Team USVI has withdrawn from the third-place match at the King of the Courts tournament following a disputed officiating decision in their semi-final against Team Tola, in which a final-seconds shot was ruled a 3-pointer instead of a 4-pointer.

The decision stems from a play with three seconds remaining in regulation. The shot was initially scored as three points by officials. However, after the match, video footage showed the shooter’s feet were behind the 4-point line.

“There was a controversial call involving a shot initially ruled a 3-pointer on the court,” tournament organisers stated. “After the game, video footage surfaced showing that the shot was, in fact, a 4-pointer.”

Despite the post-game evidence, the tournament’s existing rules do not permit video review or reversal of calls. “Unfortunately, King of the Courts does not utilise video review for officiating decisions, and the tournament director does not intervene in referee rulings made during the game,” the statement said.

“Under the current rules, the decision made on the court stands and cannot be changed post-game,” organisers confirmed.

Referees involved in the game have issued apologies to Team USVI. “Our referees have performed commendably throughout the tournament and have personally expressed their apologies to Team USVI for what transpired.”

In the same statement, King of the Courts referenced the challenges faced in basketball officiating. “Even in leagues like the NBA, where video review is available, controversial calls still occur.”

Organisers also stated they will review procedures going forward. “We will explore potential solutions to better address situations like this and ensure continued fairness and transparency in the competition.”

As a result of Team USVI’s withdrawal, St. Kitts — which finished third in its group — will play in the third-place match.

The Virgin Islands took a step closer to the 2026 Commonwealth Games today as local artist Desiree Smith officially handed over the King’s Baton to Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley during a courtesy call at the Premier’s Office.

The handcrafted baton, made from sustainable ash wood and etched with symbols reflecting the Virgin Islands’ culture, environment, and sporting legacy, was commissioned as part of the lead-up to the Queen’s Baton Relay for the Glasgow 2026 Games.

Ephraim Penn, President of Commonwealth Sport British Virgin Islands, joined the Premier and Smith for the brief ceremony, marking the moment as a key milestone in the territory’s participation in the upcoming international event.

The baton now stands as a symbol of the Virgin Islands’ readiness and spirit as the community prepares to take part in the historic relay tradition shared by all Commonwealth nations.

The inaugural Prison Basketball League, an initiative aimed at promoting rehabilitation through sports, concluded this week at His Majesty’s Prison in the British Virgin Islands, with Team Echo claiming the championship title.

In the final matchup, Team Echo defeated Team Charlie 52-39, securing their place at the top. Earlier in the day, Team Bravo clinched third place with a 47-37 win over Charlie Remand.

The league, organized in collaboration with the BVI Amateur Basketball Association, is part of the prison’s broader strategy to support personal development, discipline, and teamwork among inmates.

Lecoy Hughes was named the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) and also led in total rebounds. Rudy Vanterpool topped the scoring charts, earning recognition as the league’s highest point scorer.

Superintendent of Prisons Jay Kendall praised the league’s impact, highlighting the role of sports in the rehabilitation process.

“The success of this basketball league reflects our commitment to creating meaningful and progressive rehabilitation opportunities within our facility,” Mr. Kendall said. “Sports provide an outlet for structure, teamwork, and emotional regulation — all vital components of personal development. I’m incredibly proud of the men who participated and showed resilience, sportsmanship, and determination throughout the tournament.”

Mr. Kendall also extended his gratitude to the prison staff and community partners who supported the initiative, including Riteway Supermarket and One Mart Supermarket.

Meanwhile, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, Minister for Health and Social Development, underscored the significance of such programmes in supporting inmate rehabilitation.

“Rehabilitation must go beyond confinement. It should challenge, inspire, and uplift,” Honourable Wheatley said. “This basketball league represents a progressive and human-centred approach to rehabilitation that gives inmates a sense of purpose and helps them develop critical life skills. I commend the leadership of His Majesty’s Prison for thinking outside the box, and I also thank the BVI Amateur Basketball Association for their partnership and mentorship.”

Prison officials have indicated plans to expand rehabilitation efforts, including additional skill-building workshops and mentorship programmes aimed at preparing inmates for successful reintegration into society.