In a display of relentless determination, Trinidad and Tobago’s national men’s basketball team concluded their FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup campaign in León, Mexico, over the weekend with two narrow defeats that eliminated them from knockout stage contention. The four-man squad, featuring Chike Augustine, Tyrik Singh, and the Boyd brothers—Akheel ‘Smally’ Boyd and Ahkeem ‘Fato’ Boyd—fought vigorously in Pool C but ultimately fell short against formidable North and South American opponents.
The team’s opening match on November 28 saw a hard-fought 21-16 loss to Canada, followed by an equally intense 21-17 defeat against Argentina later that same day. Ahkeem Boyd emerged as a standout performer against Argentina, delivering a game-high ten points with remarkable accuracy from beyond the arc, sinking four of six two-point attempts. His offensive prowess kept Trinidad and Tobago competitive throughout the contest, while brother Akheel contributed six points despite struggling from perimeter range.
Facing elimination, Trinidad and Tobago opened strong against Argentina, establishing an early 4-0 lead within the first ninety seconds courtesy of baskets from Ahkeem Boyd and Augustine. The team continued to maintain momentum, reaching ten points first and extending their advantage to 12-7 when Ahkeem connected on his third two-pointer. However, Argentina’s balanced attack—led by Juan Fernandez (7 points), Alejo Maggi (6 points), and Martin Molina (5 points)—methodically closed the gap, tying the game at 12-12 before eventually seizing control in the final minutes.
With the score knotted at 17-17 and under two minutes remaining, Argentina executed a decisive finish. Molina converted two critical free throws to establish a 19-17 lead, before Santino Mazzucchelli sealed the victory with consecutive baskets, ending Trinidad and Tobago’s tournament hopes.
Canada and Argentina advanced from Pool C, with Canada ultimately progressing to the semifinals. Argentina was eliminated in the quarterfinals by the United States, who claimed both the men’s and women’s championships with a dominant 21-14 victory.