Spanish Heat claimed the 2024 Division 2 playoffs finals title. (Photo courtesy ABBA)
By Neto Baptiste
Spanish Heat proved too much for Rebels in their best of five playoffs finals, winning a third straight game on Tuesday night by a 93-68 margin, to sweep their opponents and claim the coveted Antigua and Barbuda Basketball Association’s (ABBA) title at the JSC basketball complex.
Spanish Heat dominated three of four quarters, claiming the opening period 24-10 to jump out to a huge 14-point lead. Rebels gained some momentum in the second quarter to outscore Spanish Heat 26-20, but Heat was just too hot to handle, taking the third and fourth quarters, 27-16 and 22-16 respectively.
Ismael Palemo led the charge for Spanish Heat with 22 points, nine rebounds and four assists. He had help from Jesus Emmanuel who picked up 20 points and nine rebounds. There were contributions of 15 and 12 points respectively from Wilkin Floyd and Kevin Pimental who had 15 and 12 points respectively. Floyd also grabbed 12 rebounds and dished out six assists.
In a losing effort, Zuri Nesbitt top-scored for Rebels with 17 points, while also picking up eight assists. He was helped by Ryan Noel with 14 points, 10 rebounds and four assists, while Kirwan Peterson sank 11 points and grabbed five rebounds.