(MNS-JFK, 01 FEB. 2023): The Minister of National Security the Honorable Wayne Munroe, K.C. MP., congratulated the Street Legends Basketball league for their continuous dedicated work in the community, at the 1^st Annual Bertram McPhee Memorial Basketball tournament on Saturday January 28th, 2023.

Led by President Wilton Russell, the organization dedicated the tournament to the late Mr. McPhee, who coached the Free Town Ringers Basketball Team for over thirteen (13) years. He was tragically alongside his mother, on October 7, 2022. His widow, Ms. Oshana McPhee, along with family members, were in attendance. She was presented with a signed basketball from Minister Munroe and league organizers.

“This was a proud moment for me. My husband and I both worked together to positively impact the lives of young people among the various communities by giving them the chance to express their skills and talents through basketball”, said Mrs. McPhee. “He was a dedicated father who ensured the young people do positive things”.

In his remarks, Minister Munroe encouraged those in attendance to be concerned about their communities, and noted that Coach McPhee loved and worked with young people. He thanked his wife and family for their contributions to society. He also commended President Russell for the work he is currently doing with the young men, and pledged to assist in beautifying the basketball court in the community. He also addressed the young players by highlighting individuals who have excelled by persevering. He used the examples of Rick Fox and Buddy Hield, who both made it as professional players to the NBA.

According to President Russell, the organization is committed to bridging the gap and borders between the communities through sporting events such as basketball. He sees this as an opportunity for the young men to forge meaningful relationships.

Former Members of Parliament Richard Lightbourne and Dionisio D'Aguilar, Director for Teen Challenge activist Eric Fox, and Carlos Reid, Consultant for the Ministry of National Security were in attendance.

The Minister of National Security the Honorable Wayne Munroe, KC, M.P., presenting Ms. Oshana McPhee with a signed basketball at the 1st Annual Bertram McPhee Memorial Basketball tournament on Saturday January 28th, 2023. (Photo by Force Chief Petty Officer Jonathan Rolle)

The Minister of National Security the Honorable Wayne Munroe, KC, M.P., and league organizers at the 1st Annual Bertram McPhee Memorial Basketball tournament on Saturday January 28th, 2023. (Photo by Force Chief Petty Officer Jonathan Rolle)

Players in action at the 1st Annual Bertram McPhee Memorial Basketball tournament on Saturday January 28th, 2023. (Photo by Force Chief Petty Officer Jonathan Rolle)

Players in action at the 1st Annual Bertram McPhee Memorial Basketball tournament on Saturday January 28th, 2023. (Photo by Force Chief Petty Officer Jonathan Rolle)

Mrs. Oshana McPhee and players at the 1st Annual Bertram McPhee Memorial Basketball tournament on Saturday January 28th, 2023. (Photo by Force Chief Petty Officer Jonathan Rolle)

For further information please contact the Ministry of National Security Communications Office or email us: nationalsecurity@bahamas.gov.bs visit our website http://www.bahamas.gov.bs/nationalsecurity or follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MNSBahama