Delmira Pierce, Pioneer of Panamanian Women’s Basketball, Passes Away at 107

Centro Caribe Sports Press – 25 November 2025

With deep sorrow, the sporting family of Panama and the region mourns the passing of Delmira Pierce, known as “The Caribbean Cyclone,” who died on Monday at the age of 107, after a life devoted to sport, teaching, and the development of generations.

Delmira Pierce was an iconic figure in Panamanian women’s basketball and in Central American and Caribbean sport. In 1933, she led her teammates to win the first Women’s National Championship. Five years later, at the 1938 Central American and Caribbean Games in Panama (held from 5 to 24 February), she guided the national women’s basketball team to the gold medal, and also secured bronze in volleyball, finishing as the top scorer of the basketball tournament.

Her talent took her to compete in several countries around the world, including El Salvador, Peru, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Spain, Italy, England, and France, strengthening her international career and leaving an indelible mark everywhere she played.

Beyond the Court

After her successful athletic career, Delmira Pierce dedicated much of her life to teaching Physical Education, bringing her passion for sport into the classroom and shaping generations of young people. Her commitment to women in sport and her dedication as an educator made her a symbol of leadership and service.

The Panamanian Basketball Federation expressed its deepest condolences upon receiving the news of her passing:

“The Panamanian Basketball Federation expresses its heartfelt condolences on the passing of Delmira Pierce, ‘The Caribbean Cyclone,’ a pioneer of Panamanian women’s basketball and an example of dedication on and off the court. We extend our sympathies to her family, friends, and the entire national basketball community, wishing them strength in this moment of sorrow. Her legacy will live on in every generation that continues to dream of transforming their lives through basketball.”

A Legacy That Lives On

Delmira Pierce was a woman who opened doors for others and believed in sport as a tool for change.

At Centro Caribe Sports, we join Panama and the entire region in mourning her loss. We celebrate the life of Delmira Pierce and express our gratitude for her example, passion, and dedication. Her story will remain an inspiration for all women in sport throughout Latin America.