Panthers finish Hoops Classic undefeated

Claflin and Delaware State celebrate after all-star wins.

Claflin University and Delaware State University made it a clean sweep, with both teams going 3-0 in the Trinidad & Tobago “Hoops Classic.” The U.S. did what the tournament was envisioned to do: to showcase basketball in Trinidad & Tobago where basketball is in its infancy.

 

The final games were all-star games, as Delaware State and Claflin University combined into two teams to go against an all-star line-up from Trinidad & Tobago. Preston Johnson, Jonathan Durant, Eric Salley and Dominic Johnson represented Claflin University on the “A” American all-star team.

 

The USA Team “A” defeated the “A” all-star team from Trinidad and Tobago, 92-75. Eric Salley led the Claflin All-Stars with 14 points. Preston Johnson scored eight points. Jonathan Durant contributed four points while Dominic Johnson added two points.

 

USA Team “B” all-stars from Claflin University consisted of Teddy Spence, Phillip Brown, Ernest Sinkfield, and Karl Ray. The second all-star game was the closest game in the tournament. The hometown crowd cheered their team on, but the Americans came away with a 91-90 victory over the “B” all-star team from Trinidad & Tobago.

 

Karl Ray lead the Claflin “B” all-stars with a team-high 16 points. Phillip Brown scored nine points. Ernest Sinkfield chippen in eight points and Teddy Spence collected four points.

 

The all-star games concluded a week-long of basketball exhibitions. Many of the native fans were heard saying how exciting basketball is to watch. They also were amazed that Claflin appeared to be the smallest of all the teams in terms of height, but managed to win all three of their games. One of the coaches of the Trinidad all-star team said that his team needed to learn to “play more of a team oriented game. Individually we are just as talented.” 

 

The Panthers will be returning home Sunday, with a wealth of experiences, new friends and memories of this tournament. Thank you Albert Cozier-Lee Young, Mario Davis, Mr. and Mrs. Ramlal and Trinidad and Tobago for inviting us and being such gracious hosts. 

 

Dr. Lionell Sabb, Sports Information Director