Jamaica’s Men’s National Basketball Team has stunned the region with back-to-back wins over Puerto Rico in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifiers, both secured on Puerto Rican soil.
In the first game of the two-match series, Jamaica edged Puerto Rico 92–90 at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente, ending Puerto Rico’s four-game winning streak and earning Jamaica’s first-ever victory in FIBA World Cup qualifying. The team followed up with a 97–92 win to complete the sweep, proving that their historic breakthrough was no fluke.
Ranked 95th in the world, Jamaica is competing at this stage for the first time and now sits atop Group B. The team will now prepare to host two home games versus The Bahamas and Canada on February 26, 2026 and March 1, 2026 in Kingston.
Road Wins Build Momentum
Jamaica’s victories came after the team surrendered home-court advantage because at the time the National Indoor Sports Centre and the Montego Bay Convention Centre did not meet approval. Despite this, Jamaica took control early in both games. Their defensive effort late in the second match helped secure the win after Puerto Rico closed the gap to three points in the final minute.
Jamaica had strong scoring support across the roster. The team also showed control on the boards and in the paint, opening up a 20-point lead at one stage in Game Two. Jamaica and Canada now share the top of the standings with four points each.
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Key Performances Fuel Success
Across the two games, Jamaica’s players delivered steady contributions. Rebounding, second-chance points, and defensive pressure were important factors in both wins. Jamaica forced turnovers at key moments, created scoring opportunities, and held strong against Puerto Rico’s late push.
The team’s efficiency from the floor and inside scoring helped them stay ahead through most of the second halves. Jamaica’s defensive stops in the final seconds of Game Two secured their second victory and positioned them as a real contender in the group.
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Historic Window for Jamaica
Jamaica’s recent victories marks a genuine resurgence for the national basketball programme. After years outside major FIBA qualifiers, the programme has returned with stronger organisation, renewed interest from fans, and growing international attention. This moment represents the most promising upward shift in the programme in more than a decade.
A major force behind this progress is the calibre of players now representing Jamaica. The inclusion of high-profile overseas professionals, including NBA champion Norman Powell and standout centre Kofi Cockburn whose presence has significantly increased visibility and credibility on the global stage. Their presence, along with contributions from other international pros and collegiate athletes, has strengthened the roster and elevated Jamaica’s competitiveness. This expanded talent pool has made the team deeper, more dynamic, and better equipped for international play.
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Structural Improvements and Off-Court Support
The programme’s rise is also supported by meaningful structural changes. Training camps in the United States, broader scouting networks, and renewed leadership have created a more organised pathway for identifying, preparing, and integrating talent from both Jamaica and the diaspora.
Support from Cedella Marley, the Bob Marley Foundation, and the Rita Marley Foundation has played an important role in rebuilding the programme. Cedella’s longstanding commitment to Jamaican sports — strengthened by her son’s passion for basketball — has brought new structure, resources, and visibility. Her involvement has enhanced logistics, promotion, and training support, helping stabilise the programme at a crucial time.
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Looking Ahead
As Jamaica prepares to host two home games at the National Indoor Sports Centre in Kingston next year, the priority now is turnout. If we want this resurgence to continue, the players need to see and feel that support.
We are encouraging Jamaicans at home and abroad and friends of Jamaica or just anyone who loves basketball to show up, back the team, and spend time in the city while you’re here. It’s a simple way to support the team and the country at a time when Jamaica is still recovering from Hurricane Melissa. Every tourism dollar helps.
Stay connected by following Basketball Jamaica on social media, you can also support the team directly by purchasing official team merchandise on their website.
