PHILIPSBURG--Island Hoops hosted the second round of games in the National Qualifiers this past Saturday. Six teams faced off against each other in the tournament and in the end, team “The Last of Us” won it all, remaining undefeated over two weeks of play. The team comprises David Labardy (tournament’s most outstanding player), Isaiah Ratchel and Aman Goswami. They will represent St. Maarten in the Antilles IBF 3x3 Hoops Championship in 2018.
Considered to be the number one urban team sport in the world, 3x3 basketball is increasingly becoming a key motor for the development of basketball. One of the biggest strengths of 3x3 is its simplicity both in terms of rules and in terms of required facilities, allowing it to be held in the most spectacular settings, using iconic landmarks as backdrops, and the backdrop of the St. Rose Arcade on the Boardwalk provided onlookers with a picturesque view of the action.
During this tournament, Island Hoops in collaboration with Art Saves Lives Foundation coordinated a large giveaway of athletic gear donated by National Basketball Association (NBA) Star Tim Hardaway Jr.
Integrated Health & Rehab, Principal Accounting & Consulting Services, Altus and title sponsor Computech helped make the event successful.
Island Hoops is committed to establishing St. Maarten as a top Caribbean contender in, as well as destination for 3x3 basketball. Island Hoops plans to introduce more games and age groups in 2018.