With high school basketball taking center stage, the New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) is currently on a break, but the playoffs are rapidly approaching.This year, there is stiff competition between the teams, and not much separation in terms of talent. With new faces making names for themselves, the league has taken off.There have been upsets in both divisions. Led by swingman Michael Bain, the Commonwealth Bank Giants are undefeated, and are poised to reclaim their title. Even though they are undefeated, they were in a lot of closely contested games that could have easily gone either way.NPBA President Keith 'Belsie' Smith said he likes the level of competition so far."Some of the younger players are beginning to step up. They are beginning to get their feet wet and are now having huge impacts on the games."Smith also spoke about how there is not too much distance between the teams."Sometimes records may be deceptive of how good a team is. There have been a lot of tough losses this season, and some records could have easily looked a lot different, so it is going to make for an interesting playoffs. An upset can happen at any time," he added.The league has also expanded and improved off the court with a new look website that features live statistics, player tracking and schedule updates. What's most impressive is that now you can watch a live stream of the action. These are the things that Smith is most proud of."Every year the league has made improvements, and we are continuing to grow. The level of competition has always been good, and now it will get its proper exposure."Play is set to resume February 26 with a double-header. The first game will feature the Defence Force Marines going against the Double R. Services Ltd. Cleaners, and the second game of the night will be the Pyramid Food Rockets taking on The College of The Bahamas Caribs.

Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian