JAMAICA’s basketball programme has grown significantly over the past two years and NBA Champion and All-Star Norman Powell believes adding more players from the league could further strengthen its financial position.

Miami Heat guard Powell is set to make his return to the national team this summer for Jamaica’s final group games in the first round of FIBA World Cup Qualifying against Bahamas and Canada in July. Jamaica currently sit second in the group on six points and can secure a spot in the final round with victory in either match.

The 32-year-old missed the first four games from November to March as he unavailable due to NBA commitments, with the Heat not obligated to release players for international duty.