Minister of State and President of the Antigua and Barbuda Basketball Association (ABBA), Michael Freeland, has praised the national senior men’s basketball team after the Bulldogs secured a place in the next round of the FIBA AmeriCup Qualifiers with a commanding victory over the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Bulldogs sealed top spot in Group A on Sunday night in Guyana with an emphatic 86-57 win, finishing the qualifying stage with an impressive 3-1 record and booking their place in the second round of the continental competition.

Describing the achievement as a proud moment for the nation, Freeland commended the players, coaching staff, Government and private sector partners whose support helped make the campaign possible.

“What a moment for our country and our team. Congratulations to the Bulldogs! Special thank you to the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, all of our private donors, the Executive and the planning committee who made this trip possible as well. This victory is for all of us,” Freeland said.

Michael Freeland, Minister of State and President of the Antigua and Barbuda Basketball Association (ABBA)

Antigua and Barbuda now joins Barbados in advancing from the Caribbean qualifying groups and will compete in the second round, scheduled for November 23 to December 1.

The Bulldogs are expected to face regional and international competition, including Nicaragua, Venezuela, Jamaica, Cuba and Costa Rica, with one South American representative still to be determined. A host nation has not yet been announced.

ABBA General Secretary Carlena Knight-Humphreys also praised the team’s determination throughout the campaign and expressed gratitude to the Government and private sponsors for backing the national squad.

“First off, congratulations to my team, the players, coaching staff and the other officials. We did it! Thank you all for your hard work and dedication. I also must thank the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and all our private partners who ensured we got to Guyana. What a journey it has been up to this point but while the celebrations will continue, we look ahead to the next round of games and we hope that many others will come on board and support the team for this next chapter,” she said.

The Bulldogs are scheduled to return to Antigua on Monday as the team begins preparations for the next phase of the FIBA AmeriCup Qualifiers.