GBF announce final 12 for Suriname ‘Nations Cup’ tournament

Following four days of gruelling trials conducted at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), Guyana’s senior national men’s basketball team has finally been selected.
Head coach Adrian Hooper and assistant coach Marlon Rodrigues had assembled some of the country’s top basketball talents to contend in a highly competitive environment; and now that particular players have been selected for their outstanding performances, the team is set to depart for Paramaribo on Thursday, January 23, to participate in back-to-back matches against Grenada and Suriname on January 24, 25 and 26. The team is scheduled to return to Guyana on Monday, January 27.
The players selected are: Stanton Rose, Domair Gladstone and Kimol Grimmond of the Kwakwani Untouchables; Travis Belgrave, Denzil Ross and Zian Gray of the Eagles; Orlan Glasgow and Harold Adams of the Royals; Shane Webster and Oquacey Shortt of the Colts; Nikkoloi Smith of the Ravens, and Jermaine Slater of the Kobras.
Describing the selection process as exceptionally challenging due to the sheer level of talent displayed during the trials, Coach Hooper has said, “It was a difficult task to narrow the team down, as many players proved they were worthy of consideration.”
He nevertheless emphasized that this team is a perfect blend of seasoned veterans and promising youngsters, and has said that young player Kimol Grimmond has started making strides in adjusting to the rigours of international basketball.
“The team we’ve selected is more than capable of representing Guyana with distinction,” Hooper confidently expressed. “We have the talent, chemistry and determination to win this tournament.”

This well-rounded team, which features players from some of Guyana’s top clubs, has demonstrated its readiness to compete on the international stage, according to Coach Hooper, who has extended gratitude to the Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) for entrusting him with the opportunity to lead the team. “It’s always an honour to guide this team into action. I’m looking forward to more international basketball opportunities in the future,” Hooper has said.
Offering words of encouragement to the players who have not been selected, Hooper has said, “Keep working hard and showing improvement through your participation in the ongoing One Guyana Premier League tournament. Your time will come.”
GBF President Michael Singh, in expressing excitement at this team’s participation in the tournament in Suriname, has said, “We’re looking forward to seeing the team compete and showcase their skills. This tournament is an excellent opportunity for us to measure the depth of talent available locally as we gear up for a busy 2025 on the regional and international basketball scenes.”
He also commended Coach Hooper and Assistant Coach Rodrigues for their dedication in preparing and selecting the team.
The tournament in Suriname promises to be pivotal for Guyana’s basketball programme, according to Singh, who believes that a strong showing is inevitable from a team that combines skill, experience and youthful energy.