Jamaica's basketball transformation with Coach Dave Black and Coach Rohan Ferguson from P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy

In a revealing and inspiring sit-down interview, we had the privilege of delving into the perspectives of P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy Jamaica's Director and Coach, Dave Black, and Coach Rohan Ferguson. As instrumental figures in the journey of the Academy's Prep and AAU team, they shed light on the profound impact of the team's maiden voyage to the USA. The interview offered a unique window into the minds of these coaches as they navigated the uncharted waters of competing in a drastically different basketball environment, both for themselves and the aspiring players under their guidance.

0:00 - Introductions to Coach Dave Black and Coach Rohan Ferguson

0:38 - This is a dream for players and coaches

2:41 - Importance of structured basketball

3:20 - This is a dream for me too (Coach Dave)

4:51 - How did P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy Jamaica start?

6:47 - Coach Rohan remembers when it stared

7:23 - Director Wayne Dawkins focus on development in Jamaica

8:07 - When P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy came the numbers grew

9:07 - P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy being international was important

10:27 - More kids from other schools and Parish's kept coming

11:24 - What P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy means as a parent

13:16 - As a young parent this is what it means to me (Dave Black)

14:38 - The large number of scholarships since the merger

15:05 - Growing up in Jamaica there was no where to play

16:41 - Problem is basketball starts for kids in high school

18:20 - Biggest problem in Jamaica is we start playing too late

19:24 - Players need to know the Jamaican success stories

20:25 - Another major problem is all our courts are outdoors

20:50 - Coming to USA and playing is totally different culture

22:09 - Closing Videos

P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy Jamaica's Prep and AAU team stands as a pioneering initiative in the nation, providing current high school players and recent high school graduates with an unprecedented opportunity for basketball development and exposure to college coaches and scouts. In their discussion, Directors Black and Coach Ferguson passionately articulated the significance of this program in fine-tuning the skills of Jamaican youth and elevating their prospects for collegiate success.

The extensive travel itinerary, encompassing vibrant basketball hubs in Florida, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and New York, is a testament to the Academy's unwavering commitment to maximizing exposure for these young athletes. The coaches emphasized how these trips transcend mere games, serving as invaluable showcases where players can demonstrate their talents directly in front of college coaches and scouts actively seeking new talent to enhance their rosters.

As the interview unfolded, it became evident that P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy's travel teams aren’t just a basketball team; it's a crucial stepping stone for these players in their pursuit of securing collegiate basketball opportunities and furthering their careers. Directors Black and Coach Ferguson encapsulate the vision and dedication behind this groundbreaking initiative, where the ultimate goal is not just victory on the court but the empowerment of Jamaican youth through the transformative power of basketball.