In a spectacular opening to their FIBA Basketball World Cup Americas Qualifiers campaign, Jamaica’s national team delivered a monumental upset by defeating world No. 16 Puerto Rico 92-90 on their home court. The stunning victory was spearheaded by an extraordinary debut performance from center Kofi Cockburn, who dominated with 26 points and 15 rebounds.
The 26-year-old Hiroshima Dragonflies player orchestrated a masterful performance, receiving crucial support from Tyran De Lattibeaudiere’s 15-point contribution. Jamaica demonstrated exceptional team depth with six players reaching double digits—Andrew Thelwell (12 points), alongside Kenton Facey, Romaine Thomas and Chase Audige (11 points each).
Despite Puerto Rico’s strong efforts led by Christopher Ortiz (17 points), Gian Clavell (14 points) and Zakai Zeigler (13 points), Jamaica’s transformative third quarter proved decisive. After trailing 57-52 at halftime, the Jamaican squad unleashed a 24-11 third-quarter run to establish a 76-68 advantage that they maintained through Puerto Rico’s fourth-quarter rally.
Jamaica Basketball Association President Paulton Gordon celebrated the historic victory, emphasizing the team’s resilience in a “hostile environment” and their determination to uplift national spirits following Hurricane Melissa’s devastation. The 95th-ranked Jamaican team now looks ahead to Group B matches against The Bahamas and Canada as they pursue qualification for the 2027 FIBA World Cup.