GUYANESE born, Turks and Caicos-based teenage basketball player, Azel Carmicheal, has gained a scholarship to the Greater Beckley Christian School in West Virginia.
The 17-year-old point guard, who left these shores at the tender age of three, is one of the stars at the school level on the Caribbean island.
“I’m extremely excited and grateful for this opportunity. It’s honestly a blessing to receive such a great offer, all thanks to my coach, Ciaran O’Neill, and my parents for making it happen; I couldn’t thank them enough.

From this point forward, I’ll put my all into my academics and basketball. I intend to work hard and would continue to stay humble.”
The Linden-born said that since migrating, he has returned home approximately eight times and has played with family and friends; but his love and passion for the sport started in high school in Providenciales (the main island in terms of population and financial activities) in the TCI.
He led the Clement Howell High School team, Eagles, to three championships, including the TCI National High School Championship in December of 2019. In that competition, he was named MVP.

Prior to leaving for the US last week, Carmichael lived with his parents and siblings. His mother is an accountant, while his father is a mechanic.
Known for his mid-range jumpers and ball-handling skills, the 5’11 player is now hoping to take his game to the next level.

“I have a very high level of confidence going into the USA and I am hoping to improve my game even more and learn a lot of new things that can develop my game.”
Though small in terms of size and population, TCI’s geographic placement near the US (736 miles from Miami) makes it a prime visiting spot for US basketball teams (high schools and clubs) and individual players.
Among regular visitors is seasoned NBA player, Trevor Ariza. The 35-year-old forward (currently with the Portland Trailblazers) is a second generation Turks Islander.