Basketball golden boy Steven Simons believes the heroes welcome Bermuda's Island Games squad has received since returning triumphant from Aland is no more than they deserve.

Yesterday, they were congratulated by Premier Ewart Brown and Sports Minister Glenn Blakeney at the House of Assembly in recognition of the 32 medals the squad won in Scandanavia, including 14 gold, 6 silver and 12 bronze.

And Simons, whose sensational three-pointer right on the buzzer took the final match into overtime, said it was important athletes who play so-called minority sports enjoy the limelight when they do the Island proud.

"It feels good to get some recognition for all our hard work," said Simons.

"Many of the athletes here today aren't from the so-called big sports, so it's extremely pleasing to be apart of this. It feels good to come back to a heroes reception because the smaller sports don't get much recognition.

"Basketball over the years hasn't been as popular as the other big sports in Bermuda, but now you can see it growing through the school system and getting bigger every year.

"It's important for anyone who wears the colours of Bermuda to succeed. We're representing our country and want to show that Bermuda can perform on the big stage."

Bermuda's basketballers accomplished their mission of winning gold by beating Menorca 83-75 to exact revenge on the team that denied them first place at the last Games in Rhodes, Greece, two years ago.

The match looked like it was going the way of the defending champions until Simons hit the target with a last-gasp effort, allowing Bermuda to outmuscle their fast-fading and demoralised opponents in overtime.

"It's an amazing feeling for us, it's been two long years of waiting patiently after we lost to Menorca," said Simons.

Minister Blakeney yesterday heaped praise on the returning athletes, and singled out gymnast Kaisey Griffith for special mention.

"Our athletes put on a magnificent performance," said Blakeney. "Undoubtedly the highlight of the Games was the gymnastics team ¿ especially Kaisey Griffith who collected seven individual gold medals ¿ half of our gold medal haul.

"We all know there is no "I" in team ¿ the team managers, coaches, health professionals, sponsors, parents, mentors and everyone involved all work together to ensure the team is successful ¿ and I offer my thanks and congratulations to all involved. You have made Bermudians proud ¿ and we salute you for your passion, commitment and effort in ensuring Bermuda competes successfully, and with integrity and sportsmanship all over the world."