P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy Jamaica Makes Historic Debut at MADE Hoops Challenger Circuit

Bermuda Run, NC – April 2025

This past weekend marked a monumental step in Jamaican youth basketball history as P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy Jamaica made its first-ever appearance at the MADE Hoops Challenger Circuit, tipping off at the North Carolina Clash in Bermuda Run. Competing against some of the top grassroots programs in the U.S., P.H.A.S.E. 1 brought multiple teams from the Classes of 2025–2030, showcasing over 40 young Jamaican and international athletes hungry to prove themselves on the big stage.

The weekend was filled with competitive action, breakout performances, and invaluable experience for the teams — all part of the Academy’s mission to make Jamaica a global hub for basketball.

U15 & U17 Teams Show Promise

Despite facing high-level opponents and entering the event as newcomers, P.H.A.S.E. 1 teams held their own. The U15 squad (Class of 2028–2030) picked up a strong win over MOT Evolution, led by Kamar Evans who posted a dominant 15pts, 7rbs, 7blks performance. Rushawn Evans (17pts) and Anthony Ingleton (9pts) also emerged as key contributors.

The U17 team (Class of 2025–2027) grabbed their first MADE Hoops win with a gritty 43–35 victory over THRY, paced by a double-double from Keith Smith (11pts, 12rbs) and all-around efforts from Jonathan Weir and Dwain Cummings.

Across all games, players demonstrated resilience, growth, and high-level potential — qualities that P.H.A.S.E. 1 continues to develop through structured training and international exposure.

Opportunity Beyond the Scoreboard

While wins and losses are part of the journey, the real victory was access and opportunity.

“This experience was life-changing,” said Rushawn Evans, Class of 2029 point guard. “Just being able to compete against elite talent and represent Jamaica on this stage makes me want to keep working harder.”

For many players, it was their first exposure to U.S. circuits, college scouts, and the culture of elite grassroots basketball. Competing in MADE Hoops helps bridge the gap between Jamaica’s rising talent and the global basketball community.

A Step Toward Global Recognition

“This is just the beginning,” said Wayne Dawkins, Global Director of P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy. “We’re not just here to play — we’re here to create sustainable pathways for Jamaican youth to reach the next level, whether that’s college, pro, or national team opportunities.”

Coach Dawkins emphasized that the program’s expansion to international circuits like MADE Hoops is part of a long-term plan to amplify Jamaica’s basketball ecosystem and position it as a serious contributor to global talent development.

What’s Next?

P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy Jamaica is just getting started on the MADE Hoops tour. The next stops include:

📍 Boston: May 3–4📍 Philadelphia: May 9–10📍 Baltimore LIVE Period: May 16–18

Each stop will introduce more players, more stories, and more opportunities for exposure and growth.

The Mission Continues

As P.H.A.S.E. 1 continues to break barriers and raise the bar for Jamaican basketball, one thing is clear — this isn’t just about competing. It’s about building a legacy, transforming communities, and giving young athletes from Jamaica a platform to shine on the world stage.

Stay tuned as the journey continues — next stop: Boston.

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