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BANMI mourns loss of great player
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Posted on Sep 27 2000
The Basketball Association of the Northern Mariana Islands (BANMI) mourns one of its greatest basketball players, Tom Barcinas, who passed away Monday at a hospital in Honolulu.
Barcinas played basketball during the 70’s through 90’s and captured many of the CNMI youth basketball players for his talent in basketball.
He was considered by many as one of the greatest point guards that ever played basketball in the league and best remembered for his outstanding shooting and assist.
He had appeared in championship games in the 70’s and 80’s as Team Toyota Wheels and captured titles during his years as a player. Barcinas had redefined the role of a point guard to take it to a new level.
Many of the youths and adults who resided in Garapan Village remember Barcinas who occasionally played at Garapan Basketball Court.
BANMI commissioner Raymond Lizama said he remembers Barcinas growing up in Garapan and having a big influence on many teenagers growing up in Garapan to learn the game of basketball. He has become a mentor for many of the players that grew up in Garapan Village.
“He has taught me the concept and philosophy of the game. He was a great mentor and made an impact in my career as a player and teammate during the 80’s. He has taught me a valuable lesson on how to play the game and comprehend the game. I remembered Tom as a humble player and respected player on and off the court,” Lizama said.
BANMI will surely miss one of it’s greatest basketball player, especially for his contribution to the success of basketball in the Northern Marianas,” the association said.
