Coach of Guyana’s male basketball team for this year’s Inter-Guiana Games (IGG) Robert ‘Bobby’ Cadogan, yesterday said that he had slashed the training squad down to 15 players and named `Wonder Boy’ Akeem ‘The Dream’ Kanhai as captain.
In an exclusive interview with this newspaper, Cadogan said that he believes the team was well equipped even though most of the players will be stepping into deep waters for the first time.
“I had to work with what was given to me and I have to come up with the best possible squad because as you know we [Guyana] are the defending champions for the males at this level so it’s my duty to make sure we have the best representation,” he stated.
The national coach said naming Kanhai captain was an automatic decision based on what the 18-year-old brought to the squad.
“He (Kanhai) is the best junior player in the country and his experience and knowledge of the game at such a young age is unbelievable. He commands the respect of the other players on the team and, as matter of fact, they all look up to him. So far he is displaying excellent leadership and that’s what I’m looking for,” said Cadogan.
“Any coach relishes the chance to have a player who can play from one to five on the court and also is used to playing at this level and so on – so without a doubt, this youngster has what it takes to lead this team, that’s why I placed him as the captain,” Cadogan reasoned.
Cadogan expressed concerns about the centres especially against Suriname.
“Well like I said, I had to work with what I have. I have a few guys who returned from last year and I have a few big men whom I had to bring together over time.
“They are talented, but it is raw, you know, the basics and so on weren’t there but Kanhai makes the major difference. Once we have the right make up on the court while he is there we’ll be fine.”
Cadogan thinks the team will acquit itself well.
“I think the squad will hold its own in Suriname. I think the chemistry is there and everything, so all we have to do is continue working hard.”
He added: “What we have to note is that us winning the title again is crucial and as coach it’s my duty to make sure it stays that way.”
The final team selection will be made in another two weeks time.
Cadogan plans to have the team face a few first division clubs which he said will help to boost the morale of those players who have never played against their senior counterparts before.
“This method is crucial for us because apart from Kanhai, Orin Rose and Shelroy Thomas to an extent, none of the other players have really played outside of the school basketball arena and us going to Suriname as the defending champions, it would be important for those players to build their confidence level.”
The 15 players are: Akeem Kanhai (captain), Orin Rose, Richard Mohandatt, Shelroy Thomas, Cowan Gittens, Yanik Dundas, Kadeen Jacobs, Marlon Pollydore, Darrion Lewis, Rudolph Daley, Dominique Douglas, Clive Wilson, Elton Jefford jr., Waynewright Haynes and Drexel Amsterdam.
