USVI Women's Basketball Team Celebrates Historic Gold Medal Victory at 2023 Central American and Caribbean Games; Welcome Home Event Planned

The V.I. Basketball Federation has planned a grand welcome reception for the triumphant V.I. Senior Women National Team. The event is set to take place on tonight at 9:00 p.m. at the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport.

The celebration follows their astounding achievement of winning the gold medal in women's basketball at the 2023 Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games held in San Salvador, El Salvador Wednesday night. The team showcased a performance like never before, bringing pride and glory to the Virgin Islands.

The team was guided by the expert hands of St. Croix-born coaches Tajama Abraham-Ngongba and Clint Williams. Alongside them, LaReina Robinson and Jalani Horton provided exceptional support as staff.

The Virgin Islands' team (4-1) clinched the gold after defeating the Dominican Republic (4-0) 76-72 in a thrilling final game, according to information provided to the Consortium by the federation. Standout performances included Anisha George's impressive 26 points and 10 rebounds, Imani Tate's contribution of 18 points, 9 rebounds, and Natalie Kleeman-Day's 12 points and 5 rebounds.

The road to victory was not without challenges. The team faced a temporary setback with a loss to the 35th ranked team during pool play, with a score of 96-84 in overtime. However, they showed their mettle by subsequently securing a victory against the 10th ranked Puerto Rico squad, with a razor-thin margin of 61-60 in the semifinal contest.