Grabbed 15 offensive boards, converted at the line (10-for-22)
    • Defense forced 16 Thunderbolts turnovers
  • Thunderbolts:
    • Young and Baptist combined for 34 boards, but Bolts shot just 21% from three and 59% from the line
    • Evans’ ejection killed late momentum
    • Short bench (no Hall, Lopez, Rene, or Johnson) wore down as the game went on

Final Word

Nisani Mendez—Belmopan’s very own, now BPBL’s brightest—announced himself with a career-high 23 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals. Flowers (18 & 10) and Pratt (15 & 3) gave the Kings the muscle, but this was Mendez’s night, and maybe his season.
The Kings are back in the hunt. The Thunderbolts leave with questions—and the rest of the league just met its new star.

But the story everyone will be talking about? Nisani Mendez, the electrifying young guard fresh out of college hoops in Arizona, dropped a career-high 23 points and put the entire league on notice. On a night where stars needed to rise, Mendez stole the spotlight and ignited the home crowd—and maybe the Kings’ entire season.

By Paul Flowers Jr

San Pedro Edges Griga in an Overtime Clash of Titans

The Jungle Rises in the South

Jungle Rewind: San Pedro Edges Griga in an Overtime Clash of Titans

San Pedro Tiger Sharks 77, EZ Investments Dangriga Dream Ballers 74 (OT)

In a game that lived up to its billing and then some, the San Pedro Tiger Sharks held on for a thrilling 77–74 overtime victory over the EZ Investments Dangriga Dream Ballers in a showdown for sole possession of first place in both the BPBL standings and the Toucan Conference. The number one team in the league power rankings, the Tiger Sharks, walked into the packed Russell Chiste Garcia Stadium to face the second-ranked Dream Ballers—and survived a Deshawn Brackett onslaught and one of the most intense games of the season.

First Quarter: Griga’s Hot Start

Griga came out charged by a loud home crowd and efficient early offense. Kevon Laurie and James Milton owned the paint early, while Deshawn Brackett wasted no time getting into rhythm. The Dream Ballers moved the ball well and held San Pedro to just 33% shooting, taking a slim lead behind Brackett’s transition finishes and Edgar Mitchell’s calm control. Arana and Rowland struggled to get clean looks early, and Griga finished the quarter leading 13–11.

Second Quarter: Sharks Find Their Bite

The Tiger Sharks responded in the second. Francis Arana started to heat up, showing off his midrange touch and slicing the defense with quick drives. Keon Rowland started finding the net after missing his first five, and San Pedro clawed back in front. Despite Deshawn Brackett’s relentless attack and Daniel Conorque’s timely layups, Griga’s turnovers (7 in the quarter) allowed the Sharks to steal momentum. The teams traded buckets down the stretch, entering halftime virtually even at 32–31.

Third Quarter: Jaws Fully Engaged

San Pedro made their push after the break, with Rowland finally erupting for 10 third-quarter points including a poster dunk and a key steal that led to a fast-break bucket. Tyrell Griffith added physicality in the lane, and Arana controlled pace. But Griga refused to fade—Brackett exploded for 11 points in the frame, hitting back-to-back threes late to tie the game at 50 heading into the fourth. The crowd, and the drama, reached peak intensity.

Fourth Quarter: Toe-to-Toe Until the Buzzer

The final frame was a prize fight. Brackett and Rowland went bucket-for-bucket, with Griga crashing the boards hard behind Laurie and Milton—until a significant blow landed off the court. James Milton, a key presence on both ends, suffered a painful laceration between the fingers on his shooting hand that forced him out of the game. Without his interior presence, Griga had to dig deep to protect the paint and generate second-chance points. Still, they battled on. They briefly led 64–62 after a Conorque triple, and the Russell Chiste Garcia Stadium roared in anticipation. But as Kevin Laurie stole the ball and charged downcourt for what looked like a buzzer-beating layup, Keon Rowland delivered a dramatic block in transition to silence the crowd and force overtime, knotted at 66.

Overtime: Sharks Hold Their Nerve

OT was a tactical grind. Rowland and Arana made key plays—none bigger than Rowland’s clutch layup to give San Pedro a 75–71 edge. Brackett hit another triple to pull Griga within one, but Arana sank two free throws with 26 seconds left and Griga’s final heave fell short. Ball game. Sharks win, hearts break in Griga.

Final Word

This was championship-level basketball in early June. Deshawn Brackett was otherworldly—33 points, 11-of-24 shooting, 7-for-10 at the line, and a will to win unmatched. But San Pedro, led by Arana (22 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists) and Rowland (19 points), executed late and showed the kind of poise worthy of a top-ranked squad.

Both teams walk away knowing they may see each other again—with even higher stakes.

Top Performers

Player

Team

PTS

REB

AST

STL

Deshawn Brackett

Dangriga Dream

33

3

1

4

Francis Arana

San Pedro Sharks

22

9

3

5

Keon Rowland

San Pedro Sharks

19

5

3

1

Kevon Laurie

Dangriga Dream

10

12

2

4

Tyrell Griffith

San Pedro Sharks

13

9

1

4

Team Trends

  • Griga: Shot just 19.2% from three and had 24 turnovers. Brackett carried the offense, but the supporting cast shot a combined 6-for-31.
  • San Pedro: Won the rebounding battle 70–51 and scored 25 second-chance points. Their depth and late-game composure were the difference.

Watch out—this rivalry is only heating up.

By Paul Flowers Jr

The Jungle Rises in the South

The Jungle Rises in the South

JUNGLE REWIND: PG PANTHERS VS COROZAL CERROS SUNS

June 6, 2025 – PG Sports Auditorium

Final Score: PG Panthers 84 – Corozal Suns 71

The Jungle Rises in the South

Friday night lights in Punta Gorda illuminated a landmark win for the PG Panthers as they clawed their way to a commanding 84–71 victory over the Corozal Cerros Suns. With the largest home crowd of the season and the scent of tambran and sweat in the air, the Panthers defended their den with pride, sending a loud message to the rest of the Toucan Conference.

From the opening tip, PG looked determined. Marquise Cunningham scored early and often, while Chance Leslie dropped 7 of his 11 points in the opening frame. The Panthers’ defense, anchored by Cunningham’s early paint presence, forced turnovers and contested every shot. Corozal’s Brandon Rogers and Greg Rudon tried to match pace, with Rudon knocking down an early triple. But PG’s efficient transition offense and composure at the free throw line gave them a narrow 21–17 lead at the end of one.

In the second quarter, the Southern Storm Intensified as both teams traded buckets early, but it was PG’s bench that sparked a mini-run. Dane Bradley’s hustle and Kevin Hamilton’s presence stabilized the second unit. Julian Young drained a clutch triple to widen the gap, and Cunningham kept cleaning the glass. For the Suns, Marquis Williams and Isienie Velasquez chipped in, but turnovers and missed threes stalled their rhythm. At the break, the Panthers led 43–40, with the game still within reach.

The Panthers exploded in the third quarter with a decisive 27–11 run that flipped the script. Jaden Sutherland sliced through Corozal’s defense for 8 of his 15 points, while Lindsay Young and Sorensen controlled the tempo. The highlight of the night came when Kevin Hamilton dished a no-look dime to Cunningham for a thunderous finish. Corozal couldn’t find consistent offense despite Rudon’s efforts, and the Suns’ defense sagged under the weight of PG’s momentum. PG entered the fourth up 70–51.

Corozal attempted to mount a comeback in the fourth quarter with late pushes from Jeff Clifton (formerly Jason Vasquez) and Brandon Rogers, but PG never flinched. Cunningham completed his 16-point, 15-rebound night with a clutch putback. Jovannie White hit a corner triple and added two key free throws to snuff out Corozal’s final gasp. PG cruised to an 84–71 win, showcasing balance, athleticism, and improving execution.

Panther Paw Prints – Notables from PG:

Marquise Cunningham: 16 PTS, 15 REB, 4 BLK – jungle general in the paint.

Jaden Sutherland: 15 PTS, 6 REB, 6-8 FG – efficient and aggressive.

Chance Leslie: 11 PTS, 2 AST – early offense weapon.

Kevin Hamilton: 6 PTS, 2 AST – spark plug off the bench.

Cerros Suns Glimmer:

Greg Rudon: 15 PTS, 6 REB – fought valiantly through double teams.

Brandon Rogers: 16 PTS, 8 REB – tireless effort on both ends.

Jeff Clifton (Jason Vasquez): 12 PTS, 17 REB – relentless effort, despite the loss.

Team Trends:

PG shot 45.1% from the field and dominated second chance points with 15 offensive boards.

Corozal struggled from the arc, going 4-18 (22.2%), and committed 19 turnovers.

PG dished 16 assists to Corozal’s 14, highlighting better ball movement.

Final Word:

With this win, the PG Panthers now position themselves as serious contenders in the Toucan Conference. The jungle has awakened, and with return match looming the next day, PG has a chance to leapfrog into second place. As for Corozal, this was a step back after their emotional win at home, and GM Lupito Castillo will have to rally the troops quickly if they want to stay in the hunt.

By Paul Flowers Jr

Week 4 Preview

GAME OF THE WEEK?! YOU MUST BE MAD!!

GAME OF THE WEEK?! YOU MUST BE MAD!!

“Look at the schedule—there’s no way this could be the Game of the Week!”
That was my exact reaction when I first heard the news. The Corozal Cerros Suns vs. the PG Panthers? This Friday? Down south in Punta Gorda at the Auditorium? You must be mad!

Just last week, I told the BPBL Marketing Director those exact words. I mean, have you seen this Friday night lineup?

At first glance, this matchup didn’t even seem like the best game in its own division—let alone the Game of the Week! Over in the same conference, you’ve got the San Pedro Tiger Sharks vs. the Dangriga Dream Ballers—a clash of the two best teams. With Griga’s new acquisition “The Hammer” suiting up inside the Russell Chiste Auditorium, there’s a real chance the Sharks could get silenced by the rhythm of the drums and take their first L of the season. Winning in Griga? Tough. Trust me—I know.

Then there’s the Battle of the Cities: Capital City Kings vs. Belize City Thunderbolts. That’s a season-defining match for both squads. One team will take a step closer to the Jaguar Cup; the other will need to figure out how to keep fans in the seat until the play-in tournament. The stakes? Couldn’t be higher.

And don’t sleep on Sunday’s action either—Sharks vs. Kings in a back-end-of-a-double-weekend showdown. Fatigue becomes real. Coaches have little prep time. Players are running on fumes. This could be a sneaky steal for the Kings if the Sharks doze off in the Jungle.

So yeah—I thought the Suns vs. Panthers couldn’t possibly be that game.

But here I am now…walking back every word.

Because down there in the Jungle, what seems written in stone today can turn to dry leaves tomorrow. And what I thought was just another matchup is now shaping up to be the one with the biggest implications.

Let me explain.

These teams will face off twice—Friday and Saturday night. And it’s not just because the Marketing Director told me it’s Game of the Week. It’s not even because the Suns completely changed the narrative last week by edging out the Thunderbolts in a home thriller, tripling their fan base, and even prompting a petition to the Minister of Sports for a bigger auditorium immediately.

No—this is the matchup because if you lose both games this weekend, you might as well book your seats for the playoffs—as a spectator. This is the kind of weekend that determines whether you’re battling in the play-in tournament…or watching on TNC League Pass from your couch.

The Suns are scorching. They’re bringing serious heat to PG, fueled by their new import Jamaal Clifton, a familiar face in Belize’s top leagues. Last we saw him? Helping the Tiger Sharks in the Finals. This week? Dropping 17 points and 12 rebounds, pairing up with veteran sniper Greg “Chippy” Rudon, who lit up the score board with 22 points, including three clutch triples in the second half.

Coach Rupert Brown had that team locked in. They outworked and outcoached Thunder in that one especially in the third quarter and held their own in the 4th edging out the heart of the number 1 point guard in the land Glency Coope Lopez.

And what about the Panthers?

You might scoff at their opening-night 50-point loss to those same Thunderbolts, but context matters. That Thunder lineup was completely different—no Victor Evans, no Eyan Rene, no TJ Hall, and not a single foreign import. Different lineup. Different Team. Zero conference implications.

Just like the Thunder, the Panthers are now a new-look team.

They lost Guzman to a season-ending injury (get well soon, brother), but have reloaded with some serious weapons:

  • Gabriel Sorenson – aka The Great White Hope, nicknamed after White Men Can’t Jump, but this man can shoot the lights out from downtown.
  • Marquis Cunningham – two-time champion forward from the Hurricanes and one of the most coveted offseason pickups.
  • Lindsey Young – a hungry young baller looking to prove he deserves minutes.
  • Vince Young Jr. – Coach Brads Neal’s favorite, known for his clutch performances with the OW Running Rebels in their first playoff run.
  • Alex Ariola & Kelvin Cumberbatch Jr. – fearless young Griga standouts waived by the Dream Ballers, already showing flashes of promise.

And did I mention? They’re at home. First two home games. New energy. New roster. New fire.

So can the Panthers extinguish the blazing Suns? Can they bring that same energy Corozal just unleashed up north to their own fans and flip the script?

Stay tuned.

Because this is the BPBL Jungle—and around here, even an injured panther can eat your playoff hopes alive.

BY: Coach jamel wagner

BPBL Power Ranking – Week 3

BPBL Power ranking

Week 3

BPBL Power Rankings – Week 3
When the Dust Settles

Two weeks in, and the league has officially flipped on its head. Last week’s juggernauts were humbled. Underdogs roared. And the gap between contender and pretender? It’s getting harder to define.

The San Pedro Tiger Sharks defended their throne with poise, but it’s the rising tide from Dangriga and Cayo that’s applying pressure from below. The Cerros Suns shocked the basketball world with a thunder-stealing win over Belize City, while the Kings showed flashes of royalty but still search for rhythm. And down south, the PG Panthers may be last on the list—but they’re stacking talent and sharpening claws for what could be a midseason breakout.

Week 3 isn’t just about standings. It’s about identity. Who are the real title threats? Who’s still adjusting? And who’s running out of time?

Let’s break it all down—team by team, trend by trend.

 

7. Punta Gorda Panthers-Toucan

The Panthers took a thunderous blow in Week 1—a 50-point rout at the hands of the Belize City Thunderbolts that had many writing them off immediately. But in the BPBL jungle, things change fast. The arrival of new GM Alex Carcamo has injected life and vision into this fledgling franchise, and just like that, the Panthers are no longer limping—they’re lurking.

Injuries and absences initially derailed their momentum. Star forward Jonathan Guzman suffered a significant injury in their debut, and highly anticipated Daniel Estes never took the floor. But credit to the front office: they didn’t waste time. PG filled gaps with American forward Gabriel Sorensen, signed Alex Areola and U21 prospect Kelvin Cumberbatch off waivers, and just this week welcomed Belizean-American center Marquise Cunningham. Though not eligible to play until Week 4, these roster additions are a stroke of genius and give the Panthers instant depth. Suddenly, this roster looks formidable.

Their weekend clash with the Cerros Suns could be a pivot point. Win both, and they’re 2–1 with momentum. Split, and they stay in the hunt. Get swept? It’s back to the drawing board—and that board may not survive another fold. The stakes couldn’t be higher.

For now, PG sits at the bottom of the rankings, but don’t be fooled—the talent is there. If this squad gels, they won’t stay in the basement for long. All eyes on the jungle’s deep south this weekend. It’s ride or die in Punta Gorda.

6. corozal cerros suns-Toucan

The Corozal Cerros Suns shocked the league and flipped the script in Week 3, taking down the mighty Belize City Thunderbolts 62–60 in one of the most stunning upsets of the season. After a rough opener against San Pedro, the Suns regrouped, reloaded, and refused to be intimidated. Their scrappy effort, led by Greg “Chippy” Rudon’s gritty floor leadership and Jamaal Clifton’s jaw-dropping 31+ efficiency performance, gave Corozal fans a taste of what’s possible in this inaugural season.

Suddenly, Andres Campus Stadium is looking like a dangerous road trip. The youngest team in the league has found belief, and their next test is a huge one: a two-game series against the PG Panthers. A split would be progress—but a sweep? That could catapult the Suns into serious playoff contention.

What they lack in polish, they make up for in passion. Greg Rudon, Ray “Uncle” Cruz, and sharpshooter Brandon Rogers are giving this team identity, while Head Coach Rupert Brown’s developmental focus is beginning to pay early dividends. Nerves and turnovers haunted them early, but those ghosts seemed to disappear under the bright lights of their upset win.

The confidence is growing, the chemistry is building, and the opportunity is real. A 3–1 start would put the entire BPBL on notice. Don’t sleep on these Suns—they’re heating up.

5. Belmopan Capital City Kings - Mayan

Two weeks of preparation proved insufficient for the Capital City Kings, who were exposed in key areas during their Week 3 matchup with the Cayo Western Ballers. Cayo’s speed, length, and ball pressure uncovered two major issues for the Kings: a weak interior presence and inconsistent guard play. That second-half surge by the Ballers turned a close game into a decisive loss for Belmopan.

In response, the Kings made what could be a season-defining move—signing Daniel Estes. With his unique blend of strength, physicality, and explosive athleticism, Estes brings the type of interior muscle that could counter the likes of Hammer Milton and Malik Hunt. It’s the kind of addition that shifts energy and expectation. Suddenly, John Kelly has help. Suddenly, the Mayan Conference has a new wild card.

The Kings’ lone consistent bright spot continues to be Brandon Flowers, who led a solo fourth-quarter charge to cut the deficit to just five. And while Nissani Mendez showed flashes of becoming a two-way spark off the bench—scoring 9 in the first half and providing ball-handling relief—he also reminded everyone he’s still a rookie, with questionable shot selection and untimely turnovers. Jayden Lopez remains quiet, and Z. Pratt has yet to find his role in this evolving offense.

With Estes now anchoring the middle, the pieces may finally be in place for Head Coach Merte Williams to craft a balanced and competitive unit. The race to the bottom is real—but so is the potential for a turnaround. Friday night’s home game against a reeling Thunderbolts team could be a launching pad, or a deeper slide.

Either way, Belmopan now has a chance to redefine their season. Let’s see if they take it.

             4. Belize city thunderbolts – mayan

The Thunderbolts take the biggest hit in this week’s rankings, falling two spots after a stunning two-point loss to the previously winless Corozal Cerros Suns. Missing three starters and their top bench scorer, the Bolts looked a shell of their usual high-octane selves, putting up just 60 points—the first time all season they’ve failed to crack triple digits.

It was a sobering performance for a team that came into the year with championship expectations. Whether they underestimated the Suns or simply suffered from rotation issues and absences, one thing became clear: the Thunderbolts’ margin for error is much slimmer than it seemed. The depth and continuity that once looked like their biggest strength now feel uncertain.

Following back-to-back losses, the Bolts released center Larry Johnson, signaling a clear intent to upgrade their interior defense—especially with James “Hammer” Milton looming large in Griga. Their interior weakness was again on display against San Pedro, where they were repeatedly punished in the paint and on the boards.

Even with Coope Lopez and Victor Evans putting up 20+ nights consistently, it’s no longer enough. They’ll need answers, fast. Michael Caseras has shown flashes as a future star, but the physicality required for frontcourt matchups at this level may be a year or two away.

This Friday, the Thunderbolts travel to Belmopan in what feels like a “must-win” for both teams—each sitting on a two-game skid and desperate for momentum. The Bolts need to bounce back not just with a win, but with a performance that reassures fans and rivals that they’re still a serious threat.

Let’s see which version of the Thunderbolts shows up—and who steps into Larry Johnson’s spot.

3. Cayo Western Ballers - Mayan

The Western Ballers bounced back in Week 3 with a convincing road win over the Belmopan Capital City Kings, climbing into the third spot in the Power Rankings. It wasn’t pretty early—the Kings came out determined to avoid another first-half collapse and held a slim lead at halftime. But the second half was all Cayo.

Arik Nicholas and Dennis Flowers III turned up the pressure, forcing turnover after turnover and igniting a fast-break clinic that left Belmopan reeling. Nicholas in particular looked every bit the leader this young Cayo squad needs—unshaken, explosive, and locked in. His four dunks were punctuation marks on a performance that justified his preseason hype.

Still, Cayo’s ceiling remains a question. Their struggles against Griga in Week 2 exposed their need for size and consistency in the paint. Darnell Oden, dominant in the season opener, was nowhere to be found in that loss. Flowers, while electric, will need to find ways to remain effective when defenses lock in.

Not convinced they have the firepower they need, the Ballers released American big man Anthony Howell this week and are actively searching for a frontcourt replacement—perhaps someone capable of matching up with the league’s emerging giants like Hammer Milton. With a week to regroup, we’ll see what they pull out of the hat.

The Western Ballers have the youth, athleticism, and raw talent. But road wins like this one will need to become the norm if they hope to survive the Mayan Conference gauntlet, where Evans, Coope Lopez, and Eyan Rene are waiting.

This was a step forward. Let’s see if they can keep climbing.

2. Dangriga Dream Ballers - Toucan

The Dream Ballers didn’t even lace up this past week, yet they still moved up a spot in the rankings—and rightfully so. Their dominant dismantling of the Cayo Western Ballers in Week 2 continues to ripple through the league, and their upcoming clash with the Tiger Sharks already feels like a title fight.

With a week off, Griga has used the time wisely—building chemistry, tightening rotations, and integrating new weapons into an already potent arsenal. James “Hammer” Milton, fresh off his 32-point, 13-rebound explosion, has been a revelation in his second act, while Quinton Bowen and Antonio Flowers give the frontcourt more bite than it’s had in years. This isn’t just a bounce-back team—it’s a rebuilt, retooled unit with its eyes on the top.

The south’s only GM, RAN, has made moves that are bearing fruit fast. Brackett is in rhythm. Conorque is finding form. The rest of the core—Boogie Mitchell, Raheem Thurton, Kevon Lourie—has settled in. What’s left to prove? That they can do it on the road. Playing in Griga is a nightmare for visitors, but the true test of championship mettle is performing away from your fortress.

A win this weekend would shake up the entire league and cement Griga as the top team in the BPBL. But if they want to convince everyone—not just claim the spot—they’ll need to dominate, not just survive.

This one’s for all the early-season bragging rights.

1. San Pedro Tiger Sharks-Toucan

The Tiger Sharks hold firm at the top of the Week 3 Power Rankings after putting away the previously undefeated Belize City Thunderbolts. But the target on their backs just got bigger—and it’s now painted in Griga green and gold. With a surging Dangriga Dream Ballers team on the horizon, the Sharks will need to prove once again that they’re built for the big stage.

General manager Rico Black continues to prove that he’s not just a tactician, but an architect. His blueprint, built around performance over popularity, has delivered again. The Sharks’ masterstroke came in the form of reinforcements—none bigger than former MVP Jehad Wright and the Hon. Minister of Buckets, Devin Daly. With these two on the floor, San Pedro’s offense has gone from dangerous to devastating.

Their statement win over the Thunderbolts was led by that lethal duo, plus steady contributions from Brian White, who dropped 23 rebounds, and Arana and Malik Hunt, who added finesse and power in the backcourt. Leggy Griffin continues to grind in the paint, making the Sharks one of the most well-rounded teams in the league.

But they’re not untouchable. Despite the victory, they surrendered 101 points—proof that their defense, while gritty, still has holes. And now, waiting in the wings, are the Dream Ballers. Fresh off knocking off last week’s number one Cayo Western Ballaz, Griga is armed with the newly dubbed “Hammer of Thor,” a resurgent Brackett, and a slowly reawakening Conorquie. They’ve had two full weeks to prepare. All eyes now turn to Dangriga for what could be the early game of the year.

For now, the Sharks swim alone at the top. But the waters ahead are getting rougher.

By The GM