The Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) is buoyant about the sport’s prospects after a “fruitful” meeting with Minister Steven Jacobs, who reiterated the government’s commitment to basketball’s growth.GBF Vice Presidents Rawle Toney and Jermaine Slater met with Minister Jacobs during his ongoing consultations with national sports associations, an initiative designed to reinforce governmental support and explore new avenues for collaboration and improvement.Minister Jacobs, affirming President Irfaan Ali’s vision, stressed the government’s resolve to deliver on its sports manifesto pledges.A key focus is creating sustainable pathways for athletes post-competition, alongside prioritising their holistic well-being.He highlighted coaching and mentorship as vital areas for personal and professional growth, remarking, “Whatever is in that manifesto must be done and completed.”The GBF leadership also briefed the Minister on its strengthened relationship with the Ministry, particularly under the stewardship of Minister Charles Ramson Jr. Toney and Slater acknowledged significant government backing, including funding for national tournaments, support for international travel, and collaborations enabling Guyana to host major regional and international events.Jacobs, a former national cricketer, pledged to build upon the foundations laid by Minister Ramson Jr.Drawing on his sporting background, he demonstrated a keen understanding of the challenges faced by athletes and administrators.He emphasised that government support extends beyond finance and focuses on long-term investments in the flourishing of athletes and coaches.The GBF outlined ambitious plans for expanding basketball, encompassing grassroots development, school engagement, and structured competitions for male and female athletes across various age groups, in traditional and 3×3 formats.With Guyana poised to host the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Women’s Championships from 9-17 November at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, and national teams set for several international tournaments, Minister Jacobs reaffirmed the government’s full backing.He indicated that new initiatives would be rolled out to complement the GBF’s existing work, ensuring continued development with government support at the forefront.The GBF expressed strong optimism for the sport’s trajectory and confidence in its ongoing partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.The post Basketball Federation envisions ‘bright future’ after meeting Minister Jacobs appeared first on News Room Guyana.