SHAD THOMAS LED the Vincentian effort as the leading scorer for his third game
Sports
July 14, 2026
St Vincent and the Grenadines’ senior national Basketball team placed third in the FIBA AmeriCup 2029 Caribbean Pre-Qualifiers, held from July 8-12, 2026 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in Georgetown, Guyana.
The St.Vincent and the Grenadines Basketball Federation (SVGBF) congratulates the Men’s Senior N The Vincentians recorded two wins but lost their two final games, a release from the SVG Basketball Federation (SVGBF) states.
Team SVG opened the tournament with a 85-66 victory over Grenada, followed by a commanding 96-63 win against the Cayman Islands, but suffered a heavy defeat to Haiti (10066), and lost to Barbados (96-84).
Barbados, which came away in the number one position, played unbeaten in the tournament.
The final Group B standings are: 1-Barbados; 2-Haiti; 3-St. Vincent and the Grenadines; 4-Cayman Islands and 5-Grenada.
In the final game against Barbados, rookie Shad Thomas led the Vincentian effort as the leading scorer for his third game, finishing with 16 points, eight rebounds, five assists and three steals. Fresh off signing his first professional basketball contract (2026-2027) with Bisbal Bàsquet in Spain following the conclusion of his collegiate career, Thomas showcased why he is regarded as one of St.
Vincent and the Grenadines’ most promising talents.
The Federation is profuse in its congratulations and recognition for the team, its coaching unit, management and supporting staff, sponsors, the government of SVG and others who
assisted in the team’s participation in the tournament.
It has extended its deepest appreciation to captain, Chrisford Telesford, Phillip Lawrence-Ricks and Sean Baptiste, who will retire as national players.
Telesford and Lawrence-Ricks have represented the national team since 2018, the SVGBF said, while Baptiste has proudly worn the SVG colours since 2011.
“Their leadership, commitment and experience have left an indelible mark on the country.The Federation also looks forward to keeping them involved in the continued development of basketball in St. Vincent and the Grenadines through various coaching, mentorship and player development programmes, ensuring their knowledge and experience continue to benefit future national teams,” the release also states.
“While the journey to qualification has come to an end, the executive remains proud of the team’s performance and the resilience displayed throughout the competition.The experience gained will serve as a foundation for continued growth as the SVGBF remains committed to developing the sport and creating more opportunities for Vincentian basketball.”
