By Neto Baptiste
The Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board were crowned champions of the 2019 Cool & Smooth Business League Basketball Playoffs on Saturday night, following an exciting five points triumph over Kennedy’s in the third and final contest of a three-game playoff finals at the JSC basketball complex.
Led by veteran Marlon Charles who sank 23 points, Transport Board’s 62-57 victory over Kennedy’s was the climax of a 2-1 series win over their rivals and completed their dominance of this year’s tournament after having also captured the league title. It is also the second consecutive playoff triumph for Transport Board.
There were contributions of 13 and 12 points, respectively, from Bryan Matthew and Kareem Edwards in the winning cause, while Xavier Meade led Kennedy’s efforts with 21 points. Adriel Ramirez and Warren Bogle had 13 and 10 points each for Kennedy’s.
Saturday night climaxed with the hosting of the awards and presentation ceremony during which a number of players and officials were awarded for outstanding performances.
Transport Board’s Edwards was rewarded for having the highest score in a game — 52 points against Galley Bay — with the most overall points going to his teammate, Matthew, who amassed 391 points throughout the league and playoff.
Edwards also won the most outstanding player award while Matthew was league MVP.
Jamie Harris of APUA Head Office racked up the most blocks while the award for the most three pointers was shared between Steadroy Graham and Doyle Carter, both of Area 51. A Mobile’s Jeffery George was adjudged most improved player while Tahj Oliver won the people’s choice award.
Charles, of Transport Board, was MVP of the playoff with Wayne Coates, also of Transport Board, taking the coach of the year accolade.
A Mobile was the most spirited team and Galley Bay was most disciplined team.