Prison Basketball League Concludes with Team Echo Securing Championship Title

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.