During the last four years, the National Basketball Federation of Trinidad and Tobago (NBFTT) has produced several young talents that stand out in the United States’ collegiate level, which could eventually mean good news for their national team in the face of future international events.

For example, for the women’s category, Kaila Charles in the University of Maryland, was chosen unanimously this week as part of the first team of the NCAA's Big Ten Conference — the oldest at a collegiate level. Of Trinidadian heritage from her father’s side, the 6-feet, 1-inch shooting guard is currently in her third college year and averages 16 points and 6.4 rebounds, a key contribution for her team, who are currently in their league's first position.

Meanwhile, forward Chervelle Cox, born in Port of Spain, Trinidad, concluded this year an outstanding four-year campaign with Ohio's Central State University, averaging 10.8 points and 8.6 rebounds. The 6’1” player had an exceptional year in 2018, including a match where she scored 27 points and another one where she recovered 19 rebounds.

Cox already represented Trinidad and Tobago in 2014, during the CBC Championship, where she averaged 3.5 points and 4.5 rebounds, and the team were fourth.

As for the men, Chike Augustine, a 6’10” center born in Laventille, used the Caribbean Hoops Camp of 2015 to get to the NCAA. Recently, the defense specialist concluded a respectable college career at Tennessee’s Martin Methodist College, where he captured almost 300 rebounds and made 85 blocks.

“It shouldn't only be in basketball. You must get the most out of any sport. If I can do it, anyone can. You just have to be patient, have faith, and the sky's the limit,” said Augustine to the youth of Trinidad and Tobago.

At a school level, young Joshua Bridgewater has been outstanding during his senior year at Kansas’ Trinity Catholic High School, where he concluded his season with a 22-4 record. Born in Chaguanas, and measuring 6’9”, Bridgewater is expected to be a good prospect to be recruited by the NCAA.

“It’s been a completely different experience for me coming to the United States,” mentioned Bridgewater recently to a local newspaper. “I didn’t expect to meet a great group of guys who have been pushing me to succeed during practice. They made me into a better player each time we practiced, and that boosted my confidence.”

FIBA