The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture wishes to congratulate Mr. Deandre Ayton on his recent selection into the NBA as the #1 Draft Pick in the 2018 Draft.

It has been 40 years since another Bahamian Mychal “Sweetbells” Thompson was drafted by the Portland Trailblazers at #1 and the 1^st Foreign born athlete to be drafted #1.  We are happy to see yet another son of the soil, enter this realm of basketball and anticipate his immediate impact in the league.

Deandre’s selection highlights the increasing presence of Bahamians represented in this organization.  Along with others with Bahamian roots, Deandre will join Chavano “Buddy” Hield who was drafted #6 by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2016, and now plays with the Sacramento Kings.

The success of former and current Bahamians playing in the NBA continues to serve as an inspiration to young aspiring basketball players throughout the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

Deandre, we are proud of you and wish you success as you begin your career in the NBA.