Saint Lucian basketball sensation Megan Nestor was warmly welcomed home at Hewanorra International Airport on Thursday. The 6’4” Canaries native recently made her mark in American college basketball as one of the NCAA’s top rebounders.
Last season, she led all NCAA players in total rebounds (464), rebounds per game (14.1), and offensive rebounds per game (5.2) while playing for the University of North Texas (NCAA Division I) Mean Green.
On December 6, 2025, Nestor made college basketball history in a game against Texas Southern, scoring 34 points and grabbing 31 rebounds. She became only the third player in NCAA Division I women’s basketball since 1981-82 to achieve a 30-30 game.
Her achievements earned Nestor a spot at the Chicago Sky’s WNBA training camp, where she played during the 2025 preseason.
At Megan’s homecoming, her mother Sonia Nestor and her former national netball coach Shem Maxwell, who encouraged her to play basketball, were there to celebrate. Nestor thanked them for their ongoing support and guidance.
“Your love, support and belief in me carried me through some of the most challenging moments of this journey. I am forever grateful. Who would Megan Nestor be without you?” she said. “To my family gathered here today, thank you for your love, encouragement and unwavering support.”
Wayne Girard, the parliamentary representative for Anse La Raye/Canaries, praised Nestor at the event. The celebration also featured a motorcade to Megan’s home village of Canaries.
Girard said: “Megan, you have accomplished a lot on the collegiate stage. We are very proud of you. We will continue to stand by you in whatever capacity we can.”
Minister for Education, Youth Development and Sports Kenson Casimir pledged the government’s continued support for Nestor.
“I want to personally congratulate you on behalf of the government of Saint Lucia, and we certainly hope, and we know that this is just the beginning,” he said.
I have to give the Gold Medal to St. Lucia, it sure knows how to show appreciation.