Fatima take RBC Royal Slam basketball crown

Fatima College emerged victorious at the first-ever RBC Royal Slam College’s Basketball Tournament, held on November 9 at the Eastern Regional Indoor Sporting Arena in Tacarigua. In a high-energy championship final, Fatima dominated St Mary’s College with a decisive 122-84 victory, showcasing exceptional teamwork and defensive prowess. The team’s ‘Big Three’—William Francis, Zachary Julien, and Idriis Martin—led the charge, delivering standout performances that left fans in awe. Francis achieved a remarkable triple-double with 28 points, 13 rebounds, 12 steals, seven assists, and three blocks, while Julien topped the scoring charts with 32 points. Martin also shone brightly, contributing 24 points and seven steals. Despite a valiant effort from St Mary’s Nkobi Ince, who scored 32 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists, his team fell short. In the third-place playoff, Presentation College San Fernando secured a hard-fought 85-77 win over Queen’s Royal College, thanks to Michael McCarthy’s dominant double-double of 28 points and 24 rebounds. McCarthy’s stellar performance earned him the Tournament MVP award, while Francis was named Finals MVP. The event also featured electrifying halftime performances by the Studio 7 Spartans cheerleaders, adding to the festive atmosphere. The tournament concluded with a celebration of individual excellence, as players like Julien, Martin, Ince, and McCarthy were honored in the All-Star 5 lineup, alongside awards for best defensive player, most promising player, and more.