The semifinals of the Under-19 Boys’ Schools Basketball Tournament, held at the Beausejour Gymnasium on October 30, feature a mix of familiar faces and new contenders. Organized by the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, with support from the Ministry of Education and the Saint Lucia Basketball Federation, the tournament has reached its critical stage. Defending champions Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC) advanced by default after Micoud Secondary School failed to appear. Joining them are three-time losing finalists Soufrière Comprehensive Secondary School (SCSS) and last year’s fourth-placed team, St Mary’s College (SMC).
Castries Comprehensive Secondary School (CCSS) emerged as a new force, replacing 2024 bronze medallists Patricia D James Secondary School. CCSS secured their semifinal spot by winning three of their five preliminary games and defeating Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School (VFCSS) 64-38 in the quarterfinals. Meshach Du Boulay was instrumental in CCSS’s victory, scoring 24 points, including three three-pointers, and adding 10 rebounds, seven steals, and seven assists. David Chandler contributed 19 points and nine rebounds.
For VFCSS, Josan Henry led with 11 points, 10 rebounds, and six steals, while Chris Cyrilon added 10 points and 14 rebounds. CCSS’s physical education teacher, Brandon Clauzel, highlighted the team’s strategy, emphasizing the addition of Meshach Du Boulay and the coaching assistance of Simeon Hippolyte.
In the semifinals, CCSS will face SCSS on November 4. SCSS advanced by defeating Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary School 48-38, with Curden Jones leading the charge with 26 points, 15 rebounds, four steals, and three blocks. Meanwhile, SMC secured their semifinal spot by overcoming Corinth Secondary Schools 46-37, with Neezan Lewis delivering a double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds. The semifinals will take place at the Beausejour Gymnasium, promising thrilling matchups as teams vie for a place in the finals.