Canadian College Hoops

[Durbansandshark]

Never thought you mates would get this here or see this coming. Where I'm at, outside of the Internet, you'll never get CIAU basketball stuff in the mainstream. The talent level there is comparable to that of the NCAA DIII. Athletic scholarships for Canadian schools are non-existant; it's not the big multi-million dollar juggernaut as it is south of the border. That's why a lot of top Canadian hoopsters over the years like Leo Rautins, Steve Nash, Stacey Dales-Schuman, Kim Smith, Jamaal Magloire, Prosper Karangwa, Marie-Eve Leduc, Carl English, Kim Mackie, Bill Wennington, Rick Fox, Mike Smrek, Shona Thornburn, Ryan Mendes, Juan Gomes, Denham Brown, Bev Francis, Mohammed Hachad, Samuel Dalembert, Lars Hansen, Pascal Fluery, and Todd MacCollugh all had to, in order to pursue their hoop dreams more successfully and with greater exposure, head south. I only know of only one Canadian in recent memory who got drafted out of a Canadian university--that was Ghanian-born William Njoku, who got drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 1994 in the second round. He never suited up for them. In other words here, you have to be incredibly superlative in the CIAU to gain notice from the top scouts. But at that point it was who was the best player available when he got selected. Though Jay Triano and Eli Pasquale both did get drafted by the NBA while hailing from Canadian schools when it had more rounds than two. Also, it's not uncommon for an American to play in the Canadian college game.

Don't know if the 2006-2007 CIAU basketball season started already, but I'll check on it in this post. There's no separate divisions in Canadain college basketball unlike in the US (which will have its own topic to post in very soon).

CANWEST CONFERENCE

British Columbia (UBC) Thunderbirds
Regina Cougars
Victoria Vikings
Saskatchewan Huskies
Trinity Western Spartans
Alberta Golden Bears/Pandas (women's teams name)
Brandon Bobcats
Calgary Dinos
Lethbridge Pronghorns
Winnipeg Wesmen/Weswomen
Simon Fraser University Clansman (was in the NAIA for a time)
Manitoba Bison
Thompson Rivers Wolfpack
University College of Fraser Valley Cascades

UNIVERSITY OF ONTARIO ATHLETICS WEST

McMaster Marauders
Guelph Gryphons
Brock Badgers
Waterloo Warriors
Windsor Lancers
Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks
Lakehead Thunderwolves
Western Ontario Mustangs

UNIVERSITY OF ONTARIO ATHLETICS EAST

Carleton Ravens
Ottawa Gee Gees
Toronto Blues
York Lions
Laurentian Voyaguers
Queens Golden Gaels
Ryerson College Rams
Royal Military College of Canada

QUEBEC STUDENT SPORT FEDERATION

Concordia Stingers
Bishop's Gaiters
University of Quebec at Montreal Citadins
Laval Rouge d'Or (Red and Gold)
McGill Redmen/Merlots
University of Montreal Carabins

ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY

Acadia Axemen/women
Cape Breton Capers
Dalhousie Tigers
Memorial University of Newfoundland Red Hawks
New Brunswick Varsity Reds
Prince Edward Island Panthers
St. Mary's Huskies
St. Francis of Xavier X-Men/-Women

No big basketball programs:

St. Thomas University Tommies
University de Moncton Aigles Bleues (Blue Eagles)
University of Ontario Institute of Technology Ridgeback
Trent Excalibur
Nipissing Lakers

www.universitysport.ca (http://www.universitysport.ca)

[Warney]

There is a player playing in seabl for ballarat from Carleton. Paul Larmand is his name. Kilsyth had Josh Poirer in 05 from same uni. Both players got to there respective clubs by there college team playing in some tournament that the Perth Wildcats played in, in ASIA somewhere. Braith Cox would have recommended Paul to Ballarat as Matt Shanahan gave good wraps on Josh. Both players have done very well at SEABL level.

[TBA]

Isnt there an aussie playing over in Canada for Guelph? Canberra youngster Joel Richardson.

[Durbansandshark]

Yes Richardson does play for the Guelph Gryphons. He wears #11.

[djrod]

Hey Durbansandshark...

My sister lives in Kingston and scores for the Queens team. She has been over there for a few years now.

If you are ever in that neck of the woods, let me know.

Her and her husband work at the Queens university.

[Durbansandshark]

Something to keep you occupied about the CIAU for the time being for the 2006-2007 preview, starting with the Canada West Conference:
www.cisport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=7855 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=7855)
www.cisport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=7856 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=7856)

[Durbansandshark]

2005-2006 CIAU Standings--Men's

Canada West
University of British Columbia 20-0
Regina 16-4
Victoria 15-5
Saskatchewan 13-7
Trinity 10-10
University of Alberta 10-10
Brandon 10-10
University of Calgary 9-11
Lethbridge 8-11
University of Winnipeg 8-11
Simon Fraser University 5-15
University of Manitoba 4-16

Quebec
Concordia University 16-4
Bishop's 9-7
Universite de Laval 9-7
UQAM 6-10
McGill University 2-14

Ontario West
McMaster 16-7
Guelph 14-8
Brock 14-8
Waterloo 13-9
Windsor 12-10
Laurier 10-12
Lakehead 8-14
Western Ontario 3-19

Ontario East
Carleton 20-8
Ottawa 18-4
University of Toronto 16-6
York University 14-8
Laurentien 8-14
Queen's College 6-18
Ryerson 3-19
RMC 2-22

Atlantic East
St. Francis of Xavier 16-4
Cape Breton 16-4
St. Mary's 14-6
UPEI 10-10
Memorial 9-10
New Brunswick 7-13
Dalhousie 5-17
Acadia 2-17

The University College of Fraser Valley Cascades--situated in Kamloops, British Columbia--make their CIAU debut this season in basketball with both men's and women's programs in the CIAU.

Check out the initial rankings for the CIAU basketball for both the men and women. Notice how both the UBC Thunderbirds men's and women's team are ranked second in each poll.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=7930 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=7930)

[ebehoops]

The CIAU (Canadian Intercollegiate Athletic Union) is now know as the CIS (Canadian Intercollegiate Sports). The level of play would probably be closer to NCAA division two, with some of the top CIS schools being able to compete with the top div. 1 teams. Over the past few years, my alma mater, UBC (University of British Columbia), has beat Georgia, Kansas State, etc., and lost to Arizona, UNLV, Kansas, etc. Even against top ten teams, the Canadian schools have been very competitive.

CIS schools can offer scholarships. It isn't the traditional full ride that an NCAA school can offer but many schools come close to that standard. The western schools all want to go the scholarships route but traditionally the central (Ontario) and eastern schools object... something about the purity of the student/athlete experience but more likely they don't want to have to compete nationally for talent.

One of the mates mentioned Queens, which is one of the top scholastic schools in North America but is traditionally shaky on the basketball floor. Although, this year, one of my high school players from Vancouver has made their roster. So, if you get out to see the team play in Kingston ON, watch for a skinny, 6' 5" shooting guard named Jacky Liu. Excellent from behind the arc.

Overall, the biggest difference between Canadian and American schools is roster depth, the athleticism of the bigs and obviously strength of schedule. Having said that though, Canadian university (and college) ball is quite high calibre. Many of the top Canadian players choose to stay home and play CIS rather than head south for the lure of the NCAA. That hasn't always been the case in the past.

There, I've defended the homeland and my past playing career. Any Canadian hoops questions, just fire me off an email.

[Durbansandshark]

Thanks so much ebehoops! :)

I more than realize that there are several aspects that I and many of us are misinformed about on the exact details on the present state of Canadian college basketball like with talent level, scholarships (like someone like me would come to know it as), and depth and athleticism like centres. I am aware of the fact the colleges can defeat our top college teams here like recently in the preseason. There's plenty of for us to learn about it.

[Durbansandshark]

Here's the men's preview for the Ontario East Conference:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8071 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8071)

McMaster Marauders are on top of the CIS women's basketball rankings 3-0 while defending champions in the men's side the Carleton Ravens are likewise 2-0.

More will come early next week.

[Durbansandshark]

The University of Ottawa Gee Gees will face against the 4-time CIS men's defending champs Carelton Ravens on January 23 at Ottawa's ScotiaBank Place in the Capital Hoops Classic. This will showcase two of the best Canadian men's basketball programs in the nation as the Capital Hoops Classic marks as a first of an annual regular season event between the two schools. Perhaps this will be a significant step to take Canadian college basketball to a whole new level by putting it at the ScotiaBank Place. The Ravens have 87-game winning streak while the Gees Gees became a power by managing to jump into the CIS Top Ten for most of the last season.

Speaking of the ScotiaBank Place (Place Banque Scotia in French, formerly the Corel Centre and The Palladium before that): Since 1988, the W.P. McGee Trophy 10-team men's basketball tournament has been held in Halifax at the Halifax MetroCentre, where the cultivation of the city's love for basketball has been bountiful. Before that from 1963, it was held in Canadian university on-campus venues nationwide, the last being Dalhousie University. After 20 years in the Nova Scotia capital city, the tournament will move to the 20,500-seat Ottawa arena that serves as home to the NHL's Ottawa Senators starting in 2008.

The UBC women are the current holders of the women's championship. Named the Bronze Baby.

The men's and women's CIS basketball ranking for this week. No surprise that the Ravens are still on top in the men's rankings. Ottawa is fifth with UBC, Victoria Vikings, and St. Francis of Xavier above them. McMaster Marauder women are on top of the women. UBC is second foolowed by Simon Fraser, Sakatchewan, the Alberta Pandas, and Brock. Cape Breton Capers are the only other school currently ranked in both polls at this time.
www.universitysports.ca/e/m_basketball/ ... fm?id=8109 (http://www.universitysports.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8109)

[Durbansandshark]

Carleton showed no signs of abdicating the top spot in the CIS men's basketball ranking after dispelling Laurier and Waterloo. Over in the women, McMaster is still on top of their rankings after defeating York 70-53. The British Columbia Thunderbirds are still undefeated and in second place.

www.universitysport.ca/e/story_detail.cfm?id=8130 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/story_detail.cfm?id=8130)

[Durbansandshark]

The fifth-ranked University of Alberta Pandas women's basketball team is showing no signs of slowing down its winning ways from the start of the gate. Like dismantling Brandon 89-24 Thursday. Next up the Pandas face the more-competitive cross-provincial rival, the high-paced Calgary Dinos. The men (the Golden Bears) meanwhile were looking to end their three-game skid (losing to Regina and Brandon) against, you guessed it, the Dinos this past weekend (the Golden Bears won).
www.gateway.ualberta.ca/view.php?aid=7047 (http://www.gateway.ualberta.ca/view.php?aid=7047)

After suffering an upset to UQAM and then winning against the Concordia Stingers to start the season, Bishop's Gaiters women did the double Quebec dip with a road game against Laval and a home one versus McGill's Marlets. Laval was undefeated coming in while the McGill played only one game so far until seeing Bishop's--a loss to Montreal city rival Laval.
www.cisport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8122 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8122)

Carelton Ravens obviously leads the way in the OAU East Conference designated as the best conference in the CIS. There are also four or five other men's basketball there who are also very good. Ottawa, Toronto, York, Laurentian, and even Queen's College are competitive. The scary thing about Dave Smart's Carelton team is that they're even better than the last few seasons; they even have the luxury of three players who saw time on the Canadian senior men's team.

Simon Fraser Clanwomen are on a seven game winning streak. That and other stories can be found at: www.freewebs.com/frozenhoops13/index.htm (http://www.freewebs.com/frozenhoops13/index.htm)

Right now, I'm too lazy to write all of the CIS basketball scores for the time being. Thankfully, Frozen Hoops helps us all out with imported box scores, dates, times, and webcasts. Maybe, ebehoops can help me out on this, but how often do the CIS basketball games are broadcats on TV like on the CBC, TSN/RDS, CTV?
www.freewebs.com/frozenhoops13/cisscoreboards.htm (http://www.freewebs.com/frozenhoops13/cisscoreboards.htm)

[Durbansandshark]

UCFV Cascades heartbreakingly fall to Trinity Western thanks to the charity stripe.
www.abbynews.com/portals-code/list.cgi? ... &more= (http://www.abbynews.com/portals-code/list.cgi?paper=38&cat=40&id=784330&more=)

Beginning next season, the CIS will implement FIBA rules for the Canadian men's college basketball scene as part of Canada Basketball's vision of alligning and growing the game under FIBA at all levels of basketball there. The women already have done so starting this season after a vote in the spring effective 2006. That means the trapazoid lanes and only coaches calling timeouts. The big provincial high athletics associations in BC, Ontario, and Nova Scotia are next.
www.universitysport.ca/e/story_detail.cfm?id=8167 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/story_detail.cfm?id=8167)

Winnipeg Wesman senior G Erfan Nasajpour stunned the #8 Brandon Bobcats with a controversial off-balance jumper with 2.5 seconds left to give Winnipeg a 76-75 win Thursday.
www.universitysport.ca/e/story_detail.cfm?id=8145 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/story_detail.cfm?id=8145)

The marquee clash in men's basketball lately was the British Columbian provincial rivalry between the University of Victoria Vikings and the UBC Thunderbirds in Vancouver for Canada West supremacy. It didn't disappoint with UBC squeaking out a victory to stay undefeated and right behind Carleton. McMaster is still undefeated in the women's game and still on top.
www.universitysport.ca/e/story_detail.cfm?id=8164 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/story_detail.cfm?id=8164)
www.gothunderbirds.ca/sports_team_story ... oryid=1657 (http://www.gothunderbirds.ca/sports_team_story.asp?id=3&storyid=1657)

Lauretian's men dominate Western Ontario but then lose to #6 Windsor. The women--the Lady Vees--meanwhile win over Western Ontario that same weekend.
www.luvoyaguers.com (http://www.luvoyaguers.com)

Over at the University of Toronto, the Varsity Blues split the Waterloo Weekend with a loss to Waterloo and then winning over Laurier. So far this season has been up and down. The women received a similar fate when facing their Waterloo counterparts that same weekend. Also, University of Toronto men's basketball coaching legend John McManus, who coached from 1955-56 to 1982-83 with the Blues, lost his battle to cancer on December 1.
http://varsityblues.ca/sports/mbasketball/
http://varsityblues.ca/sports/wbasketball/

Alberta hosted Lethbridge this past weekend. The Golden Bears won. Here it's just the preview.
www.gateway.ualberta.ca/view.php?aid=7157 (http://www.gateway.ualberta.ca/view.php?aid=7157)

Don't forget to look for more articles on the Canadian college basketball through Frozen Hoops' links mentioned at my previous post here!

[Durbansandshark]

The University College of Fraser Valley Cascades men are, not expectedly, having a rough time in their CIS debut. The Cascades are currently 2-11, fifth in Canada West's Pacific West Division, as they enter the second half of the 2006-07 season. They dropped ten straight but shown improvment during the course of the season including a near-win against the Victoria Vikings. Here CIS talks to coach Tom Antil about the state of the Cascades season and his hopes for the rest of the way. You can also take a look at what's ahed for them.

www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8175 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8175)

The Cascade women are doing a little better at this midpoint than the men. They are 4-7 as they swept the season series with the Trinity Western Spartans needing to into OT to do so. Here's coach Al Tuschscherer being interviewed.
www.ucfv.ca/Athletics/sports_team_story ... toryid=195 (http://www.ucfv.ca/Athletics/sports_team_story.aspx?id=2&storyid=195)

Ryerson University Rams hosts the 16th Annual Ed DeArmon Memorial Tournament against Brock, Cape Breton, UPEI, Lakehead, York, Memorial University of Newfoundland, and Thompson Rivers starting Thursday, December 28.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8183 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8183)

Thanks to Cassandra Carpenter's 30 points and 25 rebounds, the Laurentian Lady Vees conquer Windsor Lancer 93-88.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8153 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story.detail.cfm?id=8153)

Tomorrow I will check on the scene in Quebec.

[Durbansandshark]

Some Quebec-based college basketball stuff as promised.

The Concordia Stingers men are atop the Quebec Conference at the midpoint undefeated.
http://athletics.concordia.ca/intercoll ... ault.shtml (http://athletics.concordia.ca/intercollegiate/mbasketball/default.shtml)

Stephanie Ramonas and the Stinger women win their QSSF opener against UQAM at home.
http://athletics.concordia.ca/intercoll ... ault.shtml (http://athletics.concordia.ca/intercollegiate/wbasketball/default.shtml)

McGill's Marie-Eve Beaulieu-Demers suffered what may be a season-ending injury in a home loss to UQAM earlier this month.
www.athletics.mcgill.ca/varsity_sports_ ... le_id=2719 (http://www.athletics.mcgill.ca/varsity_sports_article.ch2?article_id=2719)

The Redmen win over UQAM eralier this month in a thrilla against the cross-city rivals.

Here's Laval's basketball site (in French)
www.rougeetdor.ulaval.ca/les_clubs/bask ... index.html (http://www.rougeetdor.ulaval.ca/les_clubs/basketball/basketball_accueil/index.html)

[Durbansandshark]

Canadian college basketball is at the midpoint break right now

Ahh, the Simon Fraser University Clan are currently in Hawaii for the 2006 Hoop 'N Surf Classic. They defeated the Dane College Vikings and now set their sights on the Oneonta Red Dragons. Oh, they're crowned Hoop 'N Surf champs yesterday.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8191 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8191)
http://cgi.sfu.ca/~athlwww/modules.php? ... ew_topic=1 (http://cgi.sfu.ca/~athlwww/modules.php?/name=News&new_topic=1)
http://cgi.sfu.ca/~athlwww/modules.php? ... ew_topic=2 (http://cgi.sfu.ca/~athlwww/modules.php?/name=News&new_topic=2) (women)

Another invitational tournament is going on with Victoria Vikings hosting the five-team Guy Vetrie Invitational at victoria's McKinnon Gym on December 28th. Named in honour of the six-time Canada West Coach Of the Year who died suddenly and unexpectedly in 2003.
www.govikesgo.com (http://www.govikesgo.com)
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8192 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8192)

Seems like a good time to check up on the dominant Ravens. If you care for some info on Ottawa's powerhouse Carleton Ravens, the CIS three-time defending (and unbeaten) champs in men's basketball, visit the website at www.carleton.ca/athletics/sports/varsit ... index.html (http://www.carleton.ca/athletics/sports/varsity/m_bball/index.html)
They're still undefeated and closed out play in the OUA 8-0. The Ravens will host the CIS men's basketball title from 2008 to 2010 at the ScotiaBank Place.

The Raven women's team meanwhile are on the opposite end of the victory realm. They're 1-7, losing seven straight.
www.carleton.ca/athletics/sports/varsit ... index.html (http://www.carleton.ca/athletics/sports/varsity/w_bball/index.html)

Reaction to the women's Canadian college basketball game going to FIBA rules this season has been mixed so far with players still struggling to adjust and adapt. Results in more turnovers and extra shots. Some college coaches are not happy that they were forced down their throats.
http://thechronicleherald.ca/sports/548409.html

[Durbansandshark]

Will return to the Canadian college basketball scene in a matter of days, definitely by next week. The Canadian college basketball winter holiday break is over now. There's lots to cover there.

[MAIN_MAN]

Isnt there an aussie playing over in Canada for Guelph? Canberra youngster Joel Richardson.

I've seen Joel play ABA afew times. He's 6'3 and is a pretty good scorer.

[Durbansandshark]

Halifax's story of how it grew the Final 8 into a sought after event in Canadian basketball...and how Carleton University paid C$1 million dollars to move it to Ottawa for the next three years last June.
www.hfxnews.ca/index.cfm?sid=3263&sc=92 (http://www.hfxnews.ca/index.cfm?sid=3263&sc=92)

A (dated) preview of Vancouver's in-city women's basketball rivalry between its two schools UBC and Simon Fraser University: www.canadawest.org/sports_team_story.as ... toryid=314 (http://www.canadawest.org/sports_team_story.aspx?id=2&storyid=314)

Speaking of SFU, the men became the latest victim to the newbies UCFV Cascades' three game win streak with the latter winning in OT. www.universitysport.ca/e/mens_basketbal ... fm?id=8233 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/mens_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8233)

University of Ottawa Gee Gees (Garnet and Grey) men win their ninth in a row over the Laurentian Voyaguers. www.universitysport.ca/e/mens_basketbal ... fm?id=8228 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/mens_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8228)

Lethbridge Pronghorns move in to tie with the Calgary Dinos 5-9 to vie for the last playoff spot in Canada West's Central Division as they beat the Dinos 75-74. www.canadawest.org/sports_team_story.as ... toryid=350 (http://www.canadawest.org/sports_team_story.aspx?id=1&storyid=350)

University of British Columbia Thunderbird men continue to keep pace with Carleton by staying undefeated over crosstown rival--you guessed it--Simon Fraser University to be 12-0. www.cisport.ca/e/mens_basketball/story_ ... fm?id=8208 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/mens_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8208)

To be continued...

[Durbansandshark]

The undoubtably powerhouse McMaster women won over the always tough Guelph at home and still came out undefeated 66-54 and atop the CIS women's basketball rankings. Lindsay Degroot led everyone with 19 points and 8 boards for McMaster with Chiarra Rossa held it down defensively with 15 boards and 14 points. Stephanie Yallin, the only Guelph player in double figures, had 12 points. Gap in the OUA widens with McMasters atop with 14-0 and Guelph fourth 10-4.

OUA West bottom-feeder Windsor Warriors took on third place Brock and Brock (11-3) won easily 74-51 as it fights for the top spot in the OUA West. Jody Eberling scored 20 points for the Brock Badgers while Kim Dillon nailed 22 for Windsor. In the same division, the Western Ontario Mustangs handed Waterloo 73-59 another loss in another women's game thanks to Gillian Maxwell's double double (14 points and 10 rebounds). By contrast, Waterloo's Nadine Perron netted a huge 30 pts but got no help from her teammates.

Acadia Axewomen attacked STFX 76-70 on the road in the Atlantic. Semra Ilhan scored 23 as Kim Hurley had 19. Acadia improves to 3-6.

UQAM wins as hosts over their crosstown rival the McGill Marlets 64-58.

Katie Laurie leads Ottawa over Carleton 62-50 in another crosscity rivalry while Ines Jelic accumulated 14 points and 8 rebounds in a losing effort.

The McGill Redmen defeated UQAM 87-78 at home. Matthew Thornhill scored 19 points for McGill.

Brock the home team wins over Windsor 74-69. But Windsor is still on top of Ontario West in men's basketball.

The McMaster men evened their season record at .500 and 6-6 with a victory over the Guelph Gryphons narrowly defeated them 68-65.

STFX keeps up with Acadia with a win over Axemen from Tyler Richards' 22 points. Paola Santana had 23 for the Axemen

www.usbasket.com/can/can.asp (http://www.usbasket.com/can/can.asp)

[Durbansandshark]

CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! CARLETON LOSES! For the third time in 116 games (or four seasons), the No. 1-ranked Carleton Ravens men's basketball team taste defeat thanks to their crosscity rivals the Ottawa Gee Gees in gripping fashion in front of 9730 basketball fans at the ScotiaBank Place--a record number for a regular season Canadian college basketball game for the inuagural MNBA Capital Hoops Classic. Tickets sales for the game in Ottawa, to use a term from where I'm from, were off the chain. Keep in mind this intended as a trial run for Ottawa's ScotiaBank Place hosting the next three CIS Final 8s starting next year. Ottawa's Josh Gibson-Bascombe hit the game-winning jumper with 4.7 seconds left to go. Mike Kenny had a chance to keep the Ravens streak alive after that with a three but it hit iron. Early on it was a game of nerves playing in a huge arena, which is not commonplace for Canadian college hoops; the Gees Gees didn't score until 3:30 into the first quarter and Ravens only scored 2 points. It was all up and down including an Ottawa 6-0 run and leading at halftime--and even after that with a 7-0 run. But Carleton turned things around like any champion will do with help from Osvaldo Jeanty thus evening it 43 all. They even led 51-50, but Gibson-Bascombe converted four straight baskets to regain the lead 62-56. Then Carleton roared back to be as close to two with Stuart Turnbull's two free throws. Aaron Doorenkamp evened thing only ended up to witness Gibson-Bascombe's victory shot. Gees Gees coach David DeAvario has to be incredibly estatic over this since he has to recruit in Carleton's immense and seemingly insurmountable shadow. A game that will be remembered for the ages and cements Ottawa as the present Canadian basketball hotbed. The Ravens already hold a CIS record 87-game winning streak that was stopped by the Brock Badgers on January 8th, 2006.
www.geegees.uottawa.ca/athletics/news/V ... icleid=390 (http://www.geegees.uottawa.ca/athletics/news/VConten.asp?lang=EN&articleid=390)

McMaster women remain undefeated after edging out Guelph and Brock and continue to be atop the CIS women's basketball ranking. Starting tonight (Wednesday US and Canada time) the Marauders face bottom-table easybeats Laurier (4-11) and Windsor (5-11) this week. British Columbia Thunderbirds still remain close to McMaster and without a loss by taking care of fellow BC rivals Victoria Vikings this past weekend on Vancouver Island 71-56 and 71-58--yes, they won over Simon Fraser from my last post.
www.athrec.mcmaster.ca/athletics/teams/ ... wbball.htm (http://www.athrec.mcmaster.ca/athletics/teams/basketball/wbball.htm)

More and exciting Canadian college basketball news is coming tomorrow! :D

[Durbansandshark]

More on the Gees Gees' shocking upset of the Ravens. The two Ottawa sides meet again on February 17. Surely the Carleton Ravens have revenge on their minds (maybe total annihilation) now.
www.cisport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8285 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8285)
www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/L ... ry/Sports/ (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20070124.OTTAWA24/TPStory/Sports/)
http://charlatan.ca/index.php?option=co ... &Itemid=32 (http://charlatan.ca/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18305&Itemid=32)

David DeAvario and his Gee Gees relished this opportunity against Carleton:
www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/L ... ory/Sports (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20070122.CIS22/TPStory/Sports)

FYI, the largest crowds for Canadian men's college basketball games are:
12,139--Copps Coliseum, Hamilton, Ontario, McMaster-Memorial Oct. 25, 2004

11,383--Copps Coliseum, Hamilton, Ontario, University of New Brunswick-McMaster, October 30, 2003

11,000--Halifax Metro Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Arcadia-St. Mary's, March 1978 (CIS Championship)

10,877--Copps Coliseum, Hamilton, Ontario, McMaster-McGill, October 25, 2005

Brandon Bobcats are on a 7-game win streak beating Calgary Dinos.
www.cisport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8253 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8253)

Saskatchewan Huskie Sarah Crooks steps into CIS women's basketball as the alltime leader in career rebounds. As a fifth-year senior she amassed 1066 rebounds and is eyeing the CIS alltime scoring record currently held by Calgary's Leighann Doan that is 1958 points from 1997-2001. Crooks, one half of the Saskatchewan duo with Ashley Dutchak, already has an impressive career in the Canadian college basketball game--you can check out her accolades at www.usbasket.com/can/can.asp?NewsNo=11 (http://www.usbasket.com/can/can.asp?NewsNo=11)
http://huskies.usask.ca/profiles.php?s=7&g=2&pid=280
www.cisport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_deatil.cfm?id=8240 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_deatil.cfm?id=8240)
Alberta Pandas will have their work cut for them on the road for a Canada West division title when they face Crooks, Dutchak, and company tonight: www.gateway.ualberta.ca/view.php?aid=7366 (http://www.gateway.ualberta.ca/view.php?aid=7366)

Brock Badgers beat then #4 Windsor Lancers
www.cisport.ca/e/mens_basketball/story_ ... fm?id=8246 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/mens_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8246)

#7 Manitoba Bisons women stomp the reasonably-improving Fraser Valley
www.cisport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8254 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8254)
www.umanitoba.ca/faculties/physed/athle ... all/womens (http://www.umanitoba.ca/faculties/physed/athletics/basketball/womens)

UBC men stay close to the now-humbled Carleton with wins against Victoria. www.gothunderbirds.ca/sports_team.asp?id=3 (http://www.gothunderbirds.ca/sports_team.asp?id=3)
www.gothunderbirds.ca/sports_team.asp?id=3&storyid=1725 (http://www.gothunderbirds.ca/sports_team.asp?id=3&storyid=1725)

Erica McGuiness dominated for the Thunderbirds against the Vikings in both games. Now they face Trinity Western. www.gothunderbirds.ca/sports_team.asp?id=4 (http://www.gothunderbirds.ca/sports_team.asp?id=4)

Winnipeg Weswomen are atop the Canada West Great Plains Division witha win over UCFV thanks to Stefanie Timmerman and Uzoma Asagwara
www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/Wesmen-news_2007_jan22 (http://www.uwinnipeg.ca/index/Wesmen-news_2007_jan22)

Thanks to US Basket bringing it in its Canadian Basket subsection, I can do this with more help.

You can find more from Hoop Life Canada as well: www.hooplife.ca/cis.php (http://www.hooplife.ca/cis.php)

On my next Canadian college basketball hoops post next week, I'll check on Guelph's Joel Richardson in hono(u)r of Australia Day and of those CIS Atlantic Conference college basketball games preceeding the ABA All-Star Weekend in Halifax.

[Durbansandshark]

Just tried getting the 411 on your mate Joel Richardson from the Guelph Gryphons on their website for the Australia Day weekend. But his name isn't currently on the roster. :? Actually, according to USBasket.com, he's currently inactive. And djrod, I tried checking up on your sis, but also on that same site, it says there are no import players in Canadian women's ball. NONE!

The #1-ranked Carleton Ravens shockingly get upset again! :shock: This time it's the York University Lions doing the damage. The Ravens surely are still reeling from the Ottawa hangover at the ScotiaBank Place and were obviously disrupted from it. The Lions were so dominating in that game that they led at the half 66:21. :shock: Carleton made it more competitive in the second half, but York still controlled from start to finish. And this was at Carleton's home court! On Senior Night! With Osvaldo Jeanty and Shawn McCleerly graduating! :shock: Tut Rausch came just in time from the injury list to make a meaningful impact with all York's five starters reaching double figures. This is York's first win over Carleton in 11 tries. So Carleton isn't a machine but human after all with a 15-2 record.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8277 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8277)

Meanwhile their female counterparts were resting up for an Ottawa weekend double against the Ottawa Gees Gees and the lowly Carleton Ravens as their eight-game win streak was on the line. Previously they defeated Ryerson (83-55) and Toronto (83-65)
www.sport.yorku.ca/interuniversity_spor ... /index.asp (http://www.sport.yorku.ca/interuniversity_sport/teams/basketball_w/index.asp)

I have neglected teams and games involving the Atlantic Conference teams so far. This past weekend as part of the ABA All-Star Weekend festivities in Halifax, Nova Scotia two Atlantic Conference games were played at the Halifax Metro Centre.But details about them will arrive in a few days. Here's the story of how the Acadia Axemen stopped the #4-ranked St. Francis Xavier X-Men. (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8271). The X-Men though win their second straight Rod Shoveller Memorial Tournament earlier this year. www.atlanticuniversitysport.com/news/070102.php (http://www.atlanticuniversitysport.com/news/070102.php) The X-Women are in the middle of the Atlantic standings, struggling to keep pace of leader Dalhousie, whom they just lost to over the weekend. www.stfx.ca/athletics/wbasketball (http://www.stfx.ca/athletics/wbasketball)
Dalhousie is the leader in the women's Atlantic game. I'll get more info on the Atlantic and Quebec schools very soon.

Before the new year started the Brock Badgers set a new school record for most 3-pointers in a game with 20. www.cisport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8196 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8196)

Also at the start of the new year, the UBC Thunderbirds completed an Ontario sweep by winning over Laurentian Lady Vees.
www.cisport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8198 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8198)

The Thunderbird men knock off Trinity Western thanks to Chris Dyck's 34 points. www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8270 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8270)

Manitoba Bison win over Winnipeg on a last-minute free throw on January 4th at the Duckworth Challenge.
www.canadawest.org/sports_team_story/as ... toryid=315 (http://www.canadawest.org/sports_team_story/aspx?id=1&storyid=315)

Why didn't I find this sooner? This is going to be Milk Energy Final 8's final year (Energie Au Lait 8 Finalistes in French) in Halifax of course, and the organizers are putting out all of the stops for a farewell before it goes to Ottawa for the next three years. So go check out the official site. you can find out info on MVPs, awards, news, past champions, tournament news, and usual stuff about tickets, seating, and directions.
www.final8.ca (http://www.final8.ca)

Nike and Adidas made inroads to the Canadian college basketball scene. STFX, York, and Guelph are signed to Nike as their official outfitter. Dalhousie and UQAM are with Adidas. I'll find more later on.

CIS Men's Rankings (as of January 23):
1. Carleton
2. Brandon
3. Concordia
4. St. Francis Xavier
5. Windsor
6. University of British Columbia
7. Cape Breton
8. Victoria
9. Ottawa
10.Alberta

[Durbansandshark]

Due to the Carleton Ravens' shocking back-to-back upset losses, we now have a new #1 ranked team in the men's Canadian basketball rankings. For the first time in a decade (the November 17 preseason poll), the Brandon Bobcats are sitting atop the men's Canadian college world. What's more, Carleton isn't second. Concordia Stingers are seconds with the Ravens fall to third.

1. Brandon
2. Concordia
3. Carleton
4. Windsor
5. UBC
6. Cape Breton
7. St. Francis Xavier
8. Victoria
9. Ottawa
10.Acadia

Women's rankings
1. McMaster
2. UBC
3. Simon Fraser
4. Saskatchewan
5. York
6. Alberta
7. Manitoba
8. Cape Breton
9. Dalhousie
10. Winnipeg

Women's Rankings (January 23-29)
1. McMaster
2. UBC
3. Simon Fraser
4. Saskatchewan
5. York
6. Alberta
7. Manitoba
8. Brock
9. Winnipeg
10.Cape Breton

Cape Breton falls off the top ten as Brock re-enters in the women. Top seven there remain unchanged.

www.universitysport.ca/e/story_detail.cfm?id=8279 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/story_detail.cfm?id=8279)

[djrod]

Just tried getting the 411 on your mate Joel Richardson from the Guelph Gryphons on their website for the Australia Day weekend. But his name isn't currently on the roster. :? Actually, according to USBasket.com, he's currently inactive. And djrod, I tried checking up on your sis, but also on that same site, it says there are no import players in Canadian women's ball. NONE!



Nah mate - she is on the score table... her last feat on the basketball court was leading the whirlies under 18 local comp in 1988 :wink:


There is a girl playing for University of Toronto (Jessica Hiew) whose hometown was Canberra but the website also mentions her High School/Club was Idaho State. Not sure if she was just born in Australia or actually lived there for some time. They were here in Kingston last week and she got a fair bit of court time and played quite well although they did lose to the Gaels' women.

http://varsityblues.ca/sports/wbasketba ... eason=2006 (http://varsityblues.ca/sports/wbasketball/team/index.php?page=rosters&sub=player&sport_name=wbasketball&player_id=1519&team_id=2&season=2006)

[Durbansandshark]

Thanks for clearing that one up djrod.

No more undefeated teams in the Canadian college basketball scene: McMaster's women's basketball team received their first loss of the 2006-07 season thanks to a tough Waterloo Warriors team last Wednesday 61-55. Waterloo has been flying lately after an upset win over Brock the week before. The Marauders can blame Kim Lee (17 points) and Kate Poulin (11 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists) from Waterloo for now being 17-1. Maruader Lindsay DeGroot had 24 points and 11 boards and Deanna Hollinger scored 11 points in a losing effort-- www.athrec.mcmaster.ca/athletics/teams/ ... 06/jan3107 (http://www.athrec.mcmaster.ca/athletics/teams/basketball/wball_news/2006/jan3107) . But McMaster rebounded and defeated the Western Ontario Mustangs the following night to secure the OUA West and home court advantage through the OUA Playoffs-- www.athrec.mcmaster.ca/athletics/teams/ ... 006/feb307 (http://www.athrec.mcmaster.ca/athletics/teams/basketball/wball_news/2006/feb307)
McMaster is signed to Nike BTW.

Considering that several of the Laurentian Lady Vees were stricken with the flu and lost the tempo of the game at the beginning, their squeak-by 57-56 win over the Queen's Golden Gaels was an incredible accomplishment and a sign of perserverance. Cassandra Carpenter and Lisa Roberts led the way for Laurentian with Claire Meadows and Sarah Barnes doing the same for Queen's. Queen's lost again after that. This time to York University.
www.goldengaels.com/interuniversity/basketballw.html (http://www.goldengaels.com/interuniversity/basketballw.html)

In a battle of the top Atlantic teams, the Acadia Axewomen came back huge in the third quarter (and even led at the beginning of the fourth) with the spirited play of Jennifer Bishop and Caitlin Crosby but still fell short against #8 Cape Breton 52-58. Debralee Ruiz led the young Capers with 17 points as her teammates Natasha Eadie and Katherine Kanaski also scored in double figures. They also swept UPEI Panthers in a pair of games over the weekend.
http://faculty.cbu.ca/athletics/asp/wbb ... sp?id=home (http://faculty.cbu.ca/athletics/asp/wbb_default.asp?id=home)

UCFV Cascades women qualified for the postseason in their debut season in the CIS with a victory over Thompson Rivers. The Cascades needed a win for themselves and a Trinity Western loss on Saturday to do that. Thompson Rivers Wolf Pack led for most of the game until the Cascades came from behind when Michelle Buchler added five straight baskets with a tiny lead. But the Wolf Pack's Kelly O'Grady scored both free throws resulting from a foul. The Cascades' playoff hopes were assured near the end of the game with Buchler drawing a foul and scoring a subsequent free throw from the line. Boston Pizza UCFV Women's Athlete of the Week Olivia Hunt led the Cascades with 13 points with Buchler and Megan McAllister each scored 12. The playoff-bound Cascades now head south along the British Columbia coast and Vancouver Island to face UBC and Victoria on their weekend road trip to close out their inaugural CIS regular season. Thompson Rivers were led by Kelley O'Grady with a game-high 19 points followed by Kali Ellis' 16 and Sarah Cameron's 13.
www.ucfv.bc.ca/athletics/sports_team_st ... toryid=246 (http://www.ucfv.bc.ca/athletics/sports_team_story.aspx?id=2&storyid=246)
www.usbasket.com/can/can.asp (http://www.usbasket.com/can/can.asp)

To be continued...

[Durbansandshark]

Thanks to McMaster suffering its first loss, the Simon Fraser Clanswomen perched atop the CIS women's basketball rankings this past week leapfrogging even over UBC.

Well, it's now playoff time north of the border. Hopefully next week I'll catch up into the college basketball scene. Conferences are undergoing semis on the (final) road to Halifax right now. It's an exciting time and I'll very much of it and more from what I missed in the past two weeks.

[Durbansandshark]

The following is one of three parts pertaining to Canadian college basketball as the scene is in the postseason--the other will arrive tomorrow, which I will focus on here. Everything will be caught up hopefully by then.

Conference allotments were made for 2007 CIS championship for Halifax's Milk Energy Final 8 hosted by the Atlantic University Sports Conference for March 16-18:
Atlantic University--2
Quebec Student Sports Federation--1
Ontario University Athletics--2
Canada West--2
Wildcard--1

Wednesday, February 28
McMaster @ Brock OUA West semifinal
Guelph @ Windsor OUA West semifinal

Thursday, March 1
UQAM @ Concordia QSSF semifinal
McGill @ Laval QSSF semifinal

Friday, March 2
Victoria @ Brandon Canada West semifinal
Saskatchewan vs UBC Can West semifinal
(Brandon hosts the CanWest Final Four)

They perserved and the Lady Thunderbirds were finally rewarded with the Number 1 spot in women's basketball. Both UBC and its Vancouver rival Simon Fraser share a 21-1 record. Both UBC got more points in votes than the Clanswomen:
1. University of British Columbia
2. Simon Fraser
3. McMaster
4. Alberta
5. Sasakatchewan
6.York
7. Cape Breton
8. Manitoba
9. Laval
10. Calgary

Men's rankings
1. Brandon
2. Concordia
3. Victoria
4. Carleton
5. UBC
6. Ottawa
7. Cape Breton
8. St. Francis Xavier
9. Acadia
10. Windsor

Once again, the British Columbia Thunderbirds and the Victoria Vikings faced each other for the CanWest Pacific Division men's title for the third straight time with UBC undefeated at home this season. Thunderbirds won an expected hotly-contested match 88-81 on Senior Night to finish at home for the regular season 18-0.

Over in the Prairie provinces, #1 Brandon Bobcats, winners of 13 straight, disposed of the Regina Cougars in the Great Plains Final with a tribute to hono(u)r Head Coach Emertus Jerry Hemmings.

Lakehead Thunderwolves can't get a second win for the season thanks to an overtime loss to the Windsor Lancers 88-81. Officially they're the worst team in CIS men's basketball. chttp://athletics.lakeheadu.ca/?page=ar ... ew&id=2208 (chttp://athletics.lakeheadu.ca/?page=articleview&id=2208)

Over in the QSSF women's game, the battle was between McGill and Bishop's at Bishop's for QSSF second place. It was an easy time as the Gaithers beat the Marlets by 20 points and outscoring the Marlets in every four quarters.

[Durbansandshark]

Part 2

A profile on Saskatchewan Huskies star Sarah Crooks, CanWest's alltime leading scorer and rebounder and reigning CIS Player of the Year.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8379 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8379)

High scoring affair (by college standards, US or Canadian) between Regina Cougars and Manitoba Bison. University of Regina won this one.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8334 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8334)

Calgary Dino women spoil Crooks' moment to be Can West alltime leading scorer as they handle Saskatchewan in an important CanWest matchup. Huskies had 22 turnovers.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8331 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8331)

Guelph defeat the not-much-better-than-the-men Lakehead Thunderwolves.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8338 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8338)

On UBC Senior Night Kim Howe scores a season-high 16 points as they clinch first place in the CanWest Pacific Division over Fraser Valley 86-65. The win gives them home court advantage throughout the CanWest playoffs.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8345 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8345)

Brock Badgers beat Waterloo to earn a first round bye in the OUA West.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8344 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8344)

Heather Angus and Emily Peaker won for the Guelph Gryphons again. This time against Laurier.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8377 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8377)

Some random stuff on the men's scene follows McMaster defeating Western Ontario, Windsor beating lowly Lakehead, Laurentian loses to the York Lions, Saskatchewan edging Calgary, UBC over Trinity Western, and McGill upends Bishop's from a 22-point defecit.
www.freeweb.com/frozenhoops13/cismen.htm (http://www.freeweb.com/frozenhoops13/cismen.htm)

Over in Toronto, the two teams based there from the OUA East Conference semis, Toronto Blues and York Lions women squared off with emerging as the victor. Before then, the Varsity Blues blasted the Ottawa Gee Gees 73-32 at home in the OUA quaterfinals. This follows for the Blues wins over Carleton, a loss to York, and snapping Lauretian's six-game win streak. Jessica Hiew, Toronto's #10, plays guard is from Canberra averages just over 8 points per game.
http://varsityblues.ca/sports/wbasketball/

Their male counterparts also clinched their OUA East playoff ticket as they finished third in the OUA East division. They downed York and Ottawa in convincing fashion en route as part of a hot streak to get there. After beating Laurentian in the OUA quarters, they heartbreakingly fell to the Gee Gees 69-68 to finish their season.
http://varsityblues.ca/sports/mbasketball

Been an up and down season for St. Mary's men, but they beat the Cape Breton Capers to finish the regular season. But the women couldn't do the same against the Cape women.
www.smu.ca/athletics/varsity/basketball-m/welcome.html (http://www.smu.ca/athletics/varsity/basketball-m/welcome.html)

To be continued...

[Durbansandshark]

The delayed Part 3--there will be a part 4

Naturally, the Canadian college game ends much earlier with far less teams than its bigger, more financially lucrative, and more well-known counterpart south of the border. But that does not mean in any way that it isn't important to be covered.

York University Lions score the big upset when they again faced the McMaster Marauders, who were #1 for most of the season, and again defeat them for the OUA title in Hamilton. But both teams have already qualified for the CIS Women's National Championship this weekend at Memorial University. It was the second consecutive the two faced each other the OUA championship, and this is York's first women's OUA title in 28 years. Sarah Brodie had 12 points and 13 boards for York.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8507 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8507)
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8602 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8602)

Guelph ends Western Mustangs' strong Cinderella season thanks to the Mustangs' poor shooting (8 of 41) in the OUA semifinals. With a rookie coach guiding a team comprised of first and second year players, it signals a bright future ahead for them.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8427 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8427)

Laurentian Lady Vees loses to Queen's Golden Gaels in OUA East semis
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8422 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8422)

Before losing their OUA title, McMaster eliminates Brock form the postseason.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8425 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8425)

The Alberta Pandas end the brilliant college careers of reigning CIS Player of the Year Sarah Crooks, who left in the final minutes to a standing ovation, and Ashley Dutchak en route to the CanWest Final Four 89-71 at home by shutting them down.

In the CanWest Final Four, UBC proved why they are the best in Canada with an emphatic win over Alberta and previously secured a spot in the CIS Championships with a win over the Winnipeg Weswomen in their Vancouver home. This is the first CanWest title for the Thunderbirds since 1994.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8562 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8562)
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8591 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8591)

Alberta beats Simon Fraser to face UBC in the other CanWest Final Four semi. Later Simon Fraser Clan beats Winnipeg to bronze--and more importantly--the third and last spot out of CanWest in the CIS Championship.
www.ubears.alberta.ca/Basketball/Women/?pt=news&ID=2441 (http://www.ubears.alberta.ca/Basketball/Women/?pt=news&ID=2441)

Over in Quebec, Bishop's Gaithers knock off McGill 62-48 with the shooting touches of Quebec League MVP Laure Pitfield and Anouck Boulanger. They faced #10-ranked Laval Rouge et Or and its stars Myriam Lemarre, Marie-Michelle Genois, and Karine Bibeau. Those three caused Laval to succeeded over UQAM in the Quebec League semifinal 71-56 as Irline Noel and Claudia Thoret were the only players from that team to score in double figures for the Citidens. Laval is undefeated--4-0--against Bishop's this season and it will be the sixth face-off in the Quebec Conference Final in eight years. Winner gets the sole bid for Quebec. UPDATE: Laval plays for the CIS championship as QSSF champs defeating once again Bishop's. The Gaiters collapsed in the second half as the home team rallied and never looked back with turnovers playing a role in the Gaiters' misfortunes. Pitfeld ran into foul trouble and eventually disqualified. Despite an ankle injury, Boulanger played with grit in her final college game with 10 points.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8538 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8538)
www.rougeetor.ulaval.ca/les_clubs/baske ... ex.html(in (http://www.rougeetor.ulaval.ca/les_clubs/basketball/basketball_accueil/index.html(in) French)
www.sports.uqam.ca/nouvelles/2006-07sem ... etBall.htm (http://www.sports.uqam.ca/nouvelles/2006-07semaineBasketBall.htm) (in French)
www.ubishops.ca/gaiters/headlines0607/wbasket33.html (http://www.ubishops.ca/gaiters/headlines0607/wbasket33.html)
www.ubishops.ca/gaiters/wbasketb/index.html (http://www.ubishops.ca/gaiters/wbasketb/index.html)
www.athletics.mcgill.ca/varsity_sports_ ... port_id=23 (http://www.athletics.mcgill.ca/varsity_sports_home.ch2?varsitysport_id=23)

In the Atlantic Conference, it was down to the Memorial Seahawks, Cape Breton Capers, Dalhousie Tigers, and the UNB. Memorial beat Cape Breton 78-61 with Meagan Seaward , Kelly Himmelman, and Erin Mullaley racking up 18, 14, and 13 points, respectively. Cecilia Romero, Debralee Ruiz, and Natasha Eadie led for the Capers with 16, 13, and 12 respectively in a losing effort. Dalhousie knocked off UNB in the other semifinal. Then the Seahawks claim the top CIS spot for the Atlantic with a convincing win in the AUS championship 68-43 at St. Mary's University. Dalhousie is the other AUS rep.
www.mun.ca/athletics/main/weekendsummar ... php?id=515 (http://www.mun.ca/athletics/main/weekendsummary/view.php?id=515)

You can also check up on www.usbasket.com/CAN/CAN.asp?women=1 (http://www.usbasket.com/CAN/CAN.asp?women=1)

So all of this shapes up for a very interesting CIS championship this weekend in St. John's, Newfoundland, home of Memorial University. Seedings are:
1. University of British Columbia (CanWest winner)
2. Alberta Pandas (CanWest runnerup)
3. York Lions (OUA champs)
4. McMaster Marauders (OUA finalist)
5. Simon Fraser Clan (CanWest bronze medalist)
6. Memorial Seahawks (Atlantic champs)
7. Laval Rouge et Or (QSSF champs)
8. Dalhousie Tigers (Atlantic finalist)

Friday, March 9
Dalhousie vs. UBC
McMaster vs. Simon Fraser
Alberta vs Laval
York vs. Memorial

Saturday, March 10
Consolation #1
Consolation #2
Semifinal #1
Semifinal #2

Sunday, March 11
5th Place
Bronze Medal game
CIS Championship

Unlike the NCAA, there are consolation games in the Canadian college basketball scene.

More will come tomorrow...

[Durbansandshark]

The CIS women's championship game will be televised live in Canada on The Score TV (3pm US CST) network.

Over in the men briefly in their conference championships--Road to Halifax (final time) and the Final 8.

In Quebec:
Concordia Stingers takes second place in the Quebec Student Sports Federation by defeating Laval 78-65 and UQAM 102-63.

Concordia defeated UQAM in the QSSF semis and then as a reward took the number 1 CIS spot for the first time in a decade in the final CIS regular season rankings. The Stingers are two days away from battling a highly-anticipated matchup against that same Laval squad. Laval Rouge et Or conquered the McGill Redmen 83-69.

In the CanWest Final Four, UBC knock off #1 Brandon, the hosts, to win the conference title. Both will go on the road to Halifax as the two CanWest representatives. Saskatchewan Huskies take the bronze over Victoria.

In the OUA East, Carleton gets some revenge on the Ottawa Gee Gees squeaking past them by two to win a trip to Halifax. Earlier the Ravens The OUA West champs is the Windsor Lancers who eliminated the McMaster Mauraders and previously the Guelph Gryphons in the semis. McMaster outdueled the Brock Badgers. Guelph had already eliminated the Western Ontario Mustangs.

The Atlantic Conference is still determining its men's champion.

So now we got half the field set: Brandon, Carleton, University of British Columbia, and Windsor. Two Atlantic teams (both finalists), the Laval/Concordia winner, and a wildcard will all be decided by the end of the weekend to complete the final Road to Halifax. More details to come soon.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/index.cfm (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/index.cfm)

[Durbansandshark]

As the big NCAA basketball tournaments gets underway south of the border, the (Final) Road To Halifax is now set in the Milk Energy/Energie Au Lait Final 8 with Concordia, St. Mary's, Acadia, and Ottawa (as the wildcard) rounding out the field this weekend. The seedings:

1. Concordia
2. University of British Columbia
3. Carleton
4. Brandon
5. Windsor
6. Acadia
7. Ottawa
8. St. Mary's

All of them will vie for the W.P. McGee Trophy with Carleton attempt to maintain their reign for the W.P. McGee that they are currently second to those great Victoria teams from 1979-85. The Milk Energy Final 8 starts Friday. www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8651 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8651)
www.cisport.ca/e/championships/m_basketball/2007 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/championships/m_basketball/2007)
Lots more info can be found here: www.final8.ca (http://www.final8.ca)

The Canadian women's college basketball has their champion crowned, but I would like to reveal that after next week to coincide with the Men's Final 8 along with other stuff that I have missed over this season.

All of the games in the 2007 Final 8 at the Halifax Metro Centre will be made available online live through online video-casting from Frederickton's News-Cast.com except for two that are televised by Canada's TSN. Requires Real Player. Cost is C$7.95 per game. Frederickton is in New Brunswick.
http://events.news-cast.com
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8675 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8675)

[Durbansandshark]

The Canadian March Madness is now over--two weeks before the US version ends theirs.

For the final time, the Milk Energy Final 8 CIS Men's Championship was played in Halifax, Nova Scotia at the Halifax Metro Centre this past weekend after 23 years there, and that concludes the 2006-07 Canadian college basketball season. And man, what a way to end the Halifax era for the Final 8. In some ways, it seems rather apt in terms of its transition to Ottawa for the next few years at least.

Well, well, just when you think you were about to count them out slightly coming into the postseason, they did it. The Carleton Ravens successfully defended once again the W.P. McGee Trophy for the fifth straight time in a nail-bitter against the Brandon Bobcats, a team that succeeded them in the CIS top spot after the Ravens lost two games in a row. The score, 52-49, became the lowest scoring championship game ever, surpassing the 1963 record set by Assumption and Acadia. Only the Victoria Vikings teams from 1979-85 won more. Whe n the postseason arrived, the Ravens summoned all of their postseason strength and experience to carry them through. Plus they have won 17 straight national championship games in Halifax. Now the debate over who is better Canadian college team heats up even more. Osvaldo Jeantry, a two-time CIS Player of the Year and fifth year senior from Glouchester, Ontario, goes out as a champion for all five years with a "mediocre" 15 points. Jeantry now joins Victoria's Eli Pasquale, David Sheehan, and Ryan Burles with five CIS rings. Shawn McLeary ends his college career on a high note too. Aaron Doorenkamp was sizzling with a game-high 20 points to make up his absence last year with a broken ankle as he earns Tournament MVP hono(u)rs. Brandon played intense defense all game long, but just came up short. Can Carleton eventually go for seven like Victoria? Let's not look into that for now. The Carleton Drive For Five is complete. Seems apt that the Ravens win as they now own the Final 8 rights starting next year in Ottawa at the ScotiaBank Centre.

In the consolation game, #1 seed Concordia Stingers edged #2 UBC Thunderbirds 95-92. Benjamin Sormonte applied 23 points and Patrick Perrotte 20 points and 13 rebounds in their final college outing. Montreal brothers Damian and Dwayne Buckley added 19 and 12 points respectively.

In the women's CIS championship game held in Newfoundland the weekend before last, it's wasn't the favo(u)red schools like UBC that won, it was the fifth-seeded Simon Fraser Clan walking away with the title with a defeat to the Alberta Pandas in a close one 72-69 to claim their third bronze baby in six years. 19-year old Laurelle Wiegl proved herself to be the best rookie women's college basketball player in all of Canada, and she confirmed that in this win for her team. The Stony Plain, Alberta native was a machine with a game-high 30 points and 12 rebounds becoming Tournament MVP. With that the Bronze Baby stays in the hands of the CanadaWest Conference for the 16th straight year. Wiegl tallyed 59 points in 72 minutes over the course of thee games in Newfoundland's Memorial University.

Congrats to the Carleton Ravens and the Simon Fraser Clan on their successful championship seasons! :D

www.final8.ca (http://www.final8.ca)
www.cisport.ca/e/championships/w_basketball/2007 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/championships/w_basketball/2007)
http://cgi.sfu.ca/~athlwww/modules.php/ ... 2&sid=1556 (http://cgi.sfu.ca/~athlwww/modules.php/name=News&file=article&new_topic=2&sid=1556)
www.carleton.ca/athletics/sports/varsit ... index.html (http://www.carleton.ca/athletics/sports/varsity/m_bball/index.html)

And I'm still not done even though the Canadian season is...

[MAIN_MAN]

Love you enthusiasm, Durb! :D

[Durbansandshark]

Told you I wasn't done with this...

ALL-CANADIAN FIRST TEAM
Osvaldo Jeanty, Carleton
Casey Archibald, British Coulmbia
Patrick Perrotte, Concordia
Andrew Spagrud, Saskatchewan
Paolo Santana, Acadia

ALL-CANADIAN SECOND TEAM
Brad Rootes, Brock
Eric Breland, Cape Breton
Erfan Nasajpour, Winnipeg
Jean-Philippe Morin, Laval
Daniel Eves, York

CIS Player of the Year (Mike Moser Memorial Trophy)--Osvaldo Jeanty
CIS Rookie of the Year (Dr. Peter Mullins Trophy)--Jean-Francois Beaulieu-Maheux, Laval
CIS Coach of the Year (Stuart W. Aberdeen Trophy)--Barnaby Craddock, Brandon
Defensive Player of the Year--Martin Ajayi, McMaster
Ken Shields Award--Justin Halleran, Brandon

To be continued...

[Durbansandshark]

Told you there's some more stuff coming from the Canadian college basketball scene.

Five-time defending champs Carleton Ravens reload with the best ever recruiting ever in hopes of a sixpeat. (http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/news/sports/story.html?id=c6508b43-07be-4f2a-b234-49ab4ce9c3cf)

Now athletes at the University of Toronto have even greater incentive to do the Varsity Blues with a C$1 million commitment to take a piece of in scholarships thanks to Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment.
www.news.utoronto.ca/bin6/070420-3102.asp (http://www.news.utoronto.ca/bin6/070420-3102.asp)

Laurentian Voyageurs men's coach Virgil Hill is stepping down after seven seasons as coach, citing personal reasons.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8791 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8791)

Many of the nation's top collegiate basketball players, both men and women, will take part in Canada Basketball's All-Canadian Be One program this weekend at Toronto's Humber College (in Etobiecoke to be exact) as they get acclimated to the national team program while they will be rewarded for the skills and talents that they will undoubtably showcase. These players will learn a lot from Canada's senior level coaches Leo Rautins and Allison Macneill with first-hand knowledge of nationa team programming. All-Star games will culminate the festivities.
www.basketball.ca/all-canadian (http://www.basketball.ca/all-canadian)
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8797 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8797)

Former North Carolina St. assistant coach Kerby Court was announced as the new head coach for Trinity Western Spartans women's team.

Earlier this month, Montreal's Dawson College Blues defeated Douglas College Royals to win the CCAA Men's National Championship. John Abbott College Islanders knocked off Mount Royal College Cougars for third place.

To be continued...

[Durbansandshark]

Quite a contrast from the immense success of their male counterparts. The Carleton Ravens women's team--a team on the other end of the success spectrum--terminated coach Christie Lauzon, a former Vermont Catamount, after four years with a 27-61 record and two OUA East playoff berths.

ALL-CANADIAN WOMEN 2006-07
First Team:
Sarah Crooks, Saskatchewan Huskies F
Lindsay DeGroot, McMaster Maurauders G
Laurie Pitfield, Bishop's Gaithers F
Katherine Quakenbush, Memorial G
Erica McGuiness, UBC Thunderbirds G

Second Team:
Uzoma Asagwara, Winnipeg Weswomen G
Nathifa Weekes, McGill Marlets G
Cassandra Carpenter, Laurentian Lady Vees F
Marie-Michelle Genois, Laval Rouge D'Or F
Amanda Anderson, Western Ontario Mustangs G

All-Rookie Team
Laurelle Wiegl, Simon Fraser Clan F
Marie-Michelle Genois, Laval Rouge D'Or F
Gabrielle Gheyssen, Regina G
Alex Legge, Dalhousie Tigers G
Kate Goggins, Laurentian Lady Vees G

Player of the Year--Sarah Crooks
Rookie of the Year--Laurelle Wiegl
Defensive Player of the Year--Rachel Hart, Manitoba Bison
Coach of the Year--Scott Edwards, Alberta Pandas
Sylvia Sweeney Award--Stephanie Yallin, Guelph Gryphons
Tracey Mcleod Award--Julia Wilson, Simon Fraser Clan

Stephane Barrie renews his contract with the Western Ontario Mustangs women.

To be continued...

[Durbansandshark]

The OUA officially adopts the FIBA rules of a wider trapazoid key and reduced shot clock next season in the fall. Plus, the CIS women's game could have regional tournaments in their playoff structure leading up to the CIS title come 2010.
www.hamiltonspectator.com/NASApp/cs/Con ... 2274690756 (http://www.hamiltonspectator.com/NASApp/cs/ContentServer?pagename=hamilton/Layout/Article_Type1&c=Article&cid=1179289803011&call_pag eid=1112274690688&col=1112274690756)

[Durbansandshark]

Tuesday May 22 Canada Basketball announced its national team squads, and the CIS is benefiting from this from their coaching ranks:
Dave Smart (Carleton)--senior men's assistant coach under Leo Rautins
Chris O'Rouke (Guelph)--senior men's national development team head coach
Darrell Glenn (Humber College)--senior men's national development assistant coach
Dave DeAvario (Ottawa)--senior men's development assistant coach
Craig Beaucamp (Victoria)--junior men's assistant coach
Dave Wilson (Queen's University)--development senior women's basketball team head coach
Donna Branch (Lethbridge)--development senior women's team assistant
Linda Marquis (Laval)--young women national team head coach
Deb Huband (UBC)--young women national team assistant coach
Angie Macleod (Acadia)--young women assistant national team coach
Rich Chambers (UBC assistant)--junior women assistant coach

Carleton Ravens women's fortunes now rests on Taffe Charles, a standout from the Ravens years of 1990-1995. Charles replaces Christie Lauzon.

Concordia Stingers are currently in Tel Aviv, Israel competing in the Friendship Games.

[Durbansandshark]

As a reward for winning the CIS women's title Simon Fraser gets for a top Canadian recruit Carly Graham from Surrey, B.C., arguably Canada's best 3-point shooter in British Columbia and comes from a basketball family with a coach for a dad (Stu Atkinson) and a former player (Janet Atkinson) imparting that work ethic and immense knowledge. Richmond's Katie Miyazaki also joins Graham as members of the SFU 2007 recruiting class boosting 11 letterwomen already from the 2007 champs.
http://cgi.sfu.ca/~athlwww/modules.php? ... e&sid=1559 (http://cgi.sfu.ca/~athlwww/modules.php?names=News&file=article&sid=1559)

Canada Basketball's National Elite Development Academy 6'2" standout Zara Huntley joins the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds, SFU's cross-Vancouver rivals. She gives them a replenished inside/outside presence that is now lost thanks to the graduations of Kelsey Blair, Kim Howe, and Julie Little. Huntley, who was at the time the only player on the 12-person roster to join a university, has an incredible and highly regarded leaping ability and can grab the rim to go with that versatility. The Halifax native attended Queen Elizabeth High, whom she led to the Nova Scotia provincial championship game.
www.gothunderbirds.ca/team_sports_story ... oryid=1865 (http://www.gothunderbirds.ca/team_sports_story.asp?id=4&storyid=1865)

The Vancouver rivalry continues....

[Durbansandshark]

Laurentian Voyageurs welcome home former Canadian national basketball team star Shawn Swords as their new men's basketball coach. He played for his alma mater from 1992 to 1997.

The Concordia Stingers have won the Friendship Games held in Tel Aviv in competition featuring over 30 college teams from around the world.

Now Canada, for all practical means and purposes, has officially left the US camp and joins the FIBA rules, which was part of its Be One campaign with the Manitoban high school and minor basketball scenes electing to join the FIBA rules route.

The rest of the CCAA National Basketball Championship results:
4th Place--Mount Royal College Cougars (Calgary, AB)
5th Place--Mount St. Vincent University Mystics (Halifax, NS)
6th Place--Fanshawe College Falcons (London, ON)
7th Place--Okanagan Lakers (Kamloops, BC)
8th Place--Nova Scotia Agricultural College Rams (Truro, NS)

[Durbansandshark]

The University of Saskatchewan last hosted the CIS women's Nationals game in 1982 (Victoria Vikings won that year), and that was the only time for the Huskies...until now. It was recently announced USask will host next year's women's CIS Nationals, and the Sask people are no doubt excited about this.

[Durbansandshark]

Fresh from its debut season in the CIS, The University College of Fraser valley Cascades made a splash to be more competitive by hiring 2007 CIS Coach of the Year Barnaby Craddock from the Brandon Bison.

York University Lions men's team will play in a preseason game against Final Four finalist LSU Tigers.

More details to come later.

UPDATE: news on Craddock's hiring at UCFV can be found here (http://www.ucfv.ca/athletics/sports_team_story.aspx?id=1&storyid=303). Also the Cascades will play against Marquette, Idaho, Air Force, and Boise St. in the preseason.

York University details versus LSU is found at: www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8879 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8879)

[Durbansandshark]

Happy belated Canada Day to all those Canadians reading this! :)

Canada Basketball and the CIS have now released a new handbook for prospective women's Canadian basketball student-athletes, coaches, and athletes entitled Canada First (Canada Premiere in French): www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/canadafirst.pdf (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/canadafirst.pdf)
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8894 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8894)

Carleton are a great program, I actually got hold of their primary offence just a few weeks ago.. GREAT PLAY!

[Durbansandshark]

This young woman is not far removed from her college playing days, but the Waterloo Warriors hires Christin Dickinson to be their new women's basketball co-head coach with Mano Wetsa. Dickinson previously was an assistant at her alma mater McMaster, where she enjoyed a brilliant career at the Hamilton school from 2001-2005. Maybe Dickinson can rub some of that brilliance on the Warriors.

www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8896 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8896)

[N B Net]

Durban,
do you know if John Campbell applied for the Laurentian job?
Thanks for the updates they are great.
As for the "Canada First" that was a big push from Fred Nykamp, the ex Canada Basketball director. He didn't want any athletes heading south. I tend to disagree with this train of thought, as I believe the competition is better down south and the athletes will be challenged a lot more against the faster and fitter NCAA athletes.

[Durbansandshark]

Canada finished seventh in the men's Pan American Games basketball tournament in Rio De Janerio with a team filled with Canadian college basketball all-stars like Carleton's Osvaldo Jeanty. Their only win came against the US Virgin Islands 69-60 for seventh place.

UPDATE 8-7-2007: The only other Canucks on the Pan Am Games roster who played in a Canadian university are Jeanty's Carleton ex-teammates F Aaron Doorenkamp and G Ryan Bell. Other players were from US colleges (Syracuse's Andy Rautins, UNC-Wilmington's Vladimir Kuljanin, Kentucky's Sheray Thomas, and Santa Clara's Sean Denison) with an ABA player (Quebec City Kebekwa's Paul Lemard) and several overseas pros.

[Durbansandshark]

New Laurentian men's coach Shawn Swords announced the hiring of Mark Bennett, Cory Bailey, Ken Wallenius, and Aaron Sidenburg as his coaching staff.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8916 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8916)
www.luvoyageurs.com/basketballm/index.html (http://www.luvoyageurs.com/basketballm/index.html)

[Durbansandshark]

I'll get to some articles about the Halifax Final 8 soon.

[Durbansandshark]

Former McGill Redman 5'11" point guard Domineco Marcario was invited to play in the Canadian senior men's development team for a training camp in Argentina earlier this month.

Former Carleton Ravens star and All-Canadian Osvaldo Jeanty, a 5-time CIS champ, has signed a pro contract with Germany's TSV 1861 Noerdlingen.

[Durbansandshark]

If you go to Frozen Hoops, you will see the full schedule of the CIS-NCAA Labo(u)r Day Weekend clashes to the right of the site. Over 60 in them (men and women), all in Canada. www.frozenhoops.com/id5.html (http://www.frozenhoops.com/id5.html)

[Durbansandshark]

Like to get into all of the CIS-NCAA Labo(u)r Day matchups. But to get it all started, here's a couple:

Five-time CIS champs Carleton holds its own against Illinois but loses in a heartbreaker: www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8968 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8968)

Oklahoma Sooners drop UBC Thunderbirds 81-62:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8990 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8990)

Defending women's champs Simon Fraser stop Arkansas:
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8993 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8993)

[Durbansandshark]

Six CIS women's basketball alums will represent the Maple Leaf for the upcoming Tournament of the Americas in Valdivia, Chile in the hopes of qualifying for Beijing with two spots open for the Americas, one of which will surely go to the USA:

Sarah Crooks (Saskatchewan)
Uzoma Asagwara (Winnipeg)
Therese Kliendiest (now Therese Gabrielle) (Simon Fraser)
Isabelle Grenier (Laval)
Sheila Townsend (University of British Columbia)
Devon Campbell (Simon Fraser)

The Canadians will start their campaign today against Jamaica. More will come on my Some Random Thoughts About International Basketball posts.

GO CANADA!!! :D

[Durbansandshark]

Correction: only ONE spot is open to the Americas, the winner. So Canada's best hope realistically is qualifying for the Olympic qualification tournament. Here's the press release with the full Canadian roster:
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=9099 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9099)

[Durbansandshark]

As previously mentioned on Some Random Thoughts on International Basketball, the Canadian women's basketball team that featured six former CIS stars, alas, will not qualify for Beijing, not even the Olympic Qualification Tournament because they finished fifth in Valdivia, Chile.

Preseason time has started in the CIS and I will also get the rest of the CIS-NCAA Labo(u)r Day results--both men's and women's--very soon with some other stuff.

[Durbansandshark]

Ryerson defeated by Morehead St. :
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8973 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8973)

Brock 77 Liberty 79:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8975 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8975)

Carleton loses to Villanova despite Doorenkamp's 30 points:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8977 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8977)

Guelph Gryphons lose to LSU:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8980 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8980)

Alabama rolls over McGill Redmen:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8974 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8974)

Simon Fraser Clan loses a close one to Air Force:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8988 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8988)

Dwayne and Damian Buckley help Concordia sting Illinois:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8979 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8979)

5-time CIS champs Carleton defeat Alabama at Ravens Palooza:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8981 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8981)

Queen's College loses big to Villanova:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8985 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8985)

Simon Fraser knocked off by Oklahoma:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8986 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8986)

Oral Roberts crushes Guelph:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8982 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8982)

Ryerson runs out of steam against Duquense:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8987 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8987)

Illinois bests McGill in 2OT 107-103:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8998 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8998)

Texas A&M drops Brock 106-90:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=8995 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8995)

Canadian college basketball season just wrapped their preseason tournaments with the schools facing each other. I'll get to those by next week along with the Canadian women facing their NCAA counterparts.

[Durbansandshark]

Before I actually begin to get the women's CIS-NCAA preseason Labo(u)r Day scores, I will like to make a CIS Ozhoops boards YouTube debut featuring the Saskatchewan Huskies men's team and the Alberta Pandas

Saskatchewan Huskies 2007-08 outlook from Global TV Sports in Regina, Saskatchewan:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfmV5Bh3Wz4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfmV5Bh3Wz4)

Saskatchewan vs. Memorial highlights Husky Hoops preseason presented by Global Sport's Esther Madziya:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=AN58DHKAZfI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AN58DHKAZfI)

Simon Fraser Clan vs. UCSB Gauchos recap:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCVekeaA9Dc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCVekeaA9Dc)

A preview from last season of the Alberta Golden Pandas with Scott Edwards acting as interim coach for the 2006-07 season from SHAW TV in Edmonton, Alberta:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpJ_vfyD9sA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpJ_vfyD9sA)

A small sampling of the Capital Classic at Ottawa's ScotiaBank Place between the Ottawa Gee Gees and CIS champs Carleton Ravens. Josh Gibson-Bascomb scores a clutch jumper here to seal the win for Ottawa:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=CawhjAqkOaM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CawhjAqkOaM)

[Durbansandshark]

The first CIS polls are out for 2007-08 season in both men's and women's basketball released today. To no one's surprise, the defending champs are at the top.

MEN:
1.Carleton
2.Windsor
3.University of British Columbia
4.St. Mary's
5.Concordia
6.Alberta
7.Acadia
8.Brandon
9.Queen's College
10.Toronto

Outside Top Ten: Cape Breton, Saskatchewan, Western Ontario, Guelph, Calgary

WOMEN:
1.Simon Fraser
2.University of British Columbia
3.Memorial
4.McMaster
5.Alberta
6.Dalhousie
7.Regina
8.Laval
9.Calgary
10.York

Outside Top Ten: UCFV, Saskatchewan, Toronto, Western Ontario, Cape Breton, Manitoba, Victoria

The big story in the Canadian college scene is whether Carleton Ravens can make it a "sixpeat" now that All-Canadian Osvaldo Jeanty is currently plying his trade professionally in Germany. It could happen, but that's so hard to do. If you want a surprise team, I'd say look for Toronto in both teams. They may have a breakout season. Can Canada West go for 17 in a row for the Bronze Baby after SFU. How will Saskatchewan cope without All-Canadian Sarah Crooks?

Since I live in the US, Canadian college basketball is oh so easy to overlook with our bigger game here. You have to have a special kind of curiousity to venture beyond the narrow confines, which is in short supply here. Are there any published previews of the Canadian scene north of the border? Not that I know of. So the Internet is a godsend. Here's a look at the ultra-tough Canada West women's preview:
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=9471 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9471)
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=9472 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9472)

Simon Fraser Clan knocks off New Mexico 76-63:
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8978 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8978)

Queen's Golden Gaels lose to 81-65 to Toledo:
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8984 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8984)

UBC upends Wichita St.:
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball?s ... fm?id=8992 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball?story_detail.cfm?id=8992)

SFU again defeats Arkansas thanks to Kelowna, BC's Robyn Buna and 25 points:
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=8993 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=8993)

Just before the start of the regular season, a lot of the women's teams took during the now-closing month of October to fight breast cancer. But this will take place all throughout the 2007-08 season up until the CIS championship. Next time, I'll look more into the preseason.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=9198 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9198)

Now some of the men's teams like Carleton are playing stateside. The Ravens just lost to Louisville in an exhibition at Freedom Hall.

The Vancouver rivalry between SFU and UBC starts the season on Halloween weekend with mixed results:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=26d_aWRmnAs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26d_aWRmnAs)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGuN2zZz1Uo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGuN2zZz1Uo)

Carleton Ravens' new men's basketball website:
http://www2.carleton.ca/goravens/news/cat/?=18
The women's:
http://webhost.carleton.ca/goravens/news/cat/?=17

[Durbansandshark]

Concordia Stingers prepare for the Nike Tournament at their gym:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9206 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9206)

Brandon Bobcats hosted the Super 8 Invitational preseason tournament:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9240 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9240)

Trinity Western Wolf Pack host the Bank of Montreal Nesbitt Burns Desert Classic:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9247 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9247)

Brandon Bobcats open Super 8 with a convincing win:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9268 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9268)

Carleton Ravens win 18th House-Laughton Hoops Classic:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9285 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9285)

Toronto wins Naismith Classic:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9318 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9318)

McGill sweeps Redbird Basketball Classic:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9319 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9319)

Winnipeg wins in OT over Concordia:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9324 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9324)

Guy Vetrie Tournament preview showcasing the creme de la creme in Canadian college basketball:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9259 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9259)

Brandon Bobcats excited over rematch against Carleton:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9350 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9350)

Lakeland loses to Regina:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9362 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9362)

Victoria Vikings falters at first hurdle in Vetrie Classic:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9372 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9372)

[Durbansandshark]

With the US Thanksgiving Day winding down over here (the Canadian version was on the second Monday of October), so I'll try to get in some Canadian college hoops stuff during this Thanksgiving weekend that haven't done in years past.

Carleton and Simon Fraser are presently both undefeated and atop the CIS basketball rankings for men's and women's Canadian college basketball respectively for the past four weeks. Both teams were voted unamiously to stay at #1 in their respective polls. Rankings will return soon.

Barnaby Craddock must be doing some magic job at University College at Fraser Valley right now after leaving Brandon. The Kamloops, BC-based Cascades are now at third place in the Canada West Conference's Pacific Division stopping a four-game losing streak with an upset win at home over SFU 79-73. Their female counterparts have a shot to overtake the Victoria Vikings with wins at Vancouver Island to keep pace with the two Vancouver schools UBC and SFU.

Speaking of upset wins, the Ottawa Gees Gees surprised the previously-unbeaten Windsor Lancers 73-68. They meet again on Friday in Ottawa before the Gee Gees face Western Ontario.

Cyril Indome, the former Manitoba high school player of the year last season, returns home to Winnipeg and breaks the Manitoban hearts with a last-second jumper for Victoria over the Manitoba Bison with Ryan McKay lighted it up for the women Vikings against Manitoba.
www.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/ne ... 6a207f9973 (http://www.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/news/sports/story.html?id=d290983b-7bc3-406e-8321-886a207f9973)

[Durbansandshark]

The Carleton Ravens showed why they are STILL the class of men's Canadian college basketball AND undefeated with their experience, so the title will still have to go through Ottawa. Aaron Doorenkamp, with his confidence soaring after his Canadian national team tour of duty and a greater value to his team solidified, was just SICK with 33 points and 17 points as the Ravens stopped OUA rivals (from the OUA West division) the Windsor Lancers by 8 in a 81-73 win. The Odessa, Ontario native showed his skills in front of a packed crowd. With Carleton 6-0, they are atop the OUA East with no losses and will make their way to western Ontario with matches against the Brock Badgers and the Guelph Gryphons. Windsor falls to 4-2 in the OUA West.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9949 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9949)

I rarely mention any love toward the Trinity Western Spartans in contrast to likes of Carleton when I post about Canadian college basketball. But I will here. Their game against Manitoba Bison was full of drama right to the end with a win for them 83-80 at home Saturday. Jason Keegstra led with 18 points and 7 rebounds with three other players in double figures while Winnipeg's own Issac Mensah produced a game-high 27 points in a losing effort including 16 points in the second half.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9976 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9976)

Another team I neglect out west is the unranked Calgary Dino. They swept the past weekend over the Alberta Golden Bears from Ross Bekkering's monster play.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9981 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9981)

Simon Fraser men go .500 winning over the Winnipeg Wesmen.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... fm?id=9978 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9978)

Brock Badgers had to endure a double OT bout thriller against the University of Toronto Varsity Blues 97-91 in the women's game this past weekend coming out as winners knocking them off from first place in the OUA East as go .500 for the season so far.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=9974 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9974)
www.varsityblues.ca/news/?id=9367 (http://www.varsityblues.ca/news/?id=9367)

The TWU Lady Spartans equaled their all-time program best of seven wins at this stage after winning over visiting Manitoba.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=9982 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9982)

SFU, the women's champs, are still undefeated and #1 after going over the 2-8 Winnipeg Weswomen, their 21st straight win. They are now 10-0.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=9977 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9977)

#4 ranked McMaster is still a powerhouse in the women's game. Laurentian is just the latest team that can't overpower them. The Lady Vees started the game with a 6-0 run...but you know what happened after that.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... fm?id=9986 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=9986)

[Durbansandshark]

CIS Rankings 11-6-2007

WOMEN:
1. Simon Fraser
2. British Columbia
3. Memorial
4. McMaster
5. Alberta
6. Dalhousie
7. Laval
8. Regina
9. Calgary
10.York

Other votes: UCFV, Western Ontario, Toronto, Manitoba, Cape Breton, Saskatchewan, Victoria

MEN
1. Carleton
2. Windsor
3. Concordia
4. Alberta
5. British Columbia
6. St. Mary's
7. Acadia
8. Brandon
9. Queen's
10.Toronto

Other votes: Calgary, Guelph, Winnipeg, Cape Breton, St. Francis Xavier, Brock

11-13-2007
WOMEN
1. Simon Fraser
2. British Columbia
3. Memorial
4. McMaster
5. Dalhousie
6. Laval
7. Alberta
8. Regina
9. Calgary
10.York

MEN
1. Carleton
2. Windsor
3. Concordia
4. British Columbia
5. St. Mary's
6. Alberta
7. Brandon
8. Acadia
9. Toronto
10.Guelph

Other votes: Ottawa got consideration with 4 votes. Regina (14)

There's something to be said about continuity, especially at Brandon, but it is at the wrong end for them. Consequently, a revolving door of short-term women's coaches are to blame for a lack of recognition and power for the Brandon women.
www.thegatewayonline.ca/revolving-door- ... -1393.html (http://www.thegatewayonline.ca/revolving-door-of-coaches-to-blame-for-bobcats-record-20071119-1393.html)

[Durbansandshark]

University of Victoria Vikes had their four-game winning winning streak snapped by the Winnipeg Wesmen in early November and no answer to All-Canadian Erfan Nasajpour and his 41 points. The Winnipeg women did likewise by beating them with 12 three-pointers.
www.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/ne ... b19717e690 (http://www.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/news/sports/story.html?id=7f5692cc-ea27-4f7e-a7d8-11b19717e690)

Regina loses two on the road to Alberta and then Saskatchewan after winning four straight. But the women did better.
www.canada.com/reginaleaderpost/news/sp ... 5de14bfbb6 (http://www.canada.com/reginaleaderpost/news/sports/story.html?id=fbd8fa3c-266f-4f4a-b7e9-ad5de14bfbb6)

Some Canadian Atlantic college basketball news for you--something else neglected last season by me: Cape Breton Capers move into first place in the men's Atlantic University Sports basketball conference with a 105-94 win over New Brunswick.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10118 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10118)

Toronto upsets #6 Windsor.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10104 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10104)

[Durbansandshark]

CIS basketball is currently undergoing its annual holiday break, so that gives me some time to catch up on the news involving the Canadian college basketball scene.

To start with, www.usbasket.com/can/can.asp (http://www.usbasket.com/can/can.asp) has several interviews of men's coaches and players--click on the plus sign of each interview to read them at length.

Over in the women, defending champs Simon Fraser University are comfortably at the top of the women's game with 24 wins in a row-again click on the plus sign for First Half of the Season Defines Leaders.
www.usbasket.com/can/can.asp?women=1 (http://www.usbasket.com/can/can.asp?women=1)

[Durbansandshark]

Congratulations to Waterloo's Gillian Maxwell on being the OUA West's alltime leader in rebounds and second overall in the OUA.
www.universitysports.ca/e/w_basketball/ ... m?id=10140 (http://www.universitysports.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10140)

Thompson Rivers WolfPack women's team have signed two heavily recriuted Team BC players Diane Schuetze (aka "Shoot-zee" out of Vernon Secondary) from Vernon, BC and Surrey's 6 footer Jessica Franz (Elgin Park). Coach Scott Reeves couldn't be pleased.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10172 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10172)

Victoria Vikes' women first half recap:
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10185 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10185)

[Durbansandshark]

Another chapter of the now intense Vancouver crosstown rivalry between #2 UBC and champs #1 SFU is about to take the stage once more in the women's game in a matter of days.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10249 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10249)

There has been several tournaments that went on during the holidays. To start of with, Brock Badgers win the 41st MTS Wesmen Classic, hosted by the University of Winnipeg.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10234 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10234)

[Durbansandshark]

Lakehead Thunderwolves women comeback in the fourth quarter and defeat the Guelph Gryphons 67-64 in Thunder Bay, Ontario.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10335 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10335)

Western Ontario Mustangs stops Brock Badgers in OT 80-76
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10337 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10337)

A profile on SFU women's coach Bruce Langford, who never actually played basketball. A remarkable thing considering now he's one of the top Canadian women's basketball coaches.
www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/L ... ory/Sports (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080107.CISMAIN07/TPStory/Sports)

McGill stuns #3 Concordia Stingers the first time in 6 years.
www.universitysports.ca/e/m-basketball/ ... m?id=10326 (http://www.universitysports.ca/e/m-basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10326)

Ottawa Gees Gees beat Laurentian team.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10325 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10325)

Defending champs Carleton still doing their thing that made them a Canadian powerhouse. Like creaming the York Lions.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10327 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10327)

[Durbansandshark]

At last some scores to begin with. Thankfully since this Canadian college basketball as there are fraction of schools in the high level as opposed to the NCAA D1, there won't be an abundance. Nevertheless I'll do this in blocks. Funny how things start out in the West Coast.

MEN
October 25
Trinity Western 77 British Columbia 104

October 26
Victoria 79 Simon Fraser 66
UCFV 88 Thompson Rivers 85

October 27
British Columbia 92 Simon Fraser 55
Victoria 71 Trinity Western 56
UCFV 82 Thompson Rivers 74

[Durbansandshark]

Before I begin this latest post on the Canadian college basketball scene, I want to dedicate this post in memory to those seven Bathhurst High School basketball players and a coach's wife, teacher Elizabeth Lord, who were all killed in an accident in Bathurst, New Brunswick last Saturday on their way home from Moncton to face the Purple Knights. The van, a 15-seat Ford Wagon, that they were traveling in fishtailed and slammed head-on to a tractor trailer on the road. Only the coach (Wayne Lord), his daughter, and two players survived. The crash happened five minutes away from where their parents and friends were awaiting for them a nearby McDonald's. A few of their teammates were out sick and stayed home. There were no snow tires, and the team may not be able to continue this season.
www.cbc.ca/canada/new-brunswick/story/2 ... crash.html (http://www.cbc.ca/canada/new-brunswick/story/2008/01/15/bathurst-crash.html)

Port Coquitlam High's Sam Freeman is the first prized recruit for the UCFV Cascades in 2008:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10503 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10503)

Moustapha El Zanaty comes off the bench and scores 28 points for McGill but UQAM has a surprise 89-59 win over the Redman.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10427 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10427)

Thompson Rivers upset a clearly drained Simon Fraser 91-75 three days after its OT loss to rival UBC.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10433 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10433)

#1 Carleton remains perfect and defeats Toronto
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10429 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10429)

Thanks to Henry Pekkering, the #4 Calgary Dinos snuffed out the winless and hapless Lethbridge Pronghorns 102-72 with Pekkering's career perfromance of 39 points and extend their home winning streak to seven.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10449 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10449)

Trinity Western Spartans hang on over Thompson Rivers 102-96 after the latter beats SFU.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10455 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10455)

UCFV falls to SFU 74-71:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10456 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10456)

Brock knocks off #6 Guelph Gryphons 87-79
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10457 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10457)

Canada West upper (Pacific) division standout Victoria Vikings eliminate #8 Brandon Bobcats. Forward Tyler Hass attacks with 23 points.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10458 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10458)

Dinos do it agin to those poor Pronghorns by dominating the glass
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10459 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10459)

Simon Fraser rebounds from Thompson Rivers with a more dedicated effort to stop the Cascades to make UCFV go 6-10
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10463 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10463)

In the middle of the OUA West standings, the Lakehead Thunderwolves lose to Laurier Golden Hawks. Kiraan Posey moves up to fifth in alltime scorers for Lakehead.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10464 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10464)

Manitoba Bison make it two home wins in a row with a victory over the Alberta Golden Bears
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10465 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10465)

Toronto Varsity Blues upsets #6 Ottawa Gee Gees
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10462 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10462)

Queen's Golden Gaels too balanced for Laurentian Voyaugers
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10467 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10467)

[Durbansandshark]

Women's Canadian college hoops scores--Round 1

October 25
British Columbia 67 Trinity Western 35

October 26
Simon Fraser 64 Victoria 57

October 27
Trinity Western 60 Victoria 58
Simon Fraser 73 British Columbia 41

October 31
Laurier 71 Brock 59
Windsor 72 Guelph 52
McMaster 78 Western Ontario 54

#1 Carleton and #5 Ottawa renew their intense Ottawa college basketball rivalry and for national supremacy tonight at the 2nd Annual MBNA Capital Hoops Classic. Last time last year, with the Gee Gees pulling the upset with the largest crowd ever recorded for a Canadian college basketball conference game at the Scotiabank Place, the Ravens are now seek revenge. A doubleheader is actually planned with the women's teams from both schools (and both are at the wrong side of the victory column this season with Ottawa still winless) preceeding the main course and shoot (pun intended) to shatter that attendance record, maybe into the 10,000 barrier.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10685 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10685)

Victoria Vikings women's four-game win streak snapped by UBC's fourth quarter comeback.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10590 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10590)

Lakehead Thunderwolves lose thriller to McMaster Mauraders
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10591 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10591)

Ryerson Rams stops Queen's 53-45
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10599 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10599)

Laurentian keeps Ottawa Gee Gees winless
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10600 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10600)

Calgary Dino come up from OT over the Regina Cougars
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10601 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10601)

In spite of a Bishop's comeback, it wasn't enough to defeat UQAM
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10602 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10602)

UCFV's deep post game pushes them win against Manitoba
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10616 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10616)

McMaster dominates Laurentian
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m/id=10617 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm/id=10617)

Thompson Rivers woes continue as they go 1-17 with Winnipeg being the latest perpetrators
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10618 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10618)

Laurentian dashes Carleton's hopes for a rare victory with Cassandra Carpenter making school milestones along the way.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10620 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10620)

Western Ontario contains Guelph
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10622 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10622)

This would not have happened if Sarah Crooks was here for the Saskatchewan Huskies whenever they faced SFU
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10619 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10619)

Alberta Pandas hold on against Trintity Western Spartans at home
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10624 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10624)

If they couldn't get UQAM, Bishop's Gaithers surely got #8 Laval Rouge D'Or in the QUBL doubleheader (men's details featured here too)
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10626 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10626)

Thunderwolves-Lancers OUA West weekend preview
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=10656 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10656)

[Durbansandshark]

Carleton's being Carleton over the Ryerson Rams
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10460 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10460)

Sam Anthony gets himself a double double for McGill as they rally
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10482 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10482)

SFU finally stops their 11-game losing streak to UBC, starring Victoria's Greg Wallis
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10515 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10515)

Lakehead vs. McMaster men's weekend preview
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10522 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10522)

#8 Brock beats Waterloo 72-63
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10523 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10523)

Western Ontario Mustangs lose in a heartbreaker in Windsor
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m/id=10531 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm/id=10531)

Toronto Varsity Blues basketball coaches both call for a "whiteout" for every home game from fans in both of their respective teams' postseason push.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10535 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10535)

UCFV Cascades get ready for a Manitoba trip as they face Winnipeg Wesmen and Manitoba Bison
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10537 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10537)

Laurentian basketball's big weekend
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10539 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10539)

General info for Victoria-British Columbia in battle for Canada West Pacific's first place
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10540 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10540)

Lane Manson makes his home basketball debut for Saskatchewan
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10549 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10549)

Info on Thompson Rivers WolfPack's only home games this month for both teams this past weekend
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10550 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10550)

Brock welcomes Calgary and winless Lethbridge to their BU Gym
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10553 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10553)

Ottawa Gee Gees eye York University Lions and Laurentian Voyaugeurs in the pursuit of 1st in the OUA East.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10562 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10562)

Calgary Dinos hit the raod for a prairies road trip
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10565 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10565)

Saskatchewan Huskie Andrew Spagrud closes in on the alltime Canada West scoring record
www.universitysport.ca/e/m-basketball/s ... m?id=10567 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m-basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10567)

#2 Calgary beats Regina Cougars
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10569 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10569)

Cascades beat Winnipeg in double OT
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10570 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10570)

UBC Thunderbirds topple Vikes for first
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10571 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10571)

[Durbansandshark]

So did the 5-time CIS champs Carleton Ravens get revenge from the Gee Gees for stopping their win streak in Ottawa?

Yes, they did in thrilling fashion! (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10768) :D

Victoria Vikings' defense stifles the SFU Clan
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10748 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10748)

Four Cascades players hit double figures as they down the now 1-17 Lethbridge Pronghorns
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10779 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10779)

Brandon sweeps the weekend series over Manitoba
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10782 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10782)

Windsor Lancers show why they atop the OUA West in their weekend sweep of the Lakehead Thunderwolves
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10783 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10783)

In their final home game Laurentian Voyaguers win convincingly over Ryerson
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10784 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10784)

Calgary Dinos upends Thompson Rivers Wolfpack
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10780 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10780)

Acadia Axemen surely will fall from their #2 ranking with their loss to Cape Breton
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10818 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10818)

Brock beats Guelph
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10798 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10798)

[Durbansandshark]

We're rapidly approaching the Canadian college basketball postseason. Will 19-0 Carleton get a sixpeat in their hometown of Ottawa for the Final 8? We shall see. Right now I got a couple of clips from the 2008 MBNA Capital Hoops Classic at the ScotiaBank Place, which served as a dry run for the Final 8 with a ScotiaBank Place CIS basketball attendance record of 9124 fans.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUt72gihuQs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUt72gihuQs) (Ottawa Gee Gees starting lineup intros--with all of the razzmatazz from an NBA or NBL game)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbnRfFowszxw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbnRfFowszxw) (a brief play in the game with Carleton scoring a jumper)

A blog is here devoted to Canadian college basketball that I'm happy to introduce: www.cishoops.ca (http://www.cishoops.ca) and don't forget www.hooplife.ca (http://www.hooplife.ca) !

Brozozowicz was brilliant for the Western Ontario Mustangs as Western rebounds in the second half against Laurier
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10763 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10763)

SFU gets late free throws to edge Victoria in a game rife with fervor
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10781 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10781)

Trinity Western Spartans' valient second half comeback falls short
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10778 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10778)

Aaron Spragud was 64 points away from the Canada West scoring record
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10819 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10819)

TWU gets their three wins forfeited thanks to Lucas Goltz's ineligibilty
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10824 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10824)

Lakehead vs. Western weekend preview
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10829 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10829)

Carleton afflicts damage on the poor little Royal Military College Paladins 88-37 and stays unbeaten
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10840 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10840)

Victoria hosted Saskatchewan and Alberta in their home finale at Shield's Court
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10848 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10848)

Laurentian salutes their graduating players against their OUA divisional foes
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10854 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10854)

Trinity Western says goodbye to seniors Luke Robinson and Heather Van Wieren in the final home games of 2007-08
www.universitysport.ca/e/m-basketball/s ... m?id=10841 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m-basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10841)

#8 Brock beats McMaster
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10853 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10853)

Guelph Gryphons fall to Laurier Golden Hawks
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10857 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10857)

Winnipeg AD Bill Wedlake retires after 24 years
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10866 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10866)

The surprising University College at Fraser Valley sets their eyes on 3rd place in the Canada West Pacific Division against Thompson Rivers with their first-ever postseason berth already in the bag for the first time.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10868 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10868)

SFU vs TWU preview
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10873 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10873)

Lakehead Thunderwolves defeat Western Ontario Mustangs
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10885 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10885)

Laurentian fails to get the double
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10883 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10883)

#3 Calgary Dinos earn Canada West Central Division pennant and a first-round bye in the conference playoff with a win over Manitoba Bison Friday night
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10888 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10888)

Simon Fraser Clan too much for TWU
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10905 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10905)

Andrew Spragud and Saskatchewan Huskies shoot down Victoria Vikings
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10894 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10894)

Ottawa Gee Gees get ready for some (Saturday Night) Toronto Varsity Blues (but not before besting Ryerson)
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10898 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10898)

#1 and still undefeated Carleton Ravens bosses OUA East rival #7 Toronto Blues at home
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=10879 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=10879)

[Durbansandshark]

I haven't made any Canadian college basketball updates in over a week. With the Canadian college basketball postseason already in full swing right now in both the men and women, I'll skip the links to reports until at least next week whenever possible.

[Durbansandshark]

Canada's own brand of March Madness is already in full effect right now as I indicated last time. So I'll get into it right away on the Road To Ottawa and Saskatoon 2008 Final 8. All commentary will arrive later.

Canada West:
UBC Thunderbirds 92 Alberta Golden Bears 90 FINAL
(University of British Columbia wins Canada West conference title)
Brandon Bobcats 97 Calgary Dino 83 BRONZE FINAL

UBC and Alberta will automatically head to Ottawa as CanadaWest representatives)

Alberta 85 Brandon 79 CW Semifinal
UBC 77 Calgary 69 CW Semifinal

University of Victoria Vikes defeated the Simon Fraser Clan in the Canada West Pacific Division Finals in a 77-69 victory in OT and 82-69.

British Columbia Thunderbirds triumphs over the University College Fraser Valley Cascades in a best-of-three series 72-66 and, after that, beats Victoria for Pacific Division supremacy.

Alberta Golden Bears knock off Saskatchewan Huskies at home in the CanadaWest Central Division series 82-74, a 66-64 loss to Saskatchewan, and 76-61.

From their upset loss in the first game to the Regina Cougars 87-85 in the Great Plains Division, Brandon beats them in the next two games.

Defending CIS champs Simon Fraser wins the CanadaWest women's third place game topping the CIS runners-up Alberta Pandas 72-55, thus eliminating the Pandas from postseason play. Meanwhile SFU's fierce city rivals UBC beats Regina 70-55 in the CanadaWest title game, but both are heading to Saskatoon this weekend with the Clan and Saskatchewan. UBC went on to win in the CanadaWest semis against Alberta as Regina shocks the hometown Clan in the other semis.

Saskatchewan Huskies have already played tough with the Pandas earlier in the CanadaWest playoffs before losing.

Victoria and UBC went at it in the playoffs like they always do whenever they get together. Going to the limit until the #2 Thunderbirds reigned in the end.

Winnipeg Wesmen knocked off the Manitoba Bison 67-65 in OT by overcoming a 15-point halftime deficit in the final game of the series for them. Winnipeg lost out to Prairie rivals Regina Cougars.

OUA:

Carleton Ravens 75 Ottawa Gee Gees 56-- OUA East Final
(Carleton's winning streak is now at 27 with 6 OUA East titles for coach Dave Smart)
Ravens now will face Western Ontario for the Wilson Cup OUA title with their win streak on the line.

Western Ontario Mustangs 79 Brock Badgers 62--OUA West Final

Western Ontario Mustangs 77 Windsor Lancers 71--OUA West semifinal
Ottawa Gee Gees 63 Toronto Varsity Blues 30--OUA East semifinal
Western Ontario Mustangs 82 McMasters 81--OUA West quarterfinal

The Gee Gees beat Ryerson in the OUA opening round as Queen's beats York.

Ottawa meets up against Brock for the OUA Bronze Medal Game on March 9.

Over in the women's game, Hamilton's #2 McMasters clinch the OUA conference women's basketball title over #8 Toronto 69-59 at the U of T Gym.

Toronto Varsity Blues 99 York Lions 91 OT ---OUA East Final
McMasters Marauders 64 Windsor Lancers 53---OUA West title

York Lions 64 Laurentian Voyaguers 61--OUA East semifinal
Toronto Varsity Blues 64 Carleton Ravens 61--OUA East semifinal

McMaster Marauders 71 Waterloo Warriors 40--OUA West semifinal
Windsor Lancers 59 Laurier Golden Hawks 31--OUA West semifinal

Both McMasters and Toronto move on the CIS women's championships. York is eliminated from the postseason.

Laureantian Voyaguers 84 Ryerson Rams 59--OUA East quarterfinal
Windsor Lancers 59 Laurier Golden Hawks 31--OUA West quarterfinal

Carleton Ravens and the Waterloo Warriors also advanced from the OUA West quarterfinals with wins over Queen's (67-58) and Brock (45-41), respectively. But both lost in their respective semis.

[Durbansandshark]

QSSF (Quebec):

Semifinals
Laval Rouge D'Or 89 McGill Redmen 54
Concordia Stingers 80 UQAM Citadins 77

Quebec Final (March 7):
Concordia vs. Laval

Atlantic University Sport:

Quarterfinals (at Halifax Metro Centre):
Friday March 7
Dalhousie Tigers vs. Cape Breton Capers
UPEI Panthers vs. St. Mary's Huskies

Semifinals:
Saturday March 8
Acadia Axemen vs. TBA
St. Francis Xavier X-Men vs. TBA

Atlantic University title Sunday, March 9

Women (at Acadia):
QUARTERFINALS
Acadia Axewomen 67 Dalhousie Tigers 69 OT
UPEI Cougars 67 New Brunswick Reds 48

SEMIFINALS
Dalhousie Tigers 60 Cape Breton Capers 75
Memorial Sea-Hawks 80 UPEI Cougars 58

Atlantic University Sport Title
Memorial Sea-Hawks 64 Cape Breton Capers 61

The women's CIS Finals 8 field for 2008 in Saskatoon:

1. Simon Fraser Clan (Canada West bronze medalist)
2. Saskatchewan Huskies (host)
3. Toronto Vasity Blues (OUA finalist)
4. University of British Columbia Thunderbirds (Canada West winner)
5. Laval Rouge D'Or (QSSF winner)
6. McMasters Mauraders (OUA winner)
7. Memorial Sea-Hawks (Atlantic winner)
8. Regina Cougars (Canada West finalist)

[Durbansandshark]

As hosts for the men's Final 8 in Ottawa, Carleton automatically gets one of those spots.

Laval Rouge D'Or won the women's Quebec Federation title, as previously alluded to in my last post. More Quebec women's stuff next time.

[Durbansandshark]

If you know anything about Carleton on this subject here. It's that the men's Ravens basketball team is seemingly an unstoppable machine in Canada. And so it goes for them with a win, their 28th, for the Ontario University Athletics' Wilson Cup against Western Ontario 81-65. Their rebounding, defense, and experience were too much for the Mustangs. But both teams will head towards Ottawa anyway for the Milk Energy Final 8.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11597 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11597)

Your 2008 CIS MEN'S FINAL 8 Presented by Milk (8 FINALISTES DU HOMMES Presentes Au Lait) teams in Ottawa (seedings set):

1. Carleton Ravens (OUA Champs-host)
2. British Columbia Thunderbirds (Canada West Champs)
3. St. Mary's Huskies (Atlantic Champs)
4. Laval Rouge et D'Or (Quebec Champs)
5. Acadia Axemen (Atlantic finalist-wildcard entry)
6. Western Ontario Mustangs (OUA Finalists)
7. Brock Badgers (OUA bronze medalists)
8. Alberta Golden Bears (Canada West finalist)

The Ravens have been as dominant as ever with a first-round win on Friday night against Alberta could get them a tie for 18-straight national wins with the great Victoria Vikings teams from 1980-86. A sixth WP McGee trophy will put one behind those same Vikings. All bets are on the Ravens for me.

(all times US and Canada Central) Friday, March 14:
10:30 am--quarterfinal #3 St. Mary's vs. #6 Western Ontario
2pm--quarterfinal #2 British Columbia vs. #7 Brock
6pm--quarterfinal #4 Laval vs. #5 Acadia
8pm--quarterfinal #1 Carleton vs. #8 Alberta

Saturday, March 15
10:30am--Consolation Game #1
1pm--Consolation Game #2
5pm--National Semifinal #1
78pm--National Semifinal #2

Sunday, March 16
11:30am--5th Place
2:30pm--National Championship Game

I'll actually postpone the Quebec women's results until later this week. The women's championship in Saskatoon has already took place, but, like I did last year, I'll hold off until after the men's Final 8.

[Durbansandshark]

Moving the Final 8 from Halifax after 24 years there to Ottawa is actually a positive thing for the Canadian college basketball arena and its growth. One only needs to look at Carleton's immense success (and that of their cross-city rivals in the Canadian capital Ottawa Gee Gees) to see why. Seems only right it would move under the circumstances and develop the basketball there; for one thing, there's no Ottawa-based pro basketball team (major or minor) there to hog the public attention away from. But that can be a double-edged sword should the hosts undefeated in-house Carleton falter early if the Ravens get upset early this year. The college game there needs to show how economically viable it is outside of college campuses and areas where basketball is already beloved like in Halifax. TV coverage is unprecedented, and there are very intriguing angles and storylines to draw casual fans into this like Carleton's quest for six CIS titles. Surely the game is more than fertile in Ottawa as the attendance at the ScotiaBank Place for the MBNA Capital Hoops Classic (with the centering on the Carleton-Ottawa OUA rivalry) can reveal as they act as a dry run for the big one about to take place tomorrow. For the Final 8, I'm sure attendance at the ScotiaBank Place is bound to grow even more so, perhaps shattering the alltime records, at least in the more significant matches should Carleton goes deep and draws fans nationwide. Canadian men's college postseason basketball is somewhat where the NCAA D1 was almost 30-40 years with the transition from college campuses to sports arenas. It'll be an interesting three years with the attempt to take quantam leaps in growth. Things would be made better if Ottawa qualified to the Final 8 too.

The Score Television Network will broadcast the more significant games of the 2008 Final 8 on TV in Canada (with a few on tape delay). Individual tickets are available for them, but, knowing that many of you will not make the trip (neither will I), it's all good.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11603 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11603)
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11631 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11631)
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11609 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11609)

University of New Brunswick Reds head coach Thom Gillespie has steeped down after a disappointing season.

[Durbansandshark]

Unbelievable!! Damn, no sixpeat for the Carleton Ravens in its own stomping grounds! Over! (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11680) :shock: :(

So that means we got a new CIS WP McGee Trophy Champion. More on that later on my next post.

UPDATE: SSN Canada has all of the Final 8 games on demand for you to enjoy after registering.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11653 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11653)
www.SSNCanada.ca (http://www.SSNCanada.ca)

More on Carleton kings' fall from grace:
www.charlatan.ca/index.php?option=com_c ... Itemid=227 (http://www.charlatan.ca/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=19993&Itemid=227)
www.charlatan.ca/index.php?option=com_c ... Itemid=227 (http://www.charlatan.ca/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=19992&Itemid=227)

Before the fall:
www.charlatan.ca/index.php?option=com_c ... Itemid=227 (http://www.charlatan.ca/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=19979&Itemid=227)
www.charlatan.ca/index.php?option=com_c ... Itemid=227 (http://www.charlatan.ca/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=19983&Itemid=227)
www.charlatan.ca/index.php?option=com_c ... Itemid=227 (http://www.charlatan.ca/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=19986&Itemid=227)
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11669 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11669)

[Durbansandshark]

I know it's been a few weeks and I've been behind in my reports from the college scene north of the border. Hopefully there will be a recap of the events from over a month ago next week when I get some time.

[Durbansandshark]

It was announced on Monday that the NCAA men's champs Kansas Jayhawks will visit the five-time CIS champs Carleton Ravens for a preseason match at Ottawa's ScotiaBank Place on Saturday, August 30.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11830 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail/cfm?id=11830)

Kansas will also play against the Ottawa Gee Gees the next day at the Gee Gees' home gym.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11838 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail/cfm?id=11838)

New Brunswick hires St. Francis Xavier X-Women head coach Brent Baker to coach the Reds men's basketball team starting next season.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11824 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail/cfm?id=11824)

Former Brandon Bobcat and Canada international Keith Vassell returns to his alma mater to coach. Coaching has taken him to Europe including Iceland's national team
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11740 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11740)

McGill Redmen will open their 107th season of men's basketball with a date with, you guessed it, Kansas.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11797 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11797)

Guelph Gryphons coach Chris O'Rourke will pilot the Canadian men's Universiade squad in Blegrade, Serbia next year.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11813 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11813)
www.cisport.ca/e/international/universi ... grade_2009 (http://www.cisport.ca/e/international/universiade/belgrade_2009)

Former Brock Badger Jodie Eberling earns a WNBA free agent tryout.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=11756 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11756)

Alex Perno is now the Bishops' Gaithers new women's coach after Rod Gilpen left to take over the men
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=11846 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11846)

Acadia Axewomen's coach Angie MacLeod unexpectedly resigns
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=11807 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11807)

I'll recap the Final 8 in both men and women that has been completed in over a month next week.

[Durbansandshark]

More US men's college basketball programs announced that they will make their way north of the border for the Labour Day weekend: York University Lions will face on their home court in Toronto UNC-Charlotte, North Carolina St., and Penn St.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11860 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11860)

Waterloo's athletic department announces the hiring of new women's basketball coach Tyler Slipp, an assistant at Simon Fraser.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=11898 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11898)

[Durbansandshark]

The University of Toronto Varsity Blues and the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds men's basketball teams will represent the CIS in the 2008 Kainan University International Basketball Invitational in Taoyuan County, Taiwan on June 2-5. A couple of NCAA teams won this (Boston University and MIT) but never a CIS team. Could they be the ones?
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... cfm?=11909 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?=11909)
http://varsityblues.ca/sports/mbasketball

Ottawa Gee Gees' MVP Sean Peter has an eye towards playing European pro ball.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... cfm?=11913 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?=11913)

Speaking of European pro basketball and Canadians, Osvaldo Jeanty, the former All-Canadian from Carleton and 2006-2007 Male Player of the Year, wins the German Bundesliga A title with TSV Nordligen Giants in his first professional season to a 25-5 record and promotion to the first division that is the BBL.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=11918 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11918)

Windsor Lancers' caoches Chantal Vallee and Chris Oliver are on the verge of signing extensions to their respective contracts. Oliver now has added UNC-Ashville transfer Matt Day in time for the 2008-09 season while Vallee gets local high school star from Riverside High Bojana Kovaceveic.
http://golancers.ca

[Durbansandshark]

College basketball is very much an afterthought with the Canadian Forces (Forces Canadienne in French), in some ways even more so than it is south of the border. Indeed, the Royal Military College Paladins men's basketball team finished winless this season and decided to switch coaches. So last Wednesday, the Paladins AD Darrin Cates hired Halifax native Scott James, an assistant from Dalhousie since 2003, to turn things around.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=11938 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11938)

Henry Bekkering is built like a strong ox. The Calgary Dinos All-Canadian star also posseses an extraordinary leaping ability and athleticism. Now the former Eastern Washington Eagle just signed a contract with the Canadian Football League's Calgary Stampeders that, at the moment, will put him at least cracking into the practice squad that may put it into good use. Stampeders' rookie camp already started, and I'll keep you posted on how he did. One other thing: if he does make the roster, his CIS basketball eligibility won't be affected, but his football one will if he doesn't gets cut by the time CIS football training camp starts on August 15.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=11945 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11945)

London, Ontario's Fanshawe College will host the 4th Annual Charity College All Star Game
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=12302 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12302)

The St. Francis Xavier X-Women had a disappointing season. But hope is seemingly on its way from someone who knows the Maritime Atlantic terrain coming in as the women's head coach from the Calgary Dinos as a men's assistant, a former Academic All-Canadian to boot.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=11930 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11930)

Angie MacLeod leaves Acadia (as previously reported here). In comes Bev Greenlaw.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=11960 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=11960)

[Durbansandshark]

Saskatchewan women's Huskies will get nice representation at the national level from its head coach Lisa Thomaidis to former Huskies star Sarah Crooks, who played pro ball last season with Spain's El Ferrol. 24 players will participate in invitational tryouts that will sort out the women's national team and the developmental team with an open tryout going on for up to six players competing for a spot on the developmental or senior team. The senior team will make their way through the summer in Europe for friendlies against top level competition. Canada's developmental team will compete in an international tournament in Shanghai, China facing, among others, the Chinese Senior National Women's Team.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12071 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12071)

Graduating Laurentian basketball star and four time OUA East Player of the Year Cassandra Carpenter could be up for an award at her school
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12132 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12132)

Dani Langford returns as Simon Fraser women's assistant coach
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12155 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12155)

[Durbansandshark]

Happy Canada Day 2008! :D

In this Canada Day installment of Canadian college basketball's goings-on, a few All-Canadians made onto the training camp for the men's national team with Leo Rautins running the show in Toronto. Concordia's Damian Buckley, Carleton's Aaron Doorenkamp, and Devoe Joseph all didn't make the cut. Nobody presently in a Canadian college made the final 12 other than as assistants like Carleton coach Dave Smart.

Acadia Axemen, the giant killers in the thrilling 3OT game in Ottawa against Carleton last season, now have a new coach in Stephen Baur as interim coach to replace the resigned Les Berry.

[Durbansandshark]

Brandon Bobcats men's coach Keith Vassell appoints Chris Krauss as his new assistant coach for the upcoming season.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12216 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12216)

Labo(u)r Day CIS/NCAA basketball just gets more expansive with University College Fraser Valley inviting inuagural CBI champs Tulsa and Colorado St. to their Kamloops gymnasium.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12225 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12225)

With longtime women's head coach of CIS powerhouse McMaster, Theresa Burns, on personal leave, assistant Anne Marie Thuss steps in for the interim.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12226 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12226)

Has any of you seen the documentary Road To Glory? That film is often thought of as the girl's basketball answer to the brilliant 1994 doc Hoops Dreams (best film of the 1990s IMHO). Rapper Ludacris narrarates that film. And the story centers on Seattle's Roosevelt High's Darnellia Russell (and her teammates) fighting for her rights and butting against her coach at times as a single mother, dropping out of high school, and later suing the WIAA to earn a fifth year of eligibility. After all the press she had garnered from the film thanks to its glowing reviews, 24-year old Russell is about to become one of the more famous women's basketball players in Canada when she takes her act to Thunder Bay, Ontario as a Lakehead University recruit. She hopes to make it to the WNBA one day, but she needs a degree, a league stipulation to play, to make that work. Enter Lakehead. It also displays key differences about eligibility between the CIS and the NCAA. This is one (out of many)situation where the NCAA should change the rules.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12228 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12228)

Andy Sparks becomes the new Ottawa Gee Gees women's coach
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12246 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12246)

[N B Net]

Hey Durban, got any news on the Canadian men's team? Seems the boys aren't too pleased with Leo.

[Durbansandshark]

Go over to my recent posts pertaining to them at the Some Random Thoughts About International Baksetball thread. In fact, I'll post more of my thoughts about them and more in a matter of days. You're right: things went horribly wrong for the Canadians.

[Durbansandshark]

Add the Northeastern Huskies, Buffalo Bulls, South Alabama Jaguars, East Tennessee St. Buccaneers, North Carolina St. Wolfpack, Virginia Cavaliers, Mercer Bears, and the UNC-Charlotte 49ERS to a growing list of NCAA teams playing north of the border in late August-Labour Day exhibition games with the likes of UCFV, Toronto, Carleton, Concordia, Victoria, and Ottawa.

Paul Falco is the new Wilfried Laurier Golden Hawks women's basketball head coach.

[Durbansandshark]

Windsor Lancers' Ryan Steer, last season CIS leader in assists, has just signed a pro contract to play at Germany's DJK Wurzburg in the Bundesliga Basketball B. If that club sounds familiar to you, that's because it happens to be the hometown basketball club of Dirk (and his sis Silke) Nowitzki. Wurzburg came with a stronger offer to play for them than a Bristol, England pro team.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12303 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12303)

Due to circumstances beyond the control of the University of Victoria Vikings, their Saturday Labour Day weekend home matchup against the Michigan St. Spartans has been cancelled and will not be rescheduled. In its place, the Vikes added a second date with the University of The Pacific Tigers.

As we continue on with the anticipated NCAA/CIS matchups, things start with the official NCAA/OUA Tip Off Classic between the aforementioned Windsor Lancers, now reloaded, against the Southern Illinois Salukis on Saturday and then the Morgan St. Bears the following Sunday, both at the St. Denis Gymnasium
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12338 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12338)

Over on the women's side, Simon Fraser University will have their Labour Day weekend NCAA engagement with four games (both men-women doubleheaders on Saturday and Sunday) with Baylor, LSU (women), Colorado St., and Cal St.-Fullerton (men).
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12386 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12386)

An unusual move here--Kelsey Anonson will ditch the grass for the hardwood to play for the Victoria women's team
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12306 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12306)

[Durbansandshark]

Coming next week, a look back at the Labour Day weekend CIS-NCAA matches, including a stunning upset from a Quebec school.

...and finally, the final results of the men's and women's Final 8s in Ottawa and Regina.

[Durbansandshark]

The CIS-NCAA Labour Day clash news will actually come in two parts, if not one, tomorrow, when I have more time to do so.

We do have a former All-Canadian trying his luck with the CBA's Eastern Kentucky Miners at the free agent tryouts as the only non-American among the 26 from the University of Prince Edward Island.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12491 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12491)

[Durbansandshark]

Before I begin the CIS-NCAA Labour Day exhibition clash news, many of which were very competitive matches, I need to bring up a follow up on one story that was developing in this semester...

Unfortunately, the following is bad news for the Lakehead Thunderwolves people: Darnellia Russell, the former Seattle Roosevelt High girls' basketball player that was the protagonist in the documentary Road To Glory, decided to return to Seattle and consequently won't play for Lakehead this season because she found the decision of being separate from her two young daughters north of the border in Thunder Bay, Ontario "much more difficult she than had anticipated". Thankfully Lakehead was sympathetic.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12495 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12495)

NCAA defending champs Kansas edges off 5-time CIS champs Carleton Ravens 74-73 in front of a very good crowd for a game involving a Canadian college basketball team in Canada--7189 at Ottawa's ScotiaBank Place.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12397 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12397)

Here comes the Quebec school upset I was referring to: Montreal's English-speaking university, McGill, beats Virginia 88-83 as an undersized team (no starting player above 6-4) with Moustapha El Zanaty, a former reserve who still lead to the team in scoring last season, playing as Mr. Grinch with his 30 points to the Cavs in Montreal for the Redmen's "shock and awe" campaign, its first victory over a NCAA team since beating Maine in 1983 and avenging the humiliation from the Cavs four years ago.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12400 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12400)

Though Trinity Western gives Tulsa a competitive scare down the stretch, the reigning CBI champs called the Golden Hurricanes ultimately comes out victorious over the Spartans.
www.universitysports.ca/e/m_basketball/ ... m?id=12402 (http://www.universitysports.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12402)

Pacific Tigers need a buzzer beater to win over Victoria Vikings to close the two-game weekend series. Rebounds in the Vikes' disfavor played a role. Next up for the UVic Vikes after a long layover is the House-Loughton Invitation hosted by Carleton in mid-October with Laval, Bishop's, and the hosts.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12433 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12433)

But Trinity Western gets their first ever win against a NCAA Division I school over Colorado St. 95-83
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12432 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12432)

Moustafa the Moose strikes again with 31 points after the Virginia post-game glow but the opponent was very different: Boston's Northeastern University stops his Redmen.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/S ... m?id=12431 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/Story_detail.cfm?id=12431)

Defending CanadaWest Central Division champs Calgary Dinos performed solid exhibition basketball up to the last challenger the undefeated (in Canada preseason) Montana Grizzlies in spite of the latter's late surge to victory.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12434 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12434)

[Durbansandshark]

Penn St. destroys the Ryerson Rams in the Rams' Toronto stomping ground
http://canadianpress.google.com/article ... xZqjhQcVUg (http://canadianpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5hDfTb7lCgpy2wFNybPxZqjhQcVUg)

Baylor Lady Bears took advantage of the FIBA wider lanes rules that the UBC Thunderbirds utilize on a regular basis and then some in a very easy win:
www.wacotrib.com/sports/content/sports/ ... html?imw=Y (http://www.wacotrib.com/sports/content/sports/college/2008/09/01/09012008waclbball.html?imw=Y)

[Durbansandshark]

Carleton, after hanging tough with the NCAA champs Kansas before losing by one point, turned things around in their favo(u)r in their subsequent CIS-NCAA Labour Day Weekend clashes with wins against the Mid-American Conference's Buffalo Bulls (84-74), South Alabama Jaguars (78-59), and the Northeastern Huskies (77-47) to 3-1 in the series. 2000 first-year students were on hand at the Ravens' Nest in the game versus South Alabama as part of the annual Ravenspalooza event. If you do the math, the Ravens won over their NCAA opponents by a total of 59 points.

The Toronto Raptors are currently using the Ravens' Nest for this upcoming season's NBA training camp, something Carleton University is really thrilled about as it hopes to give greater exposure to the CIS game.

Across the Ontario province in Toronto, the York Lions concluded their share of the preseason NCAA clashes by losing all of their three games to North Carolina St. (81-60, despite trailing by two at halftime at 35-33), UNC-Charlotte (123-59), and Penn St. (83-45). All at the Tait McKenzie Centre, York's home court.

York Lions will later compete this month at the Naismith Tournament, hosted by Waterloo.

The York Lions women will participate in a charity exhibition match against the Guelph Gryphons next Thursday in Barrie, Ontario to support cancer research with all of the proceeds going toward the Royal Victoria Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Centre, hosted by the Barrie Royals.

[Durbansandshark]

In this brief Canadian Thanksgiving/Canadian Election Day special of Canadian College Hoops (Happy Thanksgiving to all you Canadians up there! Canadians vote tomorrow, hopefully Stephen Harper and the Conservatives won't win the election, not even a minority of seats. I rather see Jack Layton and the NDP or Elizabeth May and the Green Party Canada win a majority of seats at Parliament Hill and be PM. More of the former, though. Enough politics here...), I'll present a link to a preseason game the Guelph Gryphons women's basketball team played against the Sheridan Bruins in a tight game and won in OT 73-72 at home.
www.universitysport.ca/w_basketball/sto ... m?id=12726 (http://www.universitysport.ca/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12726)

[Durbansandshark]

Canadian CIS college basketball 2008-09 has just got underway. Have a look with these:

Canada West Women's Preview Part 1:
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12820 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12820)

Canada West Women's Preview Part 2:
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12821 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12821)

Saskatchewan Huskies never look back against the 2007-08 women's CIS champs UBC Thunderbirds in the first weekend of action:
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12853 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12853)

Alberta Pandas win two in a row to start their season against UBC and Victoria, forcing 30 turnovers in the latter's disfavor:
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12889 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12889)

2008-09 Ontario University Athletics Women's Preview:
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12915 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12915)

In one of the last CIS preseason women's games, Trinity Western Spartans knock off Carleton Ravens at the Alberta Pandas HoopsFest Tournament.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=12746 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12746)

[Durbansandshark]

Part Two:

Both the Winnipeg Wesmen and Weswomen teams struggle at the opening weekend of their respective games. Taken from the Winnipeg Free Press.
www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/ ... 4882c.html (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/story/4241854p.-4884882c.html)

Ottawa Gee Gees sought their third Jack Donahue Memorial Tip Off in Ottawa when they faced the McGill Redmen on Sunday. The Gee-Gees squeaked by the Guelph Gryphons to get to the final 69-67 led by Dax Dessereault's 16 points and 10 rebounds on his 22nd birthday. McGill's sensational point guard Moustafa El Zanaty led everybody in scoring with 32 points in the earlier game with their win over UPEI Panthers 82-67. Ottawa native Manock Lual led the Panthers with the 17 points and 5 rebounds. Both Ottawa and McGill were 2-0 coming into it.

Our first CIS Top Ten rankings for basketball. Carleton and Simon Fraser failed to to repeat their championships from a year ago, but both are currently sitting pretty atop the Canadian college basketball scene to start the new season. Interesting that UQAM cracked the Top Ten in the women's game at the start. The Citadins must've recruited well in the Montreal area to get to where they are now in earning votes. They play Carleton next.
www.universitysport.ca/e/story_detail.cfm?id=12907 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/story_detail.cfm?id=12907)
www.sports.uqam.ca/citadins/basketballfeminin (http://www.sports.uqam.ca/citadins/basketballfeminin)
www.sports.uqam.ca/citadins/basketballf ... hletes.php (http://www.sports.uqam.ca/citadins/basketballfeminin/athletes.php)

Men's Canada West Preview Part 1:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12816 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12816)
Men's Canada West Preview Part 2:
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12819 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12819)
(Could British Columbia be the first team from Canada West to win the CIS Final 8 title since 2002 with almost everbody returning?)

Victoria Vikes battle back and beat the Saskatchewan Huskies 76-72
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12876 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12876)

Alberta Golden Bears continue to open flat. This time against the powerful UBC Thunderbirds at home Saturday night, who dominated all over them.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12877 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12877)

Here's another college team that's now 0-2. Thompson Rivers loses to UCFV.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12880 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12880)

[Durbansandshark]

It's strange that a team, men's or women's, would sit atop the college rankings without actually playing a game this week. Well, that's exactly what happened with the Alberta Pandas, now with height, doing so for the first time in a decade. Voters, who Alberta should be thankful to right now, opted to not give much #1 votes to Simon Fraser after the Clan were upset by Victoria 57-56 Friday night in the first leg of the 2-game weekend series before quickly rebounding in winning the second one Saturday night 87-60. Carleton still tops the men's rankings.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=12998 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=12998)

Simon Fraser will have their hands full with looming major battles out in the Canada West with a very early playoff-like atmosphere this weekend against #1 Alberta and #4 Saskatchewan, both currently undefeated at 2-0, both with long standing histories with SFU, at the Clan's Burnaby Mountain campus home gym.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13009 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13009)

[Durbansandshark]

#1-ranked Carleton Ravens, the OUA East champs, suffered a shock defeat, their first in two years, early in the regular season Friday night with a 80-68 defeat very close to the Detroit and the US border. You see the Ravens were on the road in Windsor playing against the #4-ranked Lancers in both their regular season opener when that happened. It's quite likely Carleton will be knocked off the #1 perch when the new CIS rankings come out tomorrow. Game knotted up 35 all at the half. Then the Lancers outscored the Ravens 45-33 in the second half and outrebounded them 41 to 30 in the entire game. Greg Surmacz led Windsor with 28 points and 15 rebounds. Aaron Doornenkamp scored 24 points with Rob Saunders added 18 in a losing effort.

But the Ravens turned things around when they beat Western Ontario Mustangs the next day 79-74 as Doornenkamp scored 24 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists. Stu Turnbull had 19 points for the Ravens' favor. Western Ontario had Brad Smith come off the bench to score 19 of his own. Carleton also outrebounded the Mustangs 45 to 29. Despite the Mustangs chipping away at the Carleton lead to at one point in the end of the third quarter after the 25-11 first quarter demolition, they never got the lead afterwards as the Ravens pulled away, which is why they showed they are a CIS powerhouse.

Ravens' home opener in the Birds' Nest is Friday versus the Lakehead Thunderwolves

Meanwhile St. Francis Xavier X-Men from Antigonish, Nova Scotia scored a victory against incoming NCAA D1 Independent Bryant Bulldogs in an exhibition game Saturday at Bryant's home court 71-64.

[Durbansandshark]

Simon Fraser Clan women's team beat the Alberta Pandas Friday night in a hard-fought battle between two of the top-ranked teams in the nations, which happen to be in the CanadaWest Conference at the SFU West Gym 72-62. That loss for Alberta was their first loss for the young season, likely costing them their #1 ranking in the Canadian women's college basketball game. Freshman guard Nicole Clarke led the Pandas with 15 points as teammates point guard Ashley Wigg added 11 and forward Melanie Schlichter scored 15. SFU had major contributions from fifth-year senior Courtney Gerwig and junior post player Laurell Weigl leading the Clan each with 18 points. Robyn Buna and Matteke Hutler netted 13 and 11 points, respectively, for the winners.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13053 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13053)

A surprise team emerge in the rankings of Canadian college basketball. That team's name is the University at Fraser Valley Cascades in Kamloops, British Columbia. However, it isn't terribly surprising with Baranby Craddock now in his second year having control of the team. They're now 5-1 and this past weekend sweeping Manitoba by defeating the Manitoba Bison and the Winnipeg Wesmen.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13092 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13092)
http://www.ufv.ca/athletics/sports_team ... toryid=609 (http://www.ufv.ca/athletics/sports_team_story.aspx?id=1&storyid=609)

But the Casacades women couldn't do likewise in the province of Manitoba on their own road trip, but they're back now at home playing tonight against Trinity Western.
http://www.ufv.ca/athletics/sports_team ... toryid=610 (http://www.ufv.ca/athletics/sports_team_story.aspx?id=2&storyid=610)

Four schools in the Ontario University Athletics Conference remain unbeaten in this young season. But powerhouse Carleton, surprisingly enough at this time, isn't one of them. They are Toronto, Brock, Laurier, and Guelph. Following link has the OUA action game summaries from this past weekend.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13107 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13107)

Regina Cougars utilized a strong second half against the visiting Calgary Dinos to overcome a deficit and win.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13090 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13090)

Here's the women's OUA women's basketball roundup from the weekend headlined by the Waterloo Warriors winning two thrilling back-to-back games with RMC and Queen's in OT on the road. Surprising the Paladins from RMC would be competitive all through the second game. You gotta hand it to the Warriors for that
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13106 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13106)

Because Carleton lost to the Lancers, the Ravens are knocked off the #1 spot after two weeks and, counting the entire 14 CIS polls from last season if not even previously, fell to second behind the UBC Thunderbirds, who won a weekend sweep against the CanadaWest Pacific Division rivals #7 Victoria Vikings in a battle of the undefeated last weekend (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13056) and are the only undefeated CanadaWest team. British Columbia earned all 40 first place votes to take the top spot in the national coaches' poll and hit the road this weekend against Brandon and Regina. Could Carleton get motivated to regain the top spot? Their cross-city rival Simon Fraser has the women's team back atop the rankings with the aforementioned wins against Alberta and Saskatchewan.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13100 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13100)

Atlantic University Sport hopes to bring the men's basketball tournament back to Halifax for 2011 and 2012 with bidding opens for that.

[Durbansandshark]

When you have Moustafa El Zanaty performing like he has so far this season, McGill Redmen could be a surprise team out of the Quebec University Basketball League. This past weekend he scored a double double, which has become typical, with 24 points and 10 boards. Teammate Sean Anthony led everyone with 27 when the Montreal school outgun Bishop's Gaither in the conference opener 101-93 in front of a packed crowd of 712 at Love Competition Hall Friday night. Nine players achieved double figures in scoring between the two teams including 5'4" McGill junior Michael White, a Montreal native.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13135 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13135)

A dunking and scoring clinic was in effect in favor of the Ottawa Gee Gees over McMasters but nearly ruined it by letting the Marauders come back in the second half.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13140 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13140)

Poor Lakehead Thunderwolves. Yes, it's early in the season, and the Thunderwolves can still turn things around. But when a motivated powerhouse Carleton team, out to regain the #1 rank in the CIS poll, destroys them at the Ravens' Nest, their season isn't going to look promising. Now they're 0-3 in OUA play.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13141 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13141)

Over in the Prairies, UBC Thunderbirds soar past the Brandon Bobcats at the BU Gym to stay undefeated at 7-0. Brandon has three straight for the first time since 2005-2006 and now 2-3.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13128 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13128)

Remember what I said at the top of this post about McGill beating Bishop's? The latter got revenge at home. Both Bishop's men's and women's teams swept McGill at home to get their first respective victories in the QUBL this season."Mouse" wasn't his usual self. In the women's game almost everyone on the team were on the scoresheet with Katy Germina's 18 leading the Gaithers. Both Bishop's teams play against UQAM in a home and home series tomorrow.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13162 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13162)

British Columbia crashed down to Earth still in the Prairies (this time in Saskatchewan) with a crushing loss to the Regina Cougars in an instant classic, costing them the #1 ranking.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13146 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13146)

OUA weekend basketball roundup headlined by Kale Harrison's career high 31 points making a serious impact for the Wilfried Laurier Golden Hawks' thumping over the still-winless Laurentian Voyaguers 103-78 following a two-point loss to York. Also Carleton goes three in a row in the OUA winning over McMasters...and Lakehead stays winless thanks to the Gee Gees.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13158 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13158)

Thanks to going three in a row in Ontario conference play combined with the Thunderbirds tough road loss to the Saskatchewan Huskies, the Ravens happily soar back to the CIS men's college basketball summit. With a three way tie for the OUA East lead. Simon Fraser stays atop in the women's game. Only St. Francis Xavier X-Men and the Brock Badgers are undefeated in the Top Ten in the men. Memorial is the only remaining undefeated women's team.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13171 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13171)

We don't hear much about Canadian college basketball coaching legends for obvious reasons, regardless where you're at be it in the US, Australia, New Zealand, or even within Canada, but here's one we all should salute to. Alberta Golden Bears coach Don Horwood will retire after 26 years coaching Alberta and 40 years in total at the end of this season. One of the finest things the city of Edmonton has ever had in sports. What a very nice resume (or CV) he has behind him!
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13175 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13175)

Victoria Vikes prepare for a potential invasion at McKinney Gym from Jason Doersken and the all-star cast from Trinity Western Spartans from nearby Langley on Friday.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13185 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13185)

Another chapter is about to be written in the fierce and bitter CanadaWest Prairie rivalry between Calgary and Saskatchewan with both men's and women's squads not far from each other in the CanadaWest Central Division standings so far. Look for a cancer fundraising head shaving involving the football team! Calgary Dino men just had a sweep of the Lethbridge Pronghorns this past weekend.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13186 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13186)

For the McGill Marlets pink opened their season with their QUBL season opener against Bishop's as it was another breast cancer awareness came underway...Mission, BC's Elise Lepine, an 18 year old freshman, led with 20 for the Marlets with a rallying win over Bishop's
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=13124 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13124)
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=13134 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13134)

Congratulations to Western Ontario Mustangs fourth year forward Bess Lennox on becoming the alltime Western leader in rebounds with 588, surpassing Julie Lamparski's 587 in their win against Toronto! :D
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=13131 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13131)
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=13159 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13159)

Unlike their male counterparts, the Lakehead and Carleton women are more competitive with each other and in the OUA conference with Lakehead having the upper hand over the Ravens.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=13137 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13137)

Saskatchewan Huskies sweep the Alberta Pandas over the weekend in Edmonton. Alberta goes to Lethbridge and Saskatchewan heads to Calgary.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=13157 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13157)

#1-ranked Simon Fraser had their mid-game struggles against a rising team called UFV, who did not fade under the pressure after trailing in the first quarter and went on a run at the start of the third to lead, but the Clan got their act together well enough for the victory.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=13161 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13161)

First year CIS coach Ottawa Gee Gees Andy Sparks brings a different angle in the operating of the Ottawa women's team with an intense screen defense and tough paint play. He even yelled himself hoarse on the sidelines, but it helps with the Gee Gees improving with a four game win streak on the line.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=13180 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13180)

[Durbansandshark]

CIS is now about to undergo its Christmas holiday break in both the men and women's basketball games there. So, it won't be until next week when I'll catch up with the details about the college basketball scene up there, including the Atlantic University Sports conference, a conference I long neglected here, and some significant development for the better involving the Carleton Ravens women's team.

I'll leave with this: Halifax will welcome back the CIS Final 8 men's basketball after a three year hiatus in Ottawa after the AUS successfully won back the bid for 2011-2012 this morning.

[Durbansandshark]

In an upset that has sent massive shockwaves in this already-unusual season north of the border. The Laurentian Voyaguers stun #3-ranked Windsor Lancers for that seemingly "elusive" first win of the season dramatically at home in Sudbury, Ontario 81-80 during the Sun Life Pep Rally festivities in OUA play. The Voyaguers still aren't expected to do well though. But you never can always tell...
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13209 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13209)

All-Canadian football star Erik Galas made his basketball debut for the McGill Redmen in Quebec City as a guard in a home and home series against Laval. Now Moustafa El Zanaty gets a bodyguard!
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13236 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13236)

Carleton sure hasn't let up in their winning ways. Like they usually do. Now the city-wide rivalry with Ottawa is right where it wants to be as the Ravens are tied for first in the OUA East division with the Gee Gees at 7-1 after a close win over Waterloo before the winter break. They also beat 3-3 Wilfried Laurier earlier that week.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13263 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13263)

Waterloo Golden Hawks' woes continues against Carleton's rival #6 Ottawa in a nail bitter as the Gee Gees and Ravens are now tied
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13258 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13258)

Pretty much the top leaders in Canadian basketball have stayed put in both the men and women with Carleton and Simon Fraser atop in their respective rankings.

Simon Fraser Clan had only Thompson River to look forward to this past weekend for their series with them and blasted them away. And the Clan won both games. They and the men's UBC team are only ones in Canadian college basketball that reached 10 wins so far, but that's a reflection of the CanadaWest, and featuring the latest chapter in the fierce SFU-UBC rivalry to claim the Barbera Rae Cup with a second straight fourth quarter comeback.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13216 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13216)
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13255 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13255)

Alissa Wolff's outstanding play lifts Windsor Lancers to victory over the York Lions and the Laurentian Voyaguers in this latest installment of the OUA women's wrapup. Also mentioned, don't sleep on the Carleton women now. They're a rising power!
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13217 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13217)

Brandon's Lady Bobcats almost, almost pulled a Laurentian in a close and tight game like the Voyaguers had. But they came short in their bid against the Regina Cougars. At least they already won a game unlike the Voyaguers.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13242 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13242)

Perhaps the Laurentian women were inspired by the men's efforts as they looked to snap a three game losing streak, but Hamilton's McMaster Maurauders, living up to their name, stole OT and the win over the Voyaguers at their home, Burridge Gym.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13246 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13246)

Windsro had five players in double digits in scoring led by Czech player Iva Peklova as it beats lowly nonfactor RMC, which headlines the OUA report. Also, Lakehead is hot right now as it is on pace for the OUA West crown with a close win over York.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13264 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13264)

Carleton women sitting pretty atop the OUA East following a win over Waterloo. Enjoy it as you enter the break, ladies!
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13262 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13262)

We got some hot streaks going on in the women. Saskatchewan Huskies are on six-game win streak with Winnipeg as the latest victim. Cape Breton Breakers have theirs: a six-game winning streak themselves breaking away from the rest of the Atlantic University pack having stopped defending Atlantic champs Memorial SeaHawks. There's some Atlantic University basketball for you to start with for now!
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13245 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13245)
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13292 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13292)

[Durbansandshark]

Atlantic University basketball gets neglected by yours truly on these posts. Hopefully this will be a start of a change under this thread.

To start things off, I would like to begin with the premiere Atlantic University men's basketball team, Nova Scotia's St. Francis Xavier X-Men. In mid-May Canadian coaching legend Ken Konchalski added two of the top players in the province of Nova Scotia to his team as freshmen: rugged forward Jeremy Dunn from two-time provincial champs Horton Griffins and sweet shooting guard Eamon Morrissey from runnerups Citadel Phoenix. Dunn was a key reason why Horton won 64 games in a row the last two seasons with his inside play and shooting threes. Coming into the 2008-09 season, the X-Men were 15-5, second place in the Atlantic regular season and have almost everyone back. Christian "T-Bear" Upshaw was recently named AUS Male Player of the Week for the week ending November 15 with his performance of 14 points against their AUS rivals then-#10 ranked Dalhousie Tigers in a 77-61. Now the X-Men are currently undefeated with a 6-0 record with additional wins over the winless University of New Brunswick Reds, UPEI Panthers, and St. Mary's Huskies (twice). Tyler Richards is also consistent in scoring for the X-Men. Currently, the X-Men are ranked #3 with their next game at the Rod Shevallor Tournament at Dalhousie January 2-4. For more info:
www.goxgo.ca/index.php?id=222&tid=49 (http://www.goxgo.ca/index.php?id=222&tid=49)

The X-Women are similarly successful with a 5-1 showing at the Canadian holiday break (4-1 in AUS play); only Dalhousie Tigers handed them their only loss on a Sunday afternoon 71-62. I'm starting to think new coach Matt Skinn should get heavy consideration to be the AUS women's basketball coach of the year if things keep up for them. Their most recent game was a 88-65 win, the X-Women's third in a row, at Charlottestown, Prince Edward Island against the 2-4 UPEI Panthers. Five X-Women scored in double digits--Tory Anderson, Jacquelyn Richardson, Ashley Stephenson, reserve Elyse Hnatuik, and Sheryl Chisholm. Panther Myra Donkin led everyone with 22 points. In their previous meeting this season a few weeks ago, the then-visiting Panthers almost beat them 71-70. The X-Women currently sit at third place with 14 points four behind undefeated Cape Breton and two behind Memorial Seahawks. Dalhousie is fourth. Acadia Axewomen and UPEI are both yet to find a win this season. The Mount St. Vincent Memorial Invitational in Halifax is next for the X-Women on the same dates as the Rod Shevallor Tournament.
www.goxgo.ca/index.php?id=249&tid=55 (http://www.goxgo.ca/index.php?id=249&tid=55)
www.goxgo.ca/index.php?id=251&tid=55&ty ... %20ARCHIVE (http://www.goxgo.ca/index.php?id=251&tid=55&type=NEWS%20ARCHIVE)

[Durbansandshark]

I just mentioned about the St. Francis Xavier X-Men on my last post when I took a look at my still-incomplete Atlantic University basketball. Well, the school just lost to--who else?--Carleton at the Rod Shoveller Invitational Tournament Final in Halifax, hosted by Dalhousie.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13341 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13341)

[Durbansandshark]

There's been no change in the Canadian Top Ten rankings in the first week of 2009 yesterday. Carleton and Simon Fraser are still top cats in both men and women respectively. Look for more next week as we get back into the swing of things.

[CollegeRecruits]

I have been a long time reader of this board but only just stumbled across the section of the forum. Great job on the updates Durban. My name is Andrew Summerville I am an Australian that is an assistant coach at the University of Toronto. This is my 3rd season with the team. I have coached in the ABA and the NBL back home. If you every want to know anything about the CIS that you cant find on the web please do not hesitate to ask me. My contact details are of the University of Toronto Varsity Blues website.

We leave for Ottawa tomorrow to play Carleton and Ottawa so it will be a tough weekend.

Andrew

[Durbansandshark]

Thanks for your enjoyment of this thread, Andrew! Funnily enough, I hopefully plan to live in Toronto--one of the great multicultural cities in the world where you can do a lot in!--in the next two years and possibly attend school up there. Hopefully later in this new year! Good luck against the powerhouse Ravens and the Gee Gees up in the Canadian capital. Both surely will play you tough.

[Durbansandshark]

This past week another shocker emerged in Canadian college basketball on Thursday. The culprit this time is the Trinity Western Spartans from Langley, BC beating their metro Vancouver rivals #2 ranked British Columbia Thunderbirds at home. TWU never gets mentioned in the same breath as their bigger rivals in Vancouver college basketball, let alone in the CanadaWest, as UBC and SFU are. An important win nonetheless. Louis Hurd from Spokane scored 14 fourth quarter points and Jacob Doerksen had 30 and 14 rebounds taking care of business for the Spartans in the second half.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13360 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13360)

More woes continue for the other Vancouver big college rival Simon Fraser when Victoria ,the best defensive team in CanadaWest, rains threes on them
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13371 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13371)

Ontario University Athletics men's basketball roundup: Ottawa is, for the time being, the Canadian capital of men's college basketball up there as to also being the Canadian capital. Ravens and Gee Gees are 9-1 now; we are only two weeks away from those two duking it out again at the ScotiaBank Place and national supremacy at the much-anticipated Capital Hoops Classic. As Andrew will attest, the Ottawa Doomsday Double his Toronto Varsity Blues had to endure lived up to that much to Toronto's chagrin. More on Toronto next time.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13380 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13380)
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13396 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13396)

[Durbansandshark]

We got more shockers north of the border. This one is coming from the women's game: lightly regarded and very young Lethbridge Pronghorns stun the #3 Alberta Pandas in the second game of the weekend series 65-60 in OT while the latter missed a multitude of shots despite its renowned D. Lethbridge had the upset win after losing 75-41 in an easy win for Alberta, snapping their seven game CanadaWest conference winning streak and falling to 10-4 overall, and this puts a severe dent in their hopes to catch up with Saskatchewan. Pronghorns, who never trailed badly, nab their second win this season.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=13381 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13381)

Acadia Axewomen exault and sing "Hallelujah" (figuratively speaking of course) over their first win of the season against 2-6 St. Mary's Huskies 61-56 in a tight one.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=13404 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13404)

#6 Calgary Dinos, with its huge comeback, could've, maybe should've, upset CanadaWest Prairie Division leaders #4 Saskatchewan with all of the foul trouble Saskatchewan had.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/s ... m?id=13372 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13372)

Congratulations to the Canadian Coack K, the legendary Ken Konchalski from St. Francis Xavier, on becoming only the second CIS men's coach to reach 700 victories overall! Yeah, it was a while ago, but it's worthy of celebration. :D
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13410 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13410)

[Durbansandshark]

Been away here on these posts for a few days. But it's not my fault; St. Louis was hit with plenty of snow that saw closings of schools and of libraries, thereby restricting my Internet access. Things are getting back to normal here. So I'll gradually get on back into it with the real push coming next week following the Super Bowl.

So I present to you small random selection to whet your appetite for now:

Alberta Golden Bears take a weekend sweep over the Saskatchewan Huskies to gain ground against the Huskies in the CanadaWest Central Division
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13510 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13510)

#1 Carlton Ravens blast poor RMC 118-71 in Kingston, Ontario to go 12 straight
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13483 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13483)

#2 Ottawa hand the Queen's Gaels, who were without leading scorer Mitch Leger out with a strained ACL, their third consecutive loss
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13481 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13481)

Somebody break up the #2 Windsor Lancers women! They're up on 13 straight wins and play like CIS championship contenders downing the Guelph Gryphons in OUA play. Alisa Wulff scored a game-high 21 points as the Lancers shot 51% from the field...
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13544 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13544)

Another OUA women's roundup lead by Wilfried Laurier Golden Hawks stunning #10 Western Ontario Mustangs 67-59. Also check out another chapter. Also take a look at the latest chapter in the Toronto rivalry between Toronto and York that thr Blues won in. Carleton loses out in a tight one against Queens.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13499 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13499)

...But another 13-game winning streak comes to an end in the women's game when Alberta stops Saskatchewan's
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13502 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13502)

Next week I'll return with and including a retrospective on the third annual MNBA Capital Hoops Classics at the ScotiaBank Place in Ottawa in the eagerly anticipated tense rivalry between #1 Carleton and #2 Ottawa.

[CollegeRecruits]

Doomsday double for sure Durban, but at least we gave them a game. They destroy most teams and we were right there with them. We host them at our house this weekend where we have beaten Ottawa the last 2 years so maybe we can get one win this weekend.

Not sure if you know but Ottawa secured the services of former Syracuse national champion player and Carmello Anthony's team mate, Josh Wright. He was great against us and is definitly a big time player for the CIS level.

By the way Coach K's first name is Steve not Ken, but Im sure he doesnt read this so he wont care. But he is in the news again this week and not for a lot of wins either. He and his assistant coach are in some trouble over an incident that involved his assistant punching a score table official in the head during a game.

We beat Queens and RMC on the weekend so now go to 12-5. We are 3rd in our conference behind the almighty capital teams.

Andrew.

[Durbansandshark]

I'm gonna have to delay my fun Canadian college basketball news until next week, when there's more time for me. I won't ruin the surprise but, uh, Carleton won again. :wink:

[Durbansandshark]

The Carleton Ravens machine keeps winning and winning and winning and winning....

www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13644 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13644)

[Durbansandshark]

OK, been delayed for a while because I've been busy at work and home duties last week. That explains why I just submitted the bit about Carleton that was only a few weeks old last week to keep things going. Canada's CIS basketball is undergoing postseason play right now in each of the conferences, so I'll try to catch up with things in a mini-series this week:

Windsor Lancers narrowly win their 11th over McMaster to start the Ontario University Association weekly men's basketball roundup for Febuary 4, despite the latter's great start. Both teams were at 11-6 after this.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13626 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13626)

A great profile on outgoing Alberta Golden Bears head coach Don Norwood before taking one final crack at the CIS title
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13631 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13631)

Ottawa Gee Gees take it out on Ryerson like Carleton did the day before for Ottawa's 17th win 89-70
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13657 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13657)

Another OUA roundup. Andrew's Toronto Varsity Blues squad loses again to the Carleton juggernaut at their home gym by 20
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13672 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13672)

Final regular season home game for Alberta's Don Horwood, Neb Aleksic, and Justin VanLoo saw those three leave out as winners taking care of over their fierce provincial rivals to the south, #4 Calgary Dinos
www.universitysport.ca/e/m-basketball/s ... m?id=13652 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m-basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13652)

Congrats to Concordia Stingers' Damian Buckley for eclipsing the 1000-point in a home win over Laval with his 19 (he needed 12). Plus Concordia's got tiebreakers over Laval and UQAM.
www.universitysport.ca/e/M-basketball/s ... m?id=13645 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/M-basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13645)

Over out west in CanadaWest conference, #10 Trinity Western Spartans defeated #7 Victoria Vikes at the buzzer with a three-pointer from TWU guard Louis Hurd from Spokane, Washington in front of a capacity crowd at Trinity Western University's Donald E. Enarson Gym in Game 1 of the CanadaWest Pacific Division semis.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13704 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13704)

...But the Vikes avenge the Spartans in Game 2 to even the series.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13727 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13727)

Alberta Golden Bears were just that, golden (well, almost: both teams were nervous and turnover-prone at the first half in Game 1), against Saskatchewan Huskies in a best-of-three CanadaWest semifinal sweep before a CanadaWest Final Four matchup against, guess who? #6 Dinos for another chapter in that rivalry with a trip to Ottawa at stake.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13739 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13739)

Gee Gees take care of Queen's, dismantling the Gales 100-64, one game before facing the Carleton Ravens again to close out the regular season, one game behind them then. Josh Gibson-Bascombe had a game-high 23 points and fifth-yearer Dax Dessareualt produced 22 and seven boards. Josh Wright had 11 as Ottawa caosted in the first half. But trouble beyond the margin and play hurt Queen's: Robert Shaw was slapped with two ts and Tim Boyle had one himself resulting in a bizarre sequence that resulted in Gibson-Bescombe shooting SIX free throws.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13742 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13742)

Western Ontario Mustangs clinch the Ontario University Athletics West Division title (and with that, home court and a bye) with two games remaining, while being dismal on the charity stripe, knocked off Waterloo.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/s ... m?id=13718 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13718)

To be continued....

[Durbansandshark]

Now it's the women's turn.

Winnipeg Wesman third-year PG Callie Gooch nets 25 points in a CanadaWest Great Plains Division Game 1 semifinal win over Manitoba 82-66 for #8 Winnipeg.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13706 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13706)
Amy Odigan's free throws at the end of the Game 2 send away Manitoba for the series win
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13749 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13749)

#1 Simon Fraser Clan crushes its semifinal opponent Trinity Western in dominant fashion 102-55 at the SFU Gym.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13726 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13726)
Then sweep the away the Spartans to face British Columbia in the Pacific Division Final for their 23rd consecutive win
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13740 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13740)

UBC Thunderbirds score an upset over #7 Victoria Vikings with a wild finish to end Game 1 that was promoted as a duel between the bigs of British Columbia's Leanne Evans (20 points, 6 rebounds, 6 blocks) and Victoria's star Kayla Dykstra (13 points and 13 rebounds).
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13709 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13709)
UBC since finished the job thanks to Lisa St. Pierre's 13 points in the fourth quarter.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13741 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13741)

Carleton Ravens women celebrate Senior Night--Julie Hoo, Ines Jasic, and Tanya Perry all are Ravens seniors--with a school regular season record of 14-8 in the program's history against RMC and a trip to the OUA quarterfinals versus Queen's University.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13731 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13731)

Announcing the 2008-09 Quebec School Sports Federation Women's Basketball All-Star teams
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13762 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13762)

Win or go home time in the Ontario University Athletics playoffs
Ontario West Division:
Guelph vs. McMaster
Lakehead vs. Wilfried Laurier

Ontario East Division:
Carleton vs. Queen's
Laurentian vs. Ryerson

Waterloo, Western Ontario, Toronto, and Ottawa all earned first round byes to the semis scheduled for this past weekend.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13778 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13778)

Women's OUA roundup with McMaster, Carleton, Ryerson, and Wilfried Laurier all advancing into the OUA semis
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13788 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13788)

#3 Regina Cougars claim the CanadaWest Great Plains Division in a sweep over Winnipeg "[winning] it with our defense" and sqeaking out a Game 2 win to clinch it
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13795 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13795)
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13823 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13823)

The latest chapter in the fierce and tough Vancouver CanadaWest Pacific Division rivalry between #1 SFU and #8 UBC has just been written in the playoffs. #1 Simon Fraser wins that one out and keeps their streak going to the CanadaWest Final against #3 Regina.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13820 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13820)
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13846 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13846)

#5 Alberta Pandas took Game 1 over #4 Saskatchewan in the CanadaWest Central Finals
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13818 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13818)

To be continued...

[Durbansandshark]

With all of the delays here and my work schedule preventing to be as in depth as I would really like here, I'll give you a quickie about the eight teams across Canada that make up CIS 2009 women's basketball field that will participate in Regina, Saskatchewan as they try to claim the Bronze Baby starting Friday (seedings in order).

1. Simon Fraser Clan (CanadaWest champs, ranked #1 in Canada)
2. Regina Cougars (CanadaWest finalist)
3. Windsor Lancers (OUA champs)
4. Alberta Pandas (CanadaWest Central Division--2nd place)
5. Laval Rouge D'Or (QSSF champs)
6. Saskatchewan Huskies (4th CanadaWest Playoffs, hosts)
7. Cape Breton Capers (AUS champs)
8. Ottawa Gee Gees (OUA finalists)

This means we'll have a new champ in Canada. I'll reserve the great details until after the men's Final 8 in Ottawa is over. I'll catch up to speed next week. Yes, March Madness the Canadian version is in full effect! :D

[Durbansandshark]

OK. Catching up time here with the March Madness Canadian version in full effect. Again, I will refrain from mentioning what went down at the Final 8s in both men and women until after the men are through. But I will get into the conference tournaments in both. It'll be in parts.

York Lions' Laura MacCallum, in her best season yet as a decorated OUA fifth-year senior G, became the new Lion in the den as she became York's alltime leading scorer in women's basketball with her 28-points putting her at 1377, also making her into 4th in the OUA's alltime scorers list. But that came at a loss on the road to the Ottawa Gee Gees. She needed only 11 to eclipse former Lion Nastassia Subban's 1359 and 21 in the case of Laurier's Meaghan McGrath. Congratulations to her! :)
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m/id=13595 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm/id=13595)

University of Fraser Valley Cascades women get blown out in the Saskatoon-Edmonton double road swing (so did the men) to finish out the regular season. They even continue the Chilliwack Storm-to-UFV pipeline with high school stars Courtney Bartel and Nicole Wierks recently signing.
http://www.bclocalnews.com/fraser_valle ... 29004.html (http://www.bclocalnews.com/fraser_valley/abbynews/sports/38829004.html)
http://www.bclocalnews.com/fraser_valle ... 98538.html (http://www.bclocalnews.com/fraser_valley/abbynews/sports/39998538.html)
http://www.bclocalnews.com/fraser_valle ... 08234.html (http://www.bclocalnews.com/fraser_valley/abbynews/sports/39108234.html)

Windsor's Iva Baklova's impressive double double (13 points, 15 rebounds) in the #2 Lancers' early February statement game over McMasters, of which the Marauders had no answer to the Prague native, 65-64 that propelled them to 18-1 at the time to lead the OUA weekly women's basketball roundup. Though Brock and Guelph were still below .500.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13625 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13625)

Another milestone happened at another Ontario school, Western Ontario's Amanda Anderson, a driven player broke a 13-year scoring record set by Michele Vespini in 1996--1171...and she still has one more year left. Anderson did it with her first bucket in the game against Lakehead.
http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/Sports/Coul ... 6-sun.html (http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/Sports/Coulmnists/Dalla_Costa_Morris/2009/02/05/8270856-sun.html)
After the game, Anderson now stands alone (Mustangs men also defeat Lakehead's Thunderwolves)
http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/Sports/2009 ... 06031.html (http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/Sports/2009/02/07/8306031.html)

#1 SFU women sweeps the Trinity Western Spartans
http://www2.canada.com/langleyadvance/n ... 058df16f80 (http://www2.canada.com/langleyadvance/news/sports/story.html?id=d1524a3b-436d-4a8c-8fa5-da058df16f80)

And the Clan continues their win streak to 20 with Winnipeg as their victim here thanks to Robyn Buna's 25 points.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_baske ... m?id=13633 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13633)

RMC finally won a game over the York Lions. But they came crashing back down by Laurentian and its three players who scored in double figures, despite keeping it close. The Voyaguers men took the RMC Paladins out more conspicously
http://www.thesudburystar.com/ArticleDi ... ?e=1426667 (http://www.thesudburystar.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1426667)

Regina Cougars won their regular season closer with a 30-point thrubbing of the Brandon Bobcats to go 18-4.
http://www2.canada.com/reginaleaderpost ... 463f685703 (http://www2.canada.com/reginaleaderpost/news/sports/story.html?id=ae946800-2e2b-4e4d-b001-76463f685703)

The Western Ontario Mustangs women went into the Ontario University Athletics conference tournament to face McMaster. Starting with 2004, the Mustangs never advanced further than the OUA semifinals after winning over Windsor Lancers in 2003. Astonishing part of that is all of them came at Alumni Hall. If they wanted to win the OUA title, that pressure weighed heavily on them. But the Mustang women say the past isn't a problem.
http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/Sports/Univ ... 6-sun.html (http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/Sports/UniversitySports/2009/02/20/8462446-sun.html)
Mustangs' "purple curtain" came down on the Marauders season
http://www.thespec.com/Sports/article/518565

Regina Cougars women were about to get it on again versus the cross-provincial rivals Saskatchewan a couple of weeks ago on a Friday. For revenge.
http://www2.canada.com/reginaleaderpost ... a87b896b95 (http://www2.canada.com/reginaleaderpost/news/sports/story.html?id=7968513c-2745-4927-ab16-02a87b896b95)

[Durbansandshark]

Three universities, all in British Columbia, are vying for promoted membership into CanadaWest athletics for the 2010-2011 season to become the first school or schools to join since the University College of Fraser Valley Cascades in 2007. This article focuses on the last pitch for the Prince George-based University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) Northern Timberwolves, whose only other sports in the athletics program is soccer. Worry what will prevent them from entry are the logistics and expenses of traveling to Prince George. Other schools in this bidding are Vancouver Island University (VIU, or Malaspina) Mariners (men's team went 18-0 in the regular season) and the University of British Columbia-Okanagan Heat. Actually UFV AND Trinity Western are probationary member, so their membership status evaluation is going to be up into question soon.
http://www.princegeorgecitizen.com/2009 ... tatus.html (http://www.princegeorgecitizen.com/20090201173029/sports/sports/cis-meeting-convene-on-unbc-sports-status.html)

VIU's pitch for CIS CanadaWest entry:
http://www.canada.com/University+makes+ ... story.html (http://www.canada.com/University+makes+second+pitch+join+family/1243284/story.html)

In a tight battle of two Montreal universities, especially in the second half, one English, one French, that McGill won in against UQAM to boost their playoff hopes. Both teams made sure rebounding was a high priority in this one with UQAM the stronger of the two on that.
http://media.www.mcgilltribune.com/medi (http://media.www.mcgilltribune.com/media/storage/paper234/news/2009/02/03/Sports/BasketballRedman.86.Uqam.78Mcgill.Vaults.Into.Play off.Race.With.Road.Win-3609676.shtml) ... 9676.shtml

Trinity Western Spartans' winning streak snapped at 12
http://www2.canada.com/langleyadvance/n ... 854125197d (http://www2.canada.com/langleyadvance/news/sports/story.html?id=39fc9f6f-d797-45ac-8117-97854125197d)

No country for Big Men: UBC beats Calgary and Lethbridge on the road
http://www.ubyssey.ca/?p=7237

Carleton Ravens stayed atop the CIS rankings in men's basketball after the third annual MNBA Capital Hoops Classic against then-#2 Ottawa. A post on that is coming soon.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13605 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13605)

Alberta Golden Bears focuses on the celebration of outgoing head coach Don Horwood and his fifth-year seniors Neb Aleksic and Justin VanLoo against the Dinos.
http://www.thegatewayonline.ca/articles ... inst-dinos (http://www.thegatewayonline.ca/articles/sports/2009/02/05/bears-celebrate-horwood-fifth-years-against-dinos)

Instead of continuing the three CanadaWest divisions--Pacific, Plains, and Central, a result of the merger between the Great Plains and CanadaWest in 2001--CanadaWest will have just two divisions in their mega-conference starting next season. So it's a new look for it. Partly done to reduce the number of games Pacific teams, which currently plays to 23 with the other teams battling in 22, this new look will definitely impact the playoff structure with the introduction of a wildcard. Makes sense with the Central and Plains Divisions becoming the East. After all, aren't all the Alberta schools (Alberta, Lethbridge, Calgary, and Saskatchewan) in the prairies themselves? But the outlook of the East is bloated though.
http://www.canada.com/look+Canada+West+ ... story.html (http://www.canada.com/look+Canada+West+hoops/1262412/story.html)

All eyes on the CanadaWest Playoffs with matchups determined during that weekend
Opening Round-Pacific Division
MEN:
SFU at UBC
Trinity Western vs. Victoria

WOMEN:
Trinity Western at SFU
UBC at Victoria
http://www2.canada.com/theprovince/news ... 1982d62c54 (http://www2.canada.com/theprovince/news/sports/story.html?id=e6712f41-4661-4aed-aec5-6a1982d62c54)

Second half heroics for Alberta Golden Bears in the final regular season home game for Horwood and company against #4 Calgary before a packed house. Back and forth trading buckets, dunks, fouls, leads, and momentum but the Golden Bears nipped this one out when the dust settled.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13652 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13652)

Greg Francis follows in fellow ex-Canadian national team member and Laurentian coach Shawn Swords' footsteps in becoming a head coach at a CIS university. And Francis now is the chosen successor to the legendary Don Norwood at Alberta. In any coaching job, obviously it's a tough act to follow a legend who's been there for years. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Give Francis a few years into the job to see if he's up to it. People in the know say he's a bright and young star in the making. What will the recruiting be like for him to lure high school guys and foreigners into Edmonton to keep the success channeling Alberta's way? Is he going to utilize his US ties dating from his Fairfield days for this? Will he keep Norwood's philosophy or go with something different? His cred as a former wearer of the maple leaf red (played in Sydney) will certainly help in that, and the fact the Golden Bears a consistent winner in CanadaWest serves as another factor.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13673 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13673)

Calgary drew first blood to bounce Alberta in Game 1 of the CanadaWest Central Division Final
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13821 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13821)

#9-ranked Trinity Western eliminated Victoria in the opening round, but #2 British Columbia, which got a bye, was waiting for them in a battle of the heavyweights that the Thunderbirds nipped over the Spartans 83-80 in a passionate War Memorial Gymnasium in the Pacific Division Final. Chris Dwyck scored 28 points--23 in the second half in Game 1.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13819 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13819)

Laurentian cagers' season ends with a loss to York in a must-win for the Voyauguers. The Voyauguers drown in this one in Swords debut season as coach.
http://www.thesudburystar.com/ArticleDi ... ?e=1447380 (http://www.thesudburystar.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1447380)

Regina Cougars' season is over too with a loss to Brandon in a heartbreaking Game 3 Great Plains Division Final.
http://www2.canada.com/reginaleaderpost ... c36f1ef5d8 (http://www2.canada.com/reginaleaderpost/news/sports/story.html?id95007001c-c475-4f39-9894-17c36f1ef5d8)

As you looked at roster of teams in the CIS women's basketball final, you noticed British Columbia is not on there. That's because #1 SFU Clan (22-1 in the regular season) swept them out in the CanadaWest Pacific Division Final, keeping their #1 status. And Carleton is still #1 in the men.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13846 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13846)

UBC vying for another CanadaWest crown, their third they hoped to go with their Pacific Division title, in the CanadaWest Final Four starting with Calgary, Brandon, and wildcard Trinity Western at War Memorial Gym.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=13850 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13850)

March Madness Canada really gets into the full effect mode! I need to get into this before this week is up and its start to get you all up to speed on what's actually going on right now in Canada--another catching up is coming next week. The Final 8 National Basketball Championship in Ottawa presented by Milk Energy is about to take place tomorrow and #1 Carleton desperately wants to win it all on their home soil (and hopes for major attendance records in Canadian college basketball) at the ScotiaBank Place--they have one more shot to do that next year before it returns to Halifax in 2011. If the Ravens machine do win the W.P. McGee Trophy this year, it'll be their sixth in seven years. Another new champ is going to be crowned like in the women (and Acadia isn't here either). The other seven teams will be gunning for them to have that opportunity. The seedings were announced late last week:

1. Carleton Ravens (OUA champions, 21-1 regular season, 3-0 in playoffs, hosts)
2. Calgary Dinos (CanadaWest champions, 17-5 regular season, 4-0 in playoffs)
3. University of British Columbia Thunderbirds (CanadaWest finalists, 21-2 regular season, 5-1 playoffs)
4. Western Ontario Mustangs (OUA finalists, 19-3 regular season, 2-1 playoffs)
5. Ottawa Gee Gees (OUA bronze medalists, 19-3 regular season, 2-1 playoffs)
6. Dalhousie Tigers (Atlantic University champs, 13-7 regular season, 3-0 playoffs)
7. Concordia Stingers (QSSF champs, 12-4 regular season, 2-0 playoffs)
8. St. Francis Xavier X-Men (wildcard-AUS finalist, 17-3 regualr season, 1-1 playoffs)

St. Francis Xavier was quite a surprise considering the turmoil that would have derailed any momentum following their road game at Cape Breton (I'll get to that in-depth next time). That's a testament to Steve Konchalski's vast experience and steady hand. Will the X-Men do it like their Atlantic University brethren the Axemen last year, but do it in a earlier round? Or will they roll over as widely expected? Tonight is the Final 8 All-Canadian Reception at the Marriott Hotel's Victoria Room. Surely, the Gee Gees, already familiar with the ScotiaBank Place, will like to boost the spectator capacity in their game, since it's just a drive away.

Tomorrow's games:
#2 Calgary vs. #7 Concordia
#3 British Columbia vs. #5 Ottawa
#4 Western Ontario vs. #6 Dalhousie
#1 Carleton vs. #8 St. Francis Xavier

Saturday:
Consolation Games and Semifinals

Sunday:
Fifth place game and National Final

The Score Television Network, a young Canadian sports TV cable network, will broadcast the last two quarterfinal games, both national semis, and the national championship game all live with webcasts of all games.

http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=14022 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14022)

CIS Final 8 preview: "Will Carleton seek redemption this year?" is the main story.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_baske ... m?id=14037 (http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14037)
Official website: http://www.universitysport.ca/e/final8/2009

[Durbansandshark]

A flurry of activity went down as I mentioned in the Canadian college basketball postseason. This week, when I have more time to deal with, will bring catch up to speed about all that. As well as other situations that I had yet to catch up on.

[Durbansandshark]

Here's one I can do briefly: The University of British Columbia Thunderbirds seriously has delayed plans to move into the NCAA in the near future because of too many critical questions left unanswered in the school's view. Its applications has been delayed until 2010 at the earliest. Cross-city rival Simon Fraser already announced it will join in the NCAA pilot program that is for 10 years that was voted in with a landslide, confirming last month of its application last month. More on Monday.

[Durbansandshark]

Next week, I'll devote myself to the Final 8 CIS Championships for both the men and women that took place in Ottawa and Regina, respectively, the St. Francis Xavier-Cape Breton incident, and the 2009 MBNA Capital Hoops Classic, among others, on this subject because it's now after the 2008-09 season and it's way too damn long (much of it can be blamed on the boards being down).

Got some updates on the CIS coaching front to bring forth right now to tide you over.

Two Canadian women's basketball coaches are retiring just this completed season. Unlike in the more-lucrative but high-stakes, competitive, pressure-filled, sometimes crass, and increasingly cutthroat world of college basketball south of the border, CIS coaches last much longer than on average, like, five years here (at least in the major programs and increasingly mid-and low-majors) even if the program isn't up to snuff in the eyes of the AD, boosters, and the like. So it's time to salute them.

Dalhousie Tigers' Dr. Carolyn Savoy stepped down after 32 years on the job there and an additional 7 years previously over at their AUS rivals St. Francis Xavier (now here's some additional Atlantic University basketball here on these boards) with an impressive winning percentage--858-292 alltime in the CIS, 738-240 with the Tigers. She's a four-time AUS Coach of the Year...but had never taken the CIS title in her time there. For players who were there 3-5 years, the graduation rate is 100%. With her accomplishments, she's been in active demand for speaking engagements and is respected in the Nova Scotia community, building and contributing to the basketball scene there. If you can spot some longevity connections and comparisons to Tennessee coaching legend Pat Summitt, there are: Savoy got her PhD in Sports Psychology in Tennessee and got Summitt to pen the forward to Savoy's "The Art of Coaching".
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14184

Brock's women's coach Chris Critelli is hanging her whistle too after 25 coach and 35 years involved with basketball. She will serve as Brock's assistant AD after this. Though not as illustrious as Savoy in coaching, the St. Catherines, Ontario native had her successful moments, including her 2005-06 Brock team that won 19 consecutive OUA games, a school record, part of a total that accumulated 393 victories. Under her, the Badgers were almost always a postseason presence, coming into the OUA playoffs 22 out of her 25 chances. That 2005-06 team went on to clinch the OUA West Division with 25 games, five wins short of the Brock Badgers 1982-83 squad won a school record of 30 games. She was just as great as a player with her three-time All-Canadian days in Winnipeg, Laurentian, and later plying her trade with the famed Old Dominion Monarchs AIAW powerhouse teams and was an All-American there. Played for Canada in the 1976 and 1980 national/Olympic teams during her 7 years of service starting at 17 years old and later becoming an assistant on the program from 1989-94. Her efforts as a players resulted in three bronzes in the World Championships, FISU, and the Pan Am Games in 1979. Then played with the old WPBL's Chicago Hustle.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14193

Critelli's assistant Si Khounviseth steps up to succeed from her as an interim coach. It's always a tough act to follow when you're the next one after a legend. So his hiring will not act like it's an unfamiliar face coming into a program. One thing Khounviseth got on his side is that he knows the players and the system., Plus he's got energy, commitment, and the enthusiasm. He'll recruit hard for the best players.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14203

Lakehead Thunderwolves' women's coach John Kriener gets a multi-year contract extension as a reward for going into the OUA playoffs, despite an alltime 81-119 record.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14225

I wish I could get into the Lethbridge Pronghorns more. But anyways, Dave Adams was named as the new head coach of the Pronghorns. Matter of fact, this is his second go-round in Lethbridge, Alberta following a third place 2001-02 CanadaWest Central Division finish as interim coach--beating Calgary in a tiebreaker. A Pronghorn alum in basketball (1976-81), Adams already holds of coaching experience in southern Alberta beginning at high school. Now the work on the relationships with current players and the recruitment of new ones begins.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14194

Next door in Manitoba, the Manitoba Bisons got their own new head coach in high school coach Kirby Schepp for the departed Robert Suffield, Manitoba coach for 23 years.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14230

With the move to just two divisions in the CanadaWest, why not expand to include the likes of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) and Vancouver Island Mariners?

Ste-Foy Dynamiques won the women's CCAA title 70-62 over the Sheridan Tech Bruins. That and more of those postseason tournaments will come next week.

[Durbansandshark]

At last, the Final 8 2009 championships in Regina, Saskatchewan and Ottawa, Ontario have arrived.

However...to start things off with I couldn't pass this up from the All-Canadian Concordia Stingers' Damian Buckley. His lucky random shot being on the floor took place during a preseason Labour Day Weekend CIS-NCAA clash against Virginia on August 30. After this moment racked up 70,000 hits on the Concordia Athletics' YouTube channel in over 8 months, Fox Sports' Best Damn Sports Show Period came calling and put it as among the BDSSP Top 50 Random Acts Of Awesome. Why didn't I checked this out much earlier?
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14283 (video included)

Anyway, back to the Final 8. The women's turn. The fight for the Bronze Baby. #1 Simon Fraser looked unstoppable all throughout the 2008-09 CIS season being undefeated coming into Regina after clinching the CanadaWest postseason title. That winning continued when they and #8-seed Ottawa Gee Gees squared off in the first CIS women's quarterfinal. Too much Simon Fraser Clan thanks to fifth-year senior Courtney Gerwig, Laurelle Weigl, Robyn Buna, Kelsey Horsting, and Matteke Huntzler as the Clan pulled away with an insurmountable margin 89-42 with their aggressive D forcing 23 Ottawa turnovers.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=13987 (recap video included)
http://www.youtube.com/watch/v=6wV-n_riDtI

Quarterfinal #2: A relatively young #4 Alberta Pandas team defeat #5 Laval Rouge et D'Or by 20, 84-64. All Ashley Wigg in the second half. Laval had four players in double figures, including CIS Rookie of the Year Chantelle St-Amour.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/championships/w_basketball/2009/story_detail.cfm?id=13989
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=haC8TmzHVAY

Quarterfinal #3: #2 Regina Cougars performs to a happy hometown SRO crowd of 2212 66-51 to advance to the semifinals over AUS champs #7 Cape Breton Capers. All-Canadian and AUS Player of the Year Kelsey Hodgson struggled from the field. Regina Fifth-year senior post player Chelsea Cassano was game MVP with 15 points and 10 boards.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/championship/w_basketball/2009/story_detail.cfm?id=13991
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NciX3zyeRmo

Quarterfinal #4: The final one of the night had another nice crowd. This one more for the pro-#6 Saskatchewan Huskies, but it wasn't going to be their night despite coming back and tying the game several times versus the #3 Windsor Lancers, who eventually pulled away. Dranadia Roc, a thrid year guard from Montreal, scored a tournament high of 21 for the Lancers' win.
http://www.universitysport.ca/e/championship/w_basketball/2009/story_detail.cfm?id=13993
www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhXUJcRfWNs

SFU and Alberta squared off in one of the two 2009 CIS National Semifinal games in a rematch of the 2007 CIS Bronze Baby Championship that the Clan won. It was more of the same result here in Regina: Simon Fraser showed again why they're seeded #1 in Canadian women's college basketball--they dominated over the Pandas. Robyn Buna got 21 points for the Clan and calimed game MVP honors.
www.universitysport.ca/e/championship/w_basketball/2009/story_detail.cfm?id=14004
www.youtube.com/watch?v=fodM54dyaf4

Semifinal #2 saw the hosts Regina Cougars giving another reason for the hometown crowd to rally around them en route to the Bronze Baby Championship game. Knocking off Windsor 86-68. The Cougars went on to the national championship game for the second consecutive time. Here was hoping for Cougars being the hosts in the Lions' Den and the experience from that would be the charm.
www.universitysport.ca/e/championship/w_basketball/2009/story_detail.cfm?id=14006
www.youtube.com/watch?v=6XYZ5OJV4do

Consolation time for those who couldn't advance. #5 Laval played for pride and for their fallen teammate, #6 Elise Jourbet, who was injured and whose number is emblazoned on their arms. The Quebec champs convincingly beat Ottawa on the strength Myriam Lamarre's 24 points 75-58. The Gees Gees came as close as eight points against Rouge et D'Or, but that was as far as they came.
www.universitysport.ca/e/championship/w_basketball/2009/story_detail.cfm?id=13995

First team All-Canadian from Cape Breton, Kelsey Hodges, exploded for 29 points in the consolation semifinal against its CanadaWest rivals Saskatchewan 72-63.
www.universitysport.ca/e/championship/w_basketball/2009/story_detail.cfm?id=13997

The consolation final between Cape Breton and Laval was something both teams can hold their heads high after disappointing ends and use their experience for next year. Capers finish fifth (2-1) and the Rouge et D'Or sixth (1-2) in a 67-58 Cape win. Hodges was too much and finished 20-20 at the charity stripe.
www.universitysport.ca/e/championship/w_basketball/2009/story_detail.cfm?id=14017
www.youtube.com/watch?v=GD8Mv5njFIg

In the Bronze Medal thrid place game, four Alberta Panda seniors can leave the school with some satisfaction. The game was a thriller versus Windsor, but that game earned the second CIS medal in three years. Meanwhile, CIS Final 8 debutants Windsor played very well score-wise, but shot 30% from the field and can learn from that. Both teams rallied back and forth but Alberta came out on top 64-62.
www.universitysport.ca/e/championship/w_basketball/2009/story_detail.cfm?id=14019
www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DFbpw1NMv4

At last the National Championship Game for that precious Bronze Baby between #1 Simon Fraser and the hosts Regina. And this was close all throughout in front of another SRO crowd of 2440, mostly cheering for the Cougars. But the Clan ends up winning their fourth Bronze Baby in eight years with a thrilling 68-62 win, so that the CIS title stays in Vancouver for the third consecutive year and in BC for eight years (SFU has 4, UBC has 3, and Victoria has 1 since 2001). The Cougars kept things close, even leading at halftime, but it wasn't enough as the Clan surged to win.
www.universitysport.ca/e/championship/w_basketball/2009/story_detail.cfm?id=14028
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThYkEBkdXwg

[Durbansandshark]

(Delayed for a week. But anyway...)

Onto Ottawa later on that week (March 13-15). This is where March Madness Canadian style really kicks it up several notches nationally. The venue: ScotiaBank Place (French: Place BanqueScotia), home of the NHL's Ottawa Senators. The place serves as the home for the second consecutive year in the city's three year run of the CIS men's championship, the Final 8 CIS Men's Basketball Championship 2009 Presented By Milk (8 Finalistes Championnat Masculin de Basketball de SIC 2009 Presente Par Le Lait in French). for that week and seemingly for much of the 2008-09 season and years before now, Ottawa IS the captial of the CIS men's college basketball, not just serving as the national captial. Both Carleton and, to a lesser extent, Ottawa were among the top 10 in the CIS men's rankings. Very intriguing storylines coming into this. Will the #1-seed Carleton, as they continue their winning streak, seek redemption by regaining the W.P. McGee crown in its de facto home court with the Final 8 in its second year there after getting upset by Acadia in a classic double OT semifinal last year? Will they overcome the haunting memory? How will Ottawa perform? Will anybody seriously challenge the juggernaut Ravens and possibly stop them? Will anybody from CanadaWest go deep? Will we see Vancouver steal the dominance and set national supremacy in the form of UBC? How about anyone repping the QSSF and AUS? Will the attendance at the ScotiaBank Place be high in the face of the global economic downturn? Read on for the fun, people...

To start off things, we go to the first quarterfinal between the CanadaWest champs #2 Calgary Dinos and #7 Concordia Stingers. The Bekkering brothers score well more than half of the Dinos points to put away the Stingers 76-67 and advance into the semifinals for the third time in school history. All-Canadian Ross scorerd 26 as older bro and dunkmeister Henry netted 25.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14064

Quaterfinal #2 was no contest. Dalhousie Tigers were no match for the UBC Thunderbirds, ranked #2 nationally behind Carleton. Five Thunderbirds produced double figures and put an end to 13-year drought of not making it out of the quarterfinals. They dominated from the start and never let it up against the AUS champs. With that, another chapter in the CanadaWest rivalry between Calgary and British Columbia was ensured. Dalhousie still can't earn a win in the Final 8 since first qualifying in 1996.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14067

Now we get to where the local interest jacks up. Naturally the attendance at the ScotiaBank Place goes up. But it's not the ever-dominant powerhouse Carleton, it's cross-city rival #5-seed Ottawa Gee Gees, who are familiar with the arena themselves. But they forgot the intensity in their game. It was a problem because of the fact that the #4-seed Western Ontario Mustangs, Ottawa's OUA rivals, unleashed a stellar defensive operative that they are so well-known for, especially on the inside game. Matter of fact, the Gee Gees shot only one of their 13 3-point attempts, causing them to shoot 27% overall in that game. The Mustangs actually have an American on the roster--Alex Bzorzowicz faced another American--and he produced defensively with Dax Dessareualt was named game MVP.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14069

As the number one team in the country, Carleton gets priviledges like getting the final slot of the quarterfinals and being on primetime TV. If you've been reading this for a few years now, you certainly didn't expect them to lose to wildcards St. Francis Xavier, did you? Steve Konchalski is indeed a coaching legend in the Canadian scene and has experienced a lot, but he couldn't find any answers or talent contrary to his counterpart Dave Smart. So the OUA champs Ravens crushed the X-Men in front of 8294 with their All-Canadian talent like Stu Turnbull and his 23 points to go again into the semifinals against OUA rivals Western Ontario.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14071

Consolation time: Decee Krah scored 16 points in his 19 minutes of play as Concordia and Damian Buckley help keep Dalhousie (and go home) winless.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14077

The woes continue for STFX. This time Ottawa Gee Gees can at least claim they got a win after that Western Ontario pounding at their stopping grounds with help from Dax Dessareault and Warren Ward.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14079

The national semifinals were indeed very competitive this year. This year, we are assured there will be a OUA-CanadaWest championship game with both semis featuring teams from both conferences battling each other before the W.P. McGee final. University of British Columbia's fifth-year senior Chris Dyck from Winnipeg scored a tournament-high 34 points to send away Calgary in a rematch of the CanadaWest championship game two weeks earlier. Thunderbirds got revenge as they go into their first final since 1987 in search of the first title in 37 years. Calgary still has to wait even longer for theirs after the 79-74 loss.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14083

Last time the Ravens were in the CIS national semis, they got upset by Acadia, who is not here this year, much to the Ravens delight. But the Ravens are stronger than that. But standing in its way for the prize were the Western Ontario Mustangs, and, having played them every so often, they weren't impressed by them, despite being victims twice this season. Can they Ravens be slowed down? With everything on the line, like Carleton's 29-game winning streak, it's all stepped up, defensively and offensively with the better looking plays coming from Western, who set the tone very early. It was an intense game and another thrilling CIS classic--"CIS basketball at its finest", up and down. It looked as though Carleton was not going to make it and Western Ontario was going to hold on. But Stu Turnbull thrillingly won it at the buzzer to advance to the championship to reclaim their crown with their last shot (incredible game highlights from The Score) (www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyHYvck3gbQ).
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14083

[Durbansandshark]

Some measure of pride was at stake with the CIS 2009 consolation final between the Ottawa Gee Gees and Montreal's Concordia Stingers. But the local fans at the ScotiaBank Place were satisfied to see Ottawa, who never trailed, finally win to claim 5th place and witnessed fifth-year senior Dax Dessareault finishing his college career with a double double--22 points and 13 rebounds--in his final game 83-76. Like Temple south of the border under John Cheney, Ottawa had 7 am practices.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14093

OK, the moment you all been waiting for, the 2009 WP McGee Trophy championship game. For Canadian basketball, the ScotiaBank Place sported nice attendance in favo(u)r for the #1 team in the country, the Carleton Ravens, that Sunday afternoon. Can the Ravens reclaim the trophy and the kingdom that has been theirs for much of this decade after being shockingly overthrown last year at home and win 30 straight in the process? Will UBC prevent them from doing so and proclaim Vancouver as the capital of Canadian college basketball this year with the undefeated Simon Fraser women claiming the Bronze Baby the previous week and win one for themselves for oh so long, establishing CanadaWest supremacy? What kind of drama would we be in store following Carleton's All-Canadian Stu Turnbull's thrilling last minute midrange shot in that instant classic over Western Ontario? The crowd was 8003 for this, and Carleton actually trailed early on by 12 against the Thunderbirds, but that Ravens championship experience showed through as they caught up and ultimately won back the title by 10 87-77 at their stomping grounds and home fans. So the king returns and sends off Stu Turnbull, Aaron Doornenkamp, and Robert Saunders as champs! 6-5 F Kevin McCleary had 15, and it could likely be his team next season. That makes six out of W.P. McGee Trophies in seven years and puts Carleton ahead of the Windsor Lancers and two behind Victoria for sole possession of second in titles. UBC lost the rebounding matchup 43-26 and Chris Dyck led the Thunderbirds with 21 points. Josh White and Blaine Lebranche also scored in double figures in a losing effort. Yes, I'm a Ravens fans, I'm not ashamed to admit; winning does help get your name out there.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14094
www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWMpUBqmfJE (highlights from The Score)

Congratulations to the Simon Fraser Clan and the Carleton Ravens on their CIS championship seasons! :)

So, one March Madness ended in Canada while another one much bigger started several days later that week south of the border (and ended right at the Canadian border incidently in Detroit)...

[Durbansandshark]

Now with all of the Final 8 2009 stuff out of the way, I can now play catch up with some of the stuff that happened or happening in CIS basketball.

First off, Acadia basketball programs announced both their men's and women's interim head coaches will become more full time. Bev Greenlaw and Stephen Baur are pleased about that. Baur was reloading after the Axemen's CIS Final appearance in 2008 with several recruits coming in in August, while Greenlaw's got a couple of local recruits from Horton High to bring aboard.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14339

[Durbansandshark]

Good luck to Alberta Golden Bears grad Alex Steele on trying to crack the Canadian National Team roster.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14361

[Durbansandshark]

An update on CanadaWest's expansion plans: CanadaWest has decided not to expand due to the fact that its future scheduling proposals wasn't satisfactory to all of the member schools--both current members, applying members like Vancouver Island, Northern British Columbia, and UBC-Okanagan, and CanadaWest's recent additions, Thompson Rivers and Fraser Valley. VIU's athletic director Bruce Hunter says to the Nanaimo News Bulletin if the Mariners were going to make the commitment to jump in talent level, which they see themselves as ready for, they want to play CanadaWest teams and were not going to play the same old teams they're already playing. The conference floated the idea of a Tier 2 division with the aforementioned three with TRU and UFV, but that quickly got nixed

So CanadaWest is going to stickto the status quo for the upcoming season 2009-10 with a new divisional alignment. But the landscape there is changing. Guess what: two additional schools in Alberta, the Mount Royal Cougars (Calgary) and the Grant MacEwen Griffins (Edmonton), are very interested in applying for university status and joining prefering sooner rather later. Hunter says CanadaWest has to figure out how to cope with an expanding membership and say we can't expand any further or, as Hunter suggests, develop a regional two-tier system that will ultimately reflect the dictates of geography there under a national conference (in this 19-20 BC post-secondary institutions field athletic departments). CanadaWest must concoct a workable proposal in the interim to all parties as it undergoes a study about the expansion.

[Durbansandshark]

This is the time of the year in Canadian college basketball where we traditionally learn which CIS schools will announce which opponents from the NCAA they'll face come Labour Day weekend clashes. CIS champs once again, the Carleton Ravens will duke it out versus Townson St. and St. John's (NY) while the women will face Vermont and Farleigh Dickinson.

[Durbansandshark]

Simon Fraser ditches the CIS and CanadaWest for becoming the first Canadian school to participate in the NCAA starting next year after the NCAA approved its application. After a mandatory two-year transitional period, the Clan will be the latest member of the Great Northwest Atletic Conference in the 2011-2012 athletic season. Details next week.

[Durbansandshark]

It sure didn't look like Western Ontario Mustang stars Alex Brozozowicz and Keenan Jepperssen will return to the fold, though that was the hope for the coaches like head coach Brad Campbell. Western Ontario was a heartbreaking Stu Turnbull buzzer beater away from a trip to the CIS 2009 title game in what is regarded as an instant classic. So the Mustangs are rebuilding with four new key additions in a massive overhaul that will also see the departure of Brad Smith, Colin LeFrome, and Matt Curtis. In a recruiting move that includes San Francisco transfer, Halifax's Kenny Perry, the Mustangs went cross-country in recruits but a little undersized. Just don't expect Western Ontario to contend like they did this past season.
http://lfpress.com/cgi-bin/publish.cgi?p=268345&x=articles&s=university_sport s

Fellow OUA Western Division member Windsor Lancers will play against Ohio St. and Georgia Tech in the CIS-NCAA Labour Day Weekend clashes at the Lancers' St. Denis Centre.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14423

What kind of era Ryan Rana hopes to bring in the Toronto college rivalry in men's basketball against the York Lions and the Toronto Blues for the Ryerson Rams? We don't know as of yet, but the new Rams coach aims for loftier goals after Ryerson went into the postseason hosting their first one in over a decade and feels national prominence is around the corner. To do that, Ottawa, Carleton, Western Ontario, Toronto, and Windsor must be contented with. Western Ontario is on rebuilding mode, as stated earlier, so the Rams may have a shot. York could rise too.
www.universitysport.ca/e/m_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14450

Laurier Golden Hawks women's team will host the Vermont Catamounts on August 29. Due to America East restrictions, Vermont, that conference champs who later lost to eventual national and undefeated champs UCONN in the first round, will only send their seniors for the game.
www.universitysport.ca/e/w_basketball/story_detail.cfm?id=14456

[Durbansandshark]

University of Prince Edward Island Panthers women's basketball coach knows her predesecor David Macneill as a member on the Canadian senior women's basketball team coaching staff. Now get to know her (www.upei.ca/athletics/all/notice/2009/upei-hires-new-womens-basketball-coach-carly-clark) and the new UPEI Panther recruits from Ontario and the Island (www.upei.ca/athletics/womens-basketball).

[Durbansandshark]

If you are in Canada and happen to be reading this, I say this is good news and not unexpected for greater exposure. TSN, full name the The Sports Network, announced with the CIS yesterday that it will exclusively broadcast as the English provider for two years the marquee CIS events from 2009-11, including of course basketball events like the Final 8 games (quarterfinals to championship) with TSN2, which the latter will air the women's national championship basketball Bronze Baby game. TSN last aired CIS sports in 2005.

The Score, which I didn't hear about until a couple of years ago, helped managed to maintain a television presence for the CIS like in basketball. But it (and FOX Sports World Canada) isn't as well-known among the Canadian public as a sports network like TSN and Rogers Sportsnet are in the pecking order. With its promotional muscle and quite possibly the need to showcase further Canadian content on TV, TSN can help it out again. But what will The Score do without one of its anchor sports? TSN, which is owned by CTVglobemedia, seemingly has everything significant already like the CFL, NBA, MLS, NHL, and MLB games. The Score has the NCAA football and basketball and its tournament (since 2007) and some NBA games but also a lot of WWE, poker, and MMA programming.

I must note that TSN is part of an official Olympic broadcast media consortium for hosts Canada from CTVglobemedia-Rogers Media for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics in February with its French language sister networks RDS, RDS Info Sport, Rogers Sportsnet, MTV Canada, OLN, Aboriginal People's Television Network (APTN), Discovery Channel, OMNI, ther NHL Network, and flagship terrestrial networks CTV and TQS (since rebranded as V recently) with over 2400 hours of Olympic coverage. For its share TSN will air 300 hours.

[Durbansandshark]

There's some new developments regarding Simon Fraser's entry into the NCAA's D2's Great Northwest Athletic Conference and how the CIS and CanadaWest aren't thrilled about this situation. I'll get to that soon to recap everything.

Can't believe the 2009-10 CIS basketball season is fast upon us. Of course the big story is there for the schools is will Carleton of course close out the upcoming season with a repeat win of the CIS title at the ScotiaBank Place before the Final 8 returns to Halifax this time without the hard-playing and tough All-Canadians Stu Turnbull and Aaron Doornenkamp plus CIS Defensive Player of the Year Rob Saunders all who made 80% of the offensive decisions? The Ravens have no five-year starters or a consensus All-Canadian this time around for Dave Smart to coach; it's young and inexperienced that will see a winning streak snap. With all of the controversy surrounding Simon Fraser, can CanadaWest maintain its stranglehold of the Bronze Baby? Honestly, I can't see any team from the Atlantic, OUA, or Quebec conferences to rival the strength and depth of the teams in CanadaWest, where the balance of power seemingly lies. Ottawa, McMaster, Cape Breton, Laval, and Windsor come closest. Can the Carleton women, fresh off their best season ever, get inspired by the men to go further and possibly win?

To start the 2009-10 season off, I'll present previews of each of the men's team with special help and presentation from Mark Wacyk's CIS basketball blog, who's far more in depth and insightful to what's going on up there than I am. This will go in alphabetical order:

Acadia Axemen (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/09/resurgent-axemen-again-among-aus.html)
Alberta Golden Bears (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/09/rookie-coach-francis-filling-big-shoes.html)
Bishop's Gaiters (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/09/gilpin-rapidly-rebuilding-gaiters.html)
Brock Badgers (scroll down) (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/07/summer-musing.html)
Calgary Dinos (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/09/dinos-plan-to-get-over-hump-this-season.html)
Cape Breton Capers (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/capers-should-be-right-there-again.html)
Carleton Ravens (see Brock Badgers and scroll down)
Dalhousie Tigers (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/tigers-look-to-build-on-nationals.html)
Guelph Gryphons (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/07/gryphs-retool.html)
Lakehead Thunderwolves (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/thunderwolves-pin-hopes-on-second.html)
Laurier Golden Hawks (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/deep-maturing-golden-hawks-look-to-take.html)
Laval Rouge D'Or (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/09/depth-maturing-stars-lead-laval.html)
Lethbridge Pronghorns (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/pronghorns-start-fresh-with-coach-from.html)
The second half of the CIS roster comes soon.

From what I heard, the just-completed CIS-NCAA Labour Day clashes in Canada will be the last ones at least for now because the NCAA has earlier this year banned them.

[Durbansandshark]

Unlike here south of the border, there are no college basketball previews published for the CIS that are published throughout Canada for fans. Would like to see that in the future. Though the sport's interest is indeed growing thanks to the likes of Carleton's recent dominance for one example, it still lacks the gravitas and pull the NCAA has. Indeed there are many big time NCAA fans in Canada, male and female, who follow it as much if not than the CIS. It takes time to grow and mature.

On that note, here's part two of the CIS men's college basketball preview 2009-10 with a look at each school:

Manitoba Bisons (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/manitoba-bisons-update.html)
McGill Redmen (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/plenty-of-depth-sets-redmen-sights-on_23.html)
McMaster Mauraders (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/mac-reloads.html)
Ottawa Gee Gees (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/gee-gees-strive-for-consistency.html)
Regina Cougars (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/09/veteran-cougars-poised-to-repeat-for.html)
Ryerson Rams (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/09/rana-set-to-rebuild-rams.html)
St. Francis Xavier X-Men (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/st-fx-update.html)
St. Mary's Huskies (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/moser-candidate-looks-to-bring-huskies.html)
Toronto Varsity Blues (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/varsity-blues-look-to-take-the-next-step.html)
Trinity Western Spartans (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/09/top-recruiting-class-pushes-twu-into.html)
University of British Columbia Thunderbirds (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/stacked-t-birds-look-to-continue-cw.html)
University of New Brunswick Reds (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/09/roster-turn-around-continues-for-baker.html)
University of Prince Edward Island Panthers (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/09/davies-pushes-panthers-towards-top.html)
Victoria Vikings (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/09/can-uvic-fly-under-radar-in-canada-west.html)
Waterloo Warriors (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/09/veteran-warriors-have-big-plans-with.html)
Western Ontario Mustangs (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/07/western-looks-to-rebound-smith-to-play.html)
Windsor Lancers (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/athletic-recruiting-class-to-keep.html)
Winnipeg Wesmen (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/08/maturing-wesmen-push-toward-top-to.html)
York Lions (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/09/bigger-deeper-lions-poised-to-revisit.html)

UPDATE:Looks as though Simon Fraser is joining the NCAA D2's Great Northwest Athletic Division earlier than expected in 2011 rather 2012. Provisional members of a conference have to wait two years of candidacy before becoming a full-fledged member eligible for conference and NCAA tournament play. The GNAC and its members Alaska-Anchorage Seawolves, Alaska-Fairbanks Nanooks, Central Washington Wildcats, Montana St.-Billings Yellowjackets, Northern Nazerene Crusaders, St. Martin's Saints, Seattle Pacific Falcons, Western Oregon Wolves, and the Western Washington Vikings all welcome the Clan with open arms. One legit issue dealing with the change to join the USA is of actually saving money on travel--it's costlier when traveling to your CanadaWest rivals in Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and even in its own home province for games with UFV up in Kamloops. From its suburban Vancouver home in Burnaby, BC, Simon Fraser go travel to several of its new rivals for games within a 2 hour drive. Works out for both parties of SFU and Division 2: Simon Fraser gets better and closer competition and the GNAC has an opportunity to geographically balance itself out its alignment in the West, especially in the northwest for football. And it might have been even more challenging if UNBC and Vancouver Island joined. You very much have to go through the Canadian Rockies, which is costly. In the case of CIS basketball, at least more so with the women, the program always need further challenges and better all-around competition. This is why a lot of Canadian high school athletes--in this case the 147 playing in all levels of NCAA basketball-- flock south of the border in favor of the NCAA: better competition, greater exposure, and potentially free scholarships. It's actually costlier for a Canadian to be in the CIS than in NCAA. But many Canadians, as St. Francis Xavier coaching legend Steve Konchalski notes, end up sitting on the bench after getting the scholarships.

But Simon Fraser's admittance also brings forth a dilemna for the CIS. CIS scholarships limits athletes to tuition and fees but no room and board like in the NCAA. Furthermore, only a handful of Canadian post-secondary institutions are actually interested in joining the NCAA. So don't look for a CIS-NCAA merger in the future; neither Division I nor Division III are planning to do likewise. Only one other CIS school has publicly expressed interested in joining, and that's, incidently, SFU's Vancouver rival, the University of British Columbia. The Thunderbirds actually petitioned the NCAA for Canadian inclusion to begin with, openly discussed being a D2 member if it can find a home for its hockey programs (Division 2 doesn't sponsor hockey).

In any case, the Clan will have to comply with US law and NCAA regulations. For example, SFU will have to comply with Title IX laws and must observe the NCAA four-year college eligibity as opposed to the five year CIS window, which poses an interesting situation by having almost half of the 2008-09 CIS women's champs graduating. The players in questions are Robyn Buna, Kate Hole, Matteke Huntzler, Laurelle Weigl, all of whom would be fifth-year players at Simon Fraser were it not for the change: four of the best players in Canada, who, if they want to use their fifth and final year, must transfer to other CIS schools. Any other team there that takes them would be thrilled for it makes them immediately better out of that great recruiting class--assuming none of them sit out, as should be the case, but who knows. Would any of the four be up for heading eastward to, say, Waterloo, since these are west coast recruits (though Huntzler is from Ontario so she may be up for it)? Coach Bruce Langford has the unique position of won't having to face them as opponents while losing them completely--one of those rare and bizarre situations of transferring elsewhere won't ultimately hurt the program that you're leaving.

To be continued (like about how the CIS is not thrilled and the need for fuller athletic scholarships grows)...

[Durbansandshark]

Three other schools get their previews after the two batches: Saskatchewan Huskies (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/10/athletic-backcourt-propels-huskies.html), Fraser Valley Cascades (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/10/exciting-young-cascades-should-push-for.html), and the RMC Paladins (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2009/10/veteran-looks-to-improve-paladins.html)

Not exactly Canadian college basketball. But this excellent piece deals with the struggles of national recognition and funding REDA (transitioning from NEDA) "prep school" gets while producing and improving the quality of elite level Canadian prospective college basketball talent for the US.
www.slamonline.com/online/college-hs/highschool/2009/10/the-resurrection/

[N B Net]

Thanks for posting that article. It's a shame the NEDA folded...just look at how well the two junior teams did this past year...direct result from NEDA.

[Durbansandshark]

Preseason time in the Canadian college basketball scene. The CIS men's defending champs the Carleton Ravens won the 20th Annual House-Laughton Hoops Classic crown with 97-79 victory over the Saskatchewan Huskies. (also, check out the new look CIS website as you read about it)
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091018-772#

Saskatchewan Huskies beat over Laval, Calgary, and Western Ontario to win the Darcel Wright Memorial Classic over in the women's game.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20091018-221#

I hope to oodles of more Canadian college basketball videos from YouTube soon.

[Durbansandshark]

CIS 2009-10 basketball season has just kicked off and, here at Ozhoops, I'll happily conduct this for another season. Interestingly enough, the Olympic torch is going throughout Canada during the start of CIS ball!

[Durbansandshark]

Yes, the CIS kicked their 2009-10 season. And a little early too. With this being an Olympic year in Vancouver, BC, I wonder how the Winter Olympics will impact the playing plans for the UBC Thunderbirds and Simon Fraser Clan? University of British Columbia will likely get affected more so because one of their facilities will get utilized for the WOG as a venue (and the accompanying air-tight security that goes with it). This past week, several CIS teams played against additional NCAA opponents.

We got our first Top Ten rankings for the season last Tuesday. And both defending champs from last season in the men's and women's games, Carleton and Simon Fraser, respectively, are atop the CIS rankings (http://english.cis-sic.ca/top_10_releases/2009-10/20091103-top10-10). I'm a little surprised to see Wifried Laurier and McMaster in the rankings. Maybe that's because the other OUA teams not named Carleton are in a down year. Toronto, I'm not surprised. Women's is almost the same result like with the Final 8.

Simon Fraser men start their season out in the CanadaWest with a win over the Victoria Vikes in late October to quell a Vikes rally 78-75.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091031-29211

National runnerup UBC start theirs a day earlier against Trinity Western and blasted the Spartans 71-44 out of the War Memorial Gym
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091030-33221

A more inexperienced Carleton Ravens nearly had their 30-game CIS winning streak coming into the season halted by the Guelph Gryphons but survive on the road in Guelph.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091106-9372

Defending women's champs Simon Fraser, in their final season in the CIS, keep their streak alive at 35 with their own win over Victoria.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20091031-21213

And then demolish Trinity Western by 60
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20091106-20255

Calgary and Winnipeg women's teams split the weekend series against each other
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20091031-4473
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20091030-0221

[Durbansandshark]

Sorry for the lack of updates for the past few weeks. I was busy and had to take care of some things pertaining to school and work. CIS basketball is entering a winter exam break for the rest of 2009. That'll give me time to catch up in the next few days.

A recent roundup involving the Ontario University Athletics men's basketball, culminated by a younger and more inexperienced Carleton Ravens, the defending CIS champs, had their 36-game winning streak ended by the Lakehead Thunderwolves, a team known for its fourth quarter dramatics. But the Thunderwolves themselves, atop the OUA standings mostly tied with the Ravens until, got quickly knocked off that undefeated perch 24 hours later by Carleton's city rivals Ottawa.

Simon Fraser's winning streak is still alive with the women rolling to its 42nd straight victory to stay #1 with a demolishing over the Calgary Dinos 110-78, going 7-0 with Calgary down to 6-4 in CanadaWest.

Don't look now but the Windsor Lancers women got a little undefeated streak of their own to start the season at 6-0, most recent victim the Queen's Gaels.

Look for a whole lot more next week

[Cram]

This doesnt have much to do with anything, but was at a party in Calgary the other day and met a guy who played Canadian College Ball about 5-6 years prior. He was about 6'5 and 190 and played centre, which shows the difference between it and NCAA. He also said they'd played against some Div 2 school at some point and been destroyed. Cant remember which college it was, but it was in Vancouver (wasnt UBC).

[Durbansandshark]

My guess would be Simon Fraser, Cram.

Carleton star and All-Canadian Stu Turnbull now plays for Germany's SC Rist Wedel

[Durbansandshark]

The express version of the CIS basketball updates in Canada

Right now after many weeks at the top spot for almost two years, defending champs Carleton Ravens got knocked off when the voters of the CIS basketball rankings gave the majority votes for the Number 1 spot to CIS runnerup UBC because of the Carleton loss to Lakehead in November.

When the Thunderbirds were ranked #2 though late last month, they surpassed the hapless Manitoba Bisons in Winnipeg highlighted by Kyle Watson's perfect first half and their typical stingy defense.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091128-0392

#10 Simon Fraser gives #4 Calgary Dinos their second loss in the season with a late run to beat them, despite losing Stuart Kuzaminski for the second straight game.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091128-33432

Details on then #1 Carleton winning over OUA rival McMaster 83-74 on the road in Hamilton with its more inexperienced team.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091128-4453

The Ontario University Athletics men's basketball roundup featuring that Lakehead Thunderwolves upset loss to Ottawa but not before their upset win over Carleton. It was a mixed weekend for the Toronto schools with the Varsity Blues winning over Western Ontario, a team in transition, but York and Ryerson falling short. Laurier blasts away Laurentian.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091127-02111

Belated congratulations to St. Francis Xavier coaching legend Steve Konchalski for reaching 735 wins, a national CIS record. Everything to celebrate that on November 27 was all about the 735 (he surpassed Brandon's Jerry Hemmings, the previous record holder). He shows no signs of slowing down; just you wait until he reaches 800 like a few in the NCAA have south of the border!
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091123-02011

Trinity Western Spartans get a big win over Victoria. Rebounds galore.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091121-0392

When Carleton was undefeated before meeting Lakehead, they knocked off the Waterloo Warriors on their last home game of 2009. But so was Lakehead at the time. Also, Windsor destroys RMC. Ottawa, Toronto, Western Ontario, Brock, and Ryerson were also winners that weekend.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091122-8299

Then #3 Calgary, led by Ross Bekkering, edges Saskatchewan Huskies
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091121-2712

More on Carleton knocking off Waterloo
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091121-6357

Actually, Carleton DID win over Guelph, not lose to the Gryphons. Just beating them.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091106-9372

#1 Simon Fraser is still sitting at 42 straight wins before the winter break in the women's game. I told you about the demolishing. Now read about it.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091128-4555

What a way to close out the 2009 portion of the CIS women's basketball season: two rival CanadaWest school based in the prairie provinces battling it out, but it still seems to be no resolution in sight between the #4 Saskatchewan Huskies and the #9 Alberta Pandas as they split the weekend series in Edmonton.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20091128-23318

High octane scoring ruled when Trinity Western lost to Calgary
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20091127-0921

[Durbansandshark]

Carleton Ravens women's basketball team is currently among the hottest teams in the nation with a four game winning streak to end their 2009 portion of the season. The latest victim was McMaster Mauraders 71-63 on the road in Hamilton.

[Durbansandshark]

The 2010 portion of the CIS basketball is already underway with some winter break exhibition tournaments along the way.

To whet your appetite when the real jumpstart of this post, I'll give you one result to report. The #1-ranked and undefeated UBC Thunderbirds fly high with great colo(u)rs to start 2010 over the 4-5 Regina Cougars 97-70 at Vancouver UBC'S War Memorial Gym.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100108-0028

[Durbansandshark]

Sorry for the delay in some things: I'm just now coming back into this with the combination of more work hours at my job and of my obsession with the Vancouver Winter Olympics taking up my time (I also write posts at www.gamesbids.com using the same post moniker), which is why I haven't been writing here much in the new year so far.

CIS Conference tournaments are fast approaching up in Canada, but there's still that thing called the 2010 portion of the season here with the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics dominating the Canadian sports headlines right now. Another team fell from the ranks of the unbeaten lately. And the Simon Fraser women from nearby Langley, British Columbia keep on winning. They're like UCONN here in the US right now. More to come hopefully next week.

[Durbansandshark]

I might do some CIS basketball stuff leading up to Ottawa tomorrow. But I won't go into it much until next week, when I have more time.

Conference tourneys are wrapping up there just like it is south of the border leading up to the big national one. History was made in the CanadaWest Conference when the Saskatchewan Huskies won their first men's conference title for the first time ever over the weekend by defeating Calgary following a thrilling upset OT win over former #1 British Columbia.
http://www.thestarphoenix.com/sports/Huskies+make+history+basketball+Canwest+title+firs t+time/2653633/story.html

..and the Huskies women are going to the Final 8 Nationals too with a CanadaWest bronze medal performance in pursuit of the Bronze Baby in Hamilton.
http://www.thestarphoenix.com/sports/Bronze+medal+pure+gold+Huskies/2653641/story.html

In their final season in the CIS prior to moving to NCAA D2, the #1 Simon Fraser Clan, the defending champs, keep on winning by winning the CanadaWest women's tournament title on their home court in Langley, BC to make their 9th consecutive Final 8 appearance under coach Bruce Langford. Robyn Buna, 2010 CanadaWest Player of the Year, was perfect in her final game at her home gym--7 for 7 from the field and 4 for 4 in free throws to go for a game high 20 points in 30-point margin no contest over #4 Regina Cougars 92-62.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_w/news/web_cwchamps/

[Durbansandshark]

March Madness Canadian-style heats up this weekend with the following Final 8 teams in both the men and women:

WOMEN (in Hamilton, Ontario)
1. Simon Fraser Clan (CanadaWest champs)
2. Windsor Lancers (OUA champs)
3. Saskatchewan Huskies (CanadaWest bronze medalists)
4. Regina Cougars (CanadaWest runnersup)
5. Laval Rouge D'Or (QSSF champs)
6. Cape Breton Capers (Atlantic University Conference champs)
7. Ottawa Gees Gees (OUA runnersup)
8. McMaster Mauraders (hosts)

As a reminder, CanadaWest has dominated the Bronze Baby for about 20 years since the Laurentian Voyaguers, the last non-CanadaWest/Great Plains team to win, won back-to-back title in 1990 and 1991. Don't expect anything different, especially with Simon Fraser acting like a machine and want to go out of the CIS with a bang before heading to NCAA D2.

http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/index

Interesting that the Final 8 is going on with the province of Ontario being the capital of Canadian college basketball for both. The men's will take place in Ottawa next weekend before returning to Halifax next year. #1-ranked Carleton Ravens will like to go out winners too again on their home floor. As winners of the OUA East title, their next opponent is the Windsor Lancers, the OUA West champs. The tournament is presented by Investors Group.

[Durbansandshark]

The Men's CIS Final 8 field in Ottawa to be held this weekend:

1. Carleton Ravens (OUA champs, host)
2. Cape Breton Capers (Atlantic champs)
3. UBC Thunderbirds (wildcard)
4. Windsor Lancers (OUA runnerup)
5. Saskatchewan Huskies (Canada West champs)
6. Lakehead Thunderwolves (OUA bronze medalists)
7. Calgary Dinos (Canada West runnerup)
8. UQAM Citadins (QSSF champs)

Mar 14, 2010

2010 CIS championship: Carleton seeded No. 1, UBC earns wildcard

OTTAWA (CIS) – The defending national champion and tournament host Carleton University Ravens are the top-ranked team heading into this week’s CIS men’s basketball Final 8.

Championship website: http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb

The seedings were announced Sunday night for the 2010 CIS tourney set to get underway on Friday at Scotiabank Place in Ottawa. The gold-medal final is scheduled for next Sunday at 6:30 p.m., live on TSN2.

Rounding out the list of participating teams are the No. 2 Cape Breton Capers (AUS champions), No. 3 UBC Thunderbirds (Canada West bronze medallists), No. 4 Windsor Lancers (OUA finalists), No. 5 Saskatchewan Huskies (Canada West champions), No. 6 Lakehead Thunderwolves (OUA bronze medallists), No. 7 Calgary Dinos (Canada West finalists), and No. 8 UQAM Citadins (QSSF champions).

UBC received the wildcard entry following a vote by a committee of CIS coaches. The Thunderbirds were ranked either first or second all season in the weekly national coaches’ poll and had only one loss in conference play before being upset by Saskatchewan in the Canada West semifinals.

The OUA champions Ravens, who have captured six of the past seven W.P. McGee trophies as CIS monarchs, begin their title defence against UQAM Friday at 8 p.m. (TSN2), in the last quarter-final duel.

The other first-round match-ups pit Cape Breton against Calgary at 12:30 p.m., UBC against Lakehead at 2:30 p.m., and Windsor against Saskatchewan at 6 p.m. (TSN2).

The CIS all-Canadians and major award winners will be unveiled at a reception on Thursday evening.

Note: A complete championship preview will follow on Tuesday.

SEEDINGS

1. Carleton Ravens (OUA champions: 20-2 regular season / 3-0 playoffs)
2. Cape Breton Capers (AUS champions: 18-2 regular season / 2-0 playoffs)
3. UBC Thunderbirds (Wildcard: 17-1 regular season / 3-1 playoffs)
4. Windsor Lancers (OUA finalists: 17-5 regular season / 2-1 playoffs)
5. Saskatchewan Huskies (CWUAA champions: 14-6 regular season / 4-0 playoffs)
6. Lakehead Thunderwolves (OUA bronze medallists: 17-5 regular season / 2-1 playoffs)
7. Calgary Dinos (CWUAA finalists: 15-5 regular season / 3-1 playoffs)
8. UQAM Citadins (QSSF champions: 11-5 regular season / 2-0 playoffs)

CHAMPIONSHIP SCHEDULE

Thursday, March 18

19:30 All-Canadian Awards Reception (Marriott Hotel – Victoria Room)

Friday, March 19

12:30 Quarter-final #1: No. 2 Cape Breton vs. No. 7 Calgary (SSN Canada)
14:30 Quarter-final #2: No. 3 UBC vs. No. 6 Lakehead (SSN Canada)
18:00 Quarter-final #3: No. 4 Windsor vs. No. 5 Saskatchewan (TSN2)
20:00 Quarter-final #4: No. 1 Carleton vs. No. 8 UQAM (TSN2)

Saturday, March 20

11:30 Consolation #1: Loser QF #1 vs. Loser QF #2 (SSN Canada)
13:30 Consolation #2: Loser QF #3 vs. Loser QF #4 (SSN Canada)
17:00 Semifinal #1: Winner QF #1 vs. Winner QF #2 (TSN2)
19:00 Semifinal #2: Winner QF #3 vs. Winner QF #4 (TSN2)

Sunday, March 21

16:00 Consolation final (5th place) (SSN Canada)
18:30 Championship final (TSN2)

As is custom with me on this, both the women's and men's review of their respective Final 8s will come following the men's the week after at least (along with a few other this in CIS basketball).

March Madness Canadian-style is in full effect! :)

[Durbansandshark]

CIS basketball season 2009-2010 is now over in Canada. We've witnessed history in the Final 8 weekends, first in the women and then in the men, in the province of Ontario in Hamilton and Ottawa, respectively. We come into this to see if Simon Fraser and Carleton will repeat as champs of Canada.

I'll start with the men's Final 8 in Ottawa, in its final year there at the ScotiaBank Place before returning to Halifax, since this one was the most recent of the two. Carleton University, the host school of the CIS Final 8 for the three years, looked to repeat as holders of the W.P. McGee Trophy; they hoped to keep the trophy for all of the three years it has hosted the Final 8 and extend the Ravens dynasty. Hasn't happened that way. Especially in the beginning. It aimed for two out of three. Though the Ravens are ranked #1 nationally in Canada, there was a worry that, with the likes of All-Canadians Stu Turnbull and Aaron Doornenkamp gone, the relatively young and inexperienced team did prompt some concerns, like when facing more senior-laden teams, and of their developing leadership. Carleton coach Dave Smart clearly is among the best coaches in all of Canada anywhere, but does he have enough tricks and ways to turn to when adversity strikes in the Ravens disfavo(u)r. So though Carleton had only 2 losses to their season as OUA champs of the Wilson Trophy (again) coming back into Ottawa, a team like UBC go be looking for revenge, an emerging powerhouse like Saskatchewan or Cape Breton, or an unheralded squad looking to make a mark like a team south of the border. Furthermore, because there are more fresh faces this time, it seemed the field for the CIS Final 8 looked more wide open as there has been a different #1 even with Carleton being such the majority of the time this season.

More from the official CIS Final 8 2010 preview with an outlook of each of the eight teams. OUA is nicely represented.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100316-preview

Now to the Final 8 games themselves:

Under the leadership of fifth-year senior Robbie Shihota, Calgary Dinos upset the #2 Cape Breton Capers. Better logo for them too. People were anticipating a Carleton/Cape Breton (or UBC in a rematch) in the W.P. McGee Championship. Not gonna happen.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100319-qtr1

Last year's runner-up and #3 British Columbia Thunderbirds runs a 21-0 run to halt Lakehead Thunderwolves, its first appearance in a CIS basketball championship since 1977, in The Thunder Bowl.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100319-qtr2

In the game of the quarterfinals, CanadaWest champs Saskatchewan survive a scare from the OUA Finalist Windsor Lancers to win by three, despite their inability to shoot well in the second half, even down by 17 then. But defensively they were sound all around. Huskie Showron Glover from Fresno, California and CIS men's leading scorer produced 16 points.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100319-qtr3

History was made in the final quarterfinal of the night in front of a decidedly pro-Carleton crowd, who know the building well compared to newbie UQAM, the Quebec champs. History was made in the sense that a woman was coaching a men's CIS basketball in the Final 8. UQAM's Olga Hrycak now has that distinction (actually that happened in 2005, but no matter). And that--taking them to Ottawa--should prove once and for all, her coaching qualities are solid. She has helped overseen the development of the UQAM Citadins men's basketball program in the seven years it has been in existence. Not sure why it hadn't gotten more media play nationally up there or here. Nonetheless, the Citadins, though fighting valiantly against the defending champs, their inexperience in playing the really big games came through. Hopefully, Universite Quebec A Montreal (University of Quebec-Montreal in English) can use this to be a power in the QSSF and nationally under Hrycak.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100319-qtr4

UBC shows why they were hungry for the W.P. McGee Trophy this year in another chapter in the Thunderbirds' CanadaWest rivalry with the Calgary Dinos. Back in the CIS championship game for UBC, their seventh.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100320-semi1

Remember that "King is dead!" comment I made from 2008 after Carleton lost in the semis to Acadia in their own backyard? It shockingly happened again. Seems like Carleton and Ottawa Final 8 don't really mix all that well and live dangerously in the semis, when they tried to get their seventh CIS banner in eight years. Last season, it took a Stu Turnbull buzzer beater in that great semifinal game against Western Ontario to get into the championship and then the title. This time, a CanadaWest team named Saskatchewan stopped them in a close one, ensuring an all-CanadaWest championship game and a first-ever trip there for the Huskies 86-82. Ottawa's own Kevin McClearly, Who Saskatchewan did not double team, netted 20 points and 8 rebounds in his final CIS game for the Ravens. It can't win it all to end the Final 8's run in Ottawa.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100320-semi2

Consolation game #1: #2-seed Atlantic champs Cape Breton rebounds from a disappointing loss to Calgary in the quarterfinals to win over winless (in the CIS Final 8 that is) Lakehead.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100320-cons1

Consolation game #2: But all was not completely loss for the OUA with Windsor winning over UQAM.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100320-cons2

5th Place game: Despite Cape Breton letting Windsor come back from a 17-point margin, the Capers edged the #4 Lancers 95-92. Both teams hit 15 times from behind the arc.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100321-5th

Neither Saskatchewan nor British Columbia met before in the W.P. McGee Trophy Final 8 Championship game. However, with Saskatchewan's upset win over the defending champs Carleton the night before, the title was ensured that it would go over to the CanadWest Conference, something that had not happened since the Alberta Golden Bears claimed it back in 2002, before the Carleton juggernaut took hold. Canadian basketball followers feel that the Huskies should have gotten a higher seed. Nonetheless, Saskatchewan beat the Thunderbirds in the CanadWest tournament finals 104-87 in overtime. They did it again in their fifth trip to the CIS championship and won their first ever W.P. McGee Trophy 91-81 eight days after the Huskies' first Canada West title. The 172 points were the most in a CIS championship game since 1985's title game of Victoria and Waterloo 93-79 with the Vikes winning that. Showron Glover was Saskatchewan's player of the tournament with 28 points and 10 points and fifth-year senior Troy Gottselig had 22 points and grabbed 8 boards in his final game as the tournament MVP, the Jack Donahue Trophy.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100321-final

[Durbansandshark]

On the previous weekend further south of the Ontario province in Hamilton, the women's Final 8, the Bronze Baby. Could the Simon Fraser Clan do it and leave the CIS as a winner before heading to the NCAA Division 2? Just so you know, the Clan had their winning streak stopped on the road by Victoria on February 13. By extension, Canada West continue the dominance?

Bronze Baby 2010 preview. Almost everybody's back from last year's field except for hosts McMaster, back after a one-year absence
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20100309-preview

Super French freshman for Windsor, Jessica Clemencon, bails out the Lancers with 21 points to lead her #2 seed team to victory and a semifinal berth over the Gee Gees
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20100312-qtr1

Saskatchewan Huskies go further than the school has ever been in CIS Final 8 basketball with a win over Cape Breton
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20100312-qtr2

Number one in the nation and still number #1 in the CIS field, Robyn Buna and the SFU Clan show why they were the team to beat in Canada with a convincing win over hosts McMaster.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20100312-qtr3

Quebec champs Laval Rouge D'Or led throughout the first half in the last quarterfinal. But the Regina Cougars, national runnerup from a season ago, put together two second half rallies to take over and win in their second meeting in three years for both teams at the nationals.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20100312-qtr4

Consolation Semi #1: Late comeback helps Cape Breton over the Ottawa Gee Gees
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20100313-conso1

Consolation Semi #2: With the inside duo of All-Canadian Marie-Michelle Genois and Quebec rookie of the year Marie-Pascal Nadeau, Laval restores some pride in the Final 8 to the consolation 5th place final by defeating McMaster at the Burridge Gymnasium. The Rouge Et Or outrebounded the Maruaders 60-27. Teammate and fellow All-Canadian Chantal St. Armour had 12 points
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20100313-conso2

Windsor Lancers defeat their former teammate and all-Canadian Lindsay DeGroot, in spite of her double double, and her Saskatchewan players to go into their first ever Bronze Baby championship game. The second consecutive year Windsor shatters the Huskies championship dreams. Clemencon, Windsor native Bojana Kovacevic, and Iva Peklova from Prague in the Czech Republic all scored in double figures.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20100313-semi1

Simon Fraser and Regina meet again in the nationals. Only this time it's not the championship game. But the result was the same as last year's but the victory margin got bigger.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20100313-semi2

Three-time All-Canadian from Cape Breton Kelsey Hodgson help the Capers make fools out of Laval with her 37-point performance to give Cape Breton fifth place. This was the second consecutive fifth-place meeting for both teams.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20100314-5th

An all-Saskatchewan battle for third place and bronze. Also an all-Canada West one. Lindsay DeGroot ends her CIS career with a bronze medal over Regina to give Saskatchewan its best ever CIS women's basketball placing.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20100314-bronze

Early on the championship game between Simon Fraser and Windsor was close, but the Clan's experience and size matchup favo(u)ring them was too much for the Lancers when the defending champs pulled away, starting with a 20-3 run, to back-to-back Bronze Babies and their fifth title all time. For Canada West, its their 19th straight title for the Bronze Baby. With SFU becoming the first back-to-back women's champs since Manitoba in 1996 and 1997. Matteke Huntzler, Lisa Tindle, Brea McLaughlin, Laurelle Weigl, Kate Hole, Kelsey Horsting, and CIS Player of the Year and Tournament MVP Robyn Buna all are now three-time champs. Scoring was balanced for the the Clan and backdoor cuts was executed well. Buna ends her CIS basketball career with 17 points to lead her team plus two assists and a steal. Windsor, meanwhile, was the first Ontario team to make it to the championship since York did in 1997 losing to Manitoba in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The last OUA team to win it was Laurentian in 1991. Lancers missed a couple of layups and Iva Peklova and Shavoun Reaney got into foul trouble. Clemencon was named to the all-tournament team, the only Lancer to accomplish that. So SFU leaves CIS basketball to the NCAA they way they wanted to as champs!
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20100314-final

Congrats to both Saskatchewan and Simon Fraser and to the Canada West Conference for its double CIS champs season! :)

[Durbansandshark]

CIS college basketball. It's nowhere near as big time as it is south of the border with the NCAA in terms of persistent national coverage and schools. Thus not in demand. The home venues aren't as big in terms of capacity (10,000 at least) and only on campuses, let alone playing at the ScotiaBank Place and the Halifax Metro Centre. But storylines played out on the court are just as compelling. The courts are intimate and resemble like that of large high school gymnasiums, local rec centers, or those in smaller NCAA schools in D2 and D3. No video games yet for the schools to earn the mucho bucks with. When they play for the national and conference titles, there's not a lot in the way of decorations at the facilities they play in. So it's kinda like

Time now for the video recaps of the CIS FINAL 8s from this just-completed season. Women first (mostly from Hamilton's McMaster's Cable 14 and SSN Canada).

Quarterfinal #1 Ottawa Gee Gees vs. Windsor Lancers:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=34Ui4mcd9Wg
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANcKGqHc8o0

Quarterfinal #2 Cape Breton Capers vs. Saskatchewan Huskies:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=2R4yxAono7I
www.youtube.com/watch?v=oaOPBHicFFg

Quarterfinal #3 Simon Fraser Clan vs. McMaster Mauraders:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=USq3LBHb618
www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_5QQIpoYuA
www.youtube.com/watch?v=WyalnJgPMrk

Quarterfinal #4 Regina Cougars vs. Laval Rouge Et Or:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=upgUQkh0dl8
www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pU8vUYwEpo

Semifinal #1 Windsor vs. Saskatchewan:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fd757FyOxqg
www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9Zu2JPdi-U

Semifinal #2 Simon Fraser vs. Regina:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqjmSCv0uQU
www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXYiLWrOrko
www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcqNjjkkjjc

CIS Bronze Medal Game Saskatchewan vs. Regina:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=X45H2OuLI68

Bronze Baby CIS Championship: Simon Fraser vs. Windsor:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeXufSNbLKg
www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHceLv8rHrs (features TSN footage)

Postgame:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dn7_dmVaO-E
www.youtube.com/watch?v=SP2B1Qci1Dw
www.youtube.com/watch?v=vECdcoGYvlA

[Durbansandshark]

Couldn't find any YouTube clips dealing with the whole Final 8. Maybe they'll turn up in a short time. But there are videos pertaining to the Saskatchewan Huskies' W.P. McGee Trophy quest with a catchphrase.

Final seconds of the 2010 CIS Men's Title game videotaped by a fan (also you'll notice the ScotiaBank Place is not packed for this. Way below capacity. If Carleton and/or Ottawa were there in the final, that'll be different):
www.youtube.com/watch?v=KCVdB2CGPnM
www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRWDNB9qQgQ (TSN Sportscentre's Top 10 Plays, Showron Glover at 3:14)

Postgame following their title win over University of British Columbia in Ottawa:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=-9BWsIo9jPA

Huskies' triumphant homecoming (some with game footage):
www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqFpMcSaPsw (CBC Saskatoon)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbQcccSNFl4 (Global TV Saskatoon, extensive than many)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3EGQNJC1Yc (CTV Saskatoon)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlv3TkXo350 (interview on CTV Saskatoon with Troy Gottsellig and Michael Linklater)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wc6mPoKhaQ4 (another CTV Saskatoon report)

Seniors Gottselig (CIS tournament MVP) and Linklater are now playing for the IBL's Edmonton Energy

[Durbansandshark]

For those wondering and wanting to know more about the prospective Canada West Conference members that want to join soon to replace NCAA-bound Simon Fraser and how their respective seasons fared. Visit their weblinks:

UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA TIMBERWOLVES
Men:
www.unbc.ca/nationals/unbc_timberwolves_season_in_review.html (season in review)
www.unbc.ca/athletics/teams/basketball/index.html (men's basketball home page)
www.unbc.ca/athletics/teams/basketball/men/index.html (roster)
www.unbc.ca/athletics/teams/basketball/basketball_coaching.html (coach)
www.unbc.ca/athletics/teams/basketball/basketball_schedule.html (schedule and results)
Women:
www.unbc.ca/athletics/teams/basketball/women.html (home)
www.unbc.ca/athletics/teams/basketball/womens_schedule.html (schedule and results)
www.unbc.ca/athletics/teams/basketball/women/index.html (roster)
www.unbc.ca/athletics/teams/basketball/womens_coaching.html (coach)

VANCOUVER ISLAND UNIVERSITY MARINERS
Men:
www.viu.ca/mariners/basketball/mbasketball.htm (home)
www.viu.ca/mariners/basketball/MSCHED.HTM (schedule)
www.viu.ca/mariners/basketball/MROSTER.HTM (roster)
www.viu.ca/mariners/basketball/MCOACH.HTM (coaching staff)
Women:
www.viu.ca/mariners/basketball/wbasketball.htm (home)
www.viu.ca/mariners/basketball/WSCHED.HTM (schedule)
www.viu.ca/mariners/basketball/WROSTER.HTM (roster)
www.viu.ca/mariners/basketball/WCOACH.HTM (coaching staff)

CAPILANO UNIVERSITY BLUES
Men:
www.capilanou.ca/services/campus-activities/athletics/teams/men-basketball.html (home)
www.capilanou.ca/services/campus-activities/athletics/teams/men-basketball/mbbpre.html (season preview)
www.capilanou.ca/services/campus-activities/athletics/teams/men-basketball/mbbroster0910.html (roster)
www.capilanou.ca/services/campus-activities/athletics/teams/men-basketball/MBBcoaches0910.html (coaches)
www.capilanou.ca/services/campus-activities/athletics/teams/men-basketball/mbbscdedule0910.html (schedule and results)
Women:
www.capilanou.ca/services/campus-activities/athletics/teams/women-basketball.html (home)
www.capilanou.ca/services/campus-activities/athletics/teams/women-basketball/Season-Preview-2009.html (preview)
www.capilanou.ca/services/campus-activities/athletics/teams/women-basketball/wbbroster0910.html (roster)
www.capilanou.ca/services/campus-activities/athletics/teams/women-basketball/schedule.html (schedule & results)
www.capilanou.ca/services/campus-activities/athletics/teams/women-basketball/wbbcoaches0910.html (coach)

UBC-OKANAGAN HEAT
Men:
http://web.ubc.ca/okanagan/athletics/mensbasketball.html
Women:
http://web.ubc.ca/okanagan/athletics/womensbasketball.html

MOUNT ROYAL UNIVERSITY COUGARS
Men:
www.mtroyal.ca/CampusServices/AthleticsRecreation/Athletics/ChooseaTeam/coug_mbasketball.htm (home)
www.mtroyal.ca/Cougars/playersdisplay.php?team_id=1 (roster)
www.mtroyal.ca/Cougars/scheduledisplay.php?team_id=1 (schedule)
www.mtroyal.ca/Cougars/staffdisplay.php?team_id=1 (team staff)
Women:
www.mtroyal.ca/CampusServices/AthleticsRecreation/Athletics/ChooseaTeam/coug_wbasketball.htm (home)
www.mtroyal.ca/Cougars/playersdisplay.php?team_id=5 (roster)
www.mtroyal.ca/Cougars/scheduledisplay.php?team_id=5 (schedule and results)
www.mtroyal.ca/Cougars/staffdisplay.php?team_id=5 (team staff)

[Durbansandshark]

On the eve of his and his team's bid losing to Saskatchewan in Ottawa for the CIS championship, British Columbia guard Josh Whyte wins the Mike Moser Memorial CIS Player of the Year Award. The Calgary native becomes the fourth UBC recipient to win it since its inception following the likes of Kyle Russell and J.D. Jackson. Cape Breton's Phillip Nkrumah wins the Defensive Player of the Year. The Dr. Peter Mullins Trophy for rookie of the year went to the Brocke Badgers' Clinton Springer-Williams, making it back-to-back for Brock with Didi Mukendi winning it last year. UBC gets more accolades with four-time Canada West Coach of the Year winner Kevin Hanson awarded the Stuart Aberdeen Memorial Trophy, joining Bruce Enns as the Thunderbirds' only winners of that award and Hansen won it three occasions. Dalhousie Tigers' Kevin Sullivan earns the Ken Shields Award for Outstanding Student-Athlete and Community Service.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100318-awards

2009-10 ALL-CANADIAN FIRST TEAM

G Josh Whyte, University of British Columbia
G Josh Gibson-Bascombe, Ottawa
PG Christian Upshaw, St. Francis Xavier
G Showron Glover, Saskatchewan
F Keenan Jepperssen, McMaster

2009-10 ALL-CANADIAN SECOND TEAM

F Kevin McClearly, Carleton
F Ross Bekkering, Calgary
G Matthew Thornhill, McGill
G Joel Hayward, Saint Mary's
F Andrew Wedemire, Western Ontario

2009-10 ALL-CANADIAN ROOKIE TEAM

G/F Clinton Springer-Williams, Brock
G Jordan Baker, Alberta
F Owen Klassen, Acadia
PG Olivier Bouchard, McGill
G Emanuel Pasquale, Laurentian

Mike Raimbault tackles the Winnipeg Wesmen's basketball coaching job fresh from UNBC.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100420-901

Kerby Court is gone as the Trinity Western Spartans women's coach with Cheryl Jean-Paul
taking charge in the former's place
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2009-10/releases/20100416-029

[Durbansandshark]

Some more CIS coaching changes took place since I last wrote here almost a month ago.

Dave DeAveiro, OUA East Coach of the Year, leaves the Ottawa Gee Gees after nine seasons to take over the head coaching position for the McGill Redmen vacated by Craig Norman, whose contract was not renewed by the Montreal university after six disappointing seasons with a 64-122 record there with no CIS or QSSF championships under his name. By contrast, DeAveiro has led Ottawa to the OUA semis with the last two seasons there having a OUA Bronze.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100507-361
www.mcgill.ca/athletics/newsroom/spotlight/item/?item_id=115324

Amos Connelly is now the new head coach at Hamilton's McMaster University.
www.athrec.mcmaster.ca/athletics/teams/basketball/mball_news/2010/connolly-announcement-may25.htm

Scott Clark, an assistant from outgoing CanadaWest and CIS member Simon Fraser, gets a chance to be a head coach at a young CIS basketball program with the Thompson Rivers Wolfpack and hopes to turn the team around with making a "culture of hard work" as an important component from interim coach (for two years) Thom Gillespie.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100525-083

For 22 years Angela Orton was the head coach of the Guelph Gryphons women's basketball team and one of the premier coaches in the OUA women's basketball scene. Now she's taking a 12-month sabbatical from that to reassess her professional endeavors within the Athletics Department. For now, Tom O'Brien will look after the young women during the upcoming season.
www.athletics.uoguelph.ca/Varsity_Sport/_Teams/Basketball_-_Women/News/2602

[Durbansandshark]

Happy Canada Day! :)

Defending champs Saskatchewan Huskies coach Greg Jockims and his green blazer on the sidelines is taking a professional leave of absence, something that just isn't really done south of the border with the NCAA D1 level and is exercised for all the Huskies head coaches. He'll perhaps write a book about that season. So Barry Rawlyk will act as steward of the team as they defend their CIS title and that from Canada West.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100526-801

With Dave DeAveiro transfering his success to McGill, the Gee Gees found their new man by nabbing an old face in James Derouin, an Ottawa native who played for the Gee Gees a decade ago.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/06152010-554

Also, Brock Badgers, the 2007-08 CIS Final 8 champs, announced the retirement of the legendary Ken Murray after 20 years at the helm. Taking over from him at least on an interim basis is assistant coach Brad Rootes, a member of the championship squad. At 25, Rootes is the youngest men's basketball university head coach in Canada...and younger than even Dana Fife at IPFW in the NCAA.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100616-012

Actually, there will be some CIS-NCAA clashes this year after all with a few Labor Day ones. Victoria Vikings will clash with the Kentucky Wildcats, Minnesota Golden Gophers will face the UBC Thunderbirds and Victoria (with Tubby Smith's team bringing Canadians Devoe Joseph and Maurice Walker in tow who were Canadian junior team members) in a three-game Pacific Northwest swing, Kentucky will also duke it out with the OUA's Western Ontario and Windsor.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100614-562
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100622-662
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100622-772
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100622-76
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/20100609-231


Plus, the Battle of the Border returns after a one-year hiatus in August at Calgary's Jack Simpson Gym with the Calgary Dinos hosting the Northern Arizona Lumberjacks from the NCAA's Big Sky Conference, QSSF's Concordia Stingers, and fellow CanadaWest member Lethbridge Pronghorns.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100622-76

[Durbansandshark]

For the first time ever on these boards, we got the 2010-2011 CIS schedule for the men's regular season (http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/schedule) as part of the CIS fall sports schedule from October 22 to February 26 that ends with the Quebec schools fighting each other (unlike the NCAA which considers basketball as a winter sport). October 22 starts the Saskatchewan Huskies defense of their national Final 8 title for a weekend national rematch series in Vancouver at UBC's War Memorial Gym against the Thunderbirds. CIS basketball winter break goes from December 5 to January 4. The women's 2010-11 season schedule has yet to be uploaded but will be very soon. But I can tell you mates here that the women's Final 8 CIS championship 2011 on the weekend of March 25-27 will be held on the campus of national runnersup the Windsor University Lancers, who hope to go one better on their home floor this time around.

Don't worry about Simon Fraser since they're now in NCAA D2 basketball in the Great Northwest Conference; I'll still cover them here on their progress.

I regret that I don't cover more about the Ontario schools outside of the likes of Carleton and Ottawa to a lesser extent, namely the Toronto-area schools in the OUA as well as nearby Hamilton. But there's some interesting developments in the York Lions' men's basketball program. The Lions were eliminated last time they played in the OUA conference tournament and lost to the Carleton Ravens in the OUA quarterfinals 78-65 (www.yorkulions.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/02-27_Ravens_knock_Lions_out) at Carleton's home court on February 26, prompting the end of York coach Bob Bain's tenure before heading into retirement after 37 years. Bain, perhaps motivated by his imminent retirement, propelled his Lions to win the last two regular season games before upsetting their cross-city rivals the Toronto Varsity Blues in the OUA first round on the road.

In April, York announced the promotion of Tom Oliveri (www.yorkulions.ca/sports/mbkb/2009-10/releases/04-12_Oliveri_to_lead), an assistant to Bain for 13 seasons to take charge. So that makes two CIS men's basketball coaches right now with Portuguese heritage (the other being Dave DeAveiro, now at McGill after being in Ottawa). No surprise here, since both come from a city--Toronto--with a massive Portuguese population that is around 200,000. Some say he was the only logical choice to carry on Bain's legacy at York and improve upon that. Meanwhile, York freshmen from London, Ontario Dejan Kravic was named York's freshman of the year in intramural sports. To improve with the hopes of being a OUA power to bring the Toronto gravitas, the York Lions now have recruits like top Canadian prep star PG Travis Turnbull from St. Anne's High from Tucumseh, Ontario (www.yorkulions.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/04-30_Travis_Turnbull), and Slavs Nicholas Tufegzich and Vlad Velici (www.yorkulions.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/06-17_Tufegdzich_and_Velici).

Oliveri's assistant Chris Cheng will coach Team Ontario's U17 boy's team (www.yorkulions.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/06-29_Cheng_Team_Ontario) at the national championships in Winnipeg in August.

As far as the York Lion women were concerned, it was a very tough and rebuilding season going through the growing pains. They were 3-19 with no damn chance to qualify for the OUA playoffs. Freshmen Nadia Qahwash from Kitchener, Ontario did play all 22 games with meaningful playing minutes and was the only York women's player represented in any OUA team mention.

[Durbansandshark]

Going into the American NCAA isn't the only significant change in itself for Simon Fraser, being the first Canadian post-secondary school to do so. The Clan just hired James Blake as their sixth men's head coach (http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_newheadcoach/) in over 45 seasons to replace the resigned Scott Clark, a former assistant to Jay Triano when the latter was coaching the Clan before moving up in 1995 after Triano went to work for the Vancouver Grizzlies. Seems apropro since Blake has NCAA D2 basketball experience to guide the Vancouver school (in suburban Langley, actually) through the rigors of the NCAA terrain. But Blake also knows the CIS culture, having played with Victoria and Brandon, both SFU rivals in CanadaWest. So he's got worlds. For the CIS women's champs now going into the NCAA, Bruce Langford's Clan coaching staff managed to nab Marie-Line Petit, Rebecca Langmeade, Amonda Francis, Chelsea Reist, and Kia Van Laare (http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_w/news/ten_vanlaare/) from New Westminster, British Columbia as its first recruits in the NCAA era. Because of the transition and of the new recruits, it's very doubtful the Simon Fraser women could apply their winning ways in the Great Northwest Athletic to great effect; they're more concerned about just being competitive in their debut season in the GNAC.

After a little delay, the 2010-11 CIS women's basketball schedule is finally uploaded. (http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/schedule)

[Durbansandshark]

One piece of Simon Fraser news that I didn't get to was of the recruitment of Brampton, Ontario's swing guard Peter Boateng (http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_boatengcommits/) starting with the upcoming 2010-11 season.

Furthermore, for the first time ever coming this season, the Great Northwest Athletic Conference will host postseason conference basketball conference tournaments (http://www.gnacsports.com/mbasketball/home.htm) for both men's and women's basketball. Previously, the Great Northwest was one of only two D2 conferences with the PacWest that did not field such to determine its automatic qualifiers to the NCAA tournament. No official word whether Simon Fraser will be eligible if it even finishes among the top eight for the quarterfinal playoff format as it makes its NCAA transition.

SFU's men's and women's basketball 2010-11 schedules are still pending. I'll have them for you as soon as they are available.

Perennial OUA cellar dwellers (and among all of the CIS) Royal Military College Paladins hoped to fight their way to respectability with the women's basketball team bringing aboard James Banbury as the new head coach, taking over from Brad Schurr. The Paladins start their new season on November 5 against CIS runnersup Waterloo.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20100706-221

Kelsey Hodgson, the three-time All-Canadian alltime leading scorer in the history of Cape Breton women's basketball history and star on the Capers' two consecutive Atlantic University conference titles, is taking her post-college basketball act to Portuguese Division 1 basketball club Torres Novas.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20100809-183

Alberta Golden Bear Jordan Baker played on the Canadian National Development Team with his coach Greg Francis acting as an assistant to Leo Rautins playing across Europe facing several national teams.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100719-192

Got some additional CIS-NCAA clash info over in the men's game that since emerged in over a month. Olga Hrycak and her UQAM Citadins, the QSSF champs, will get their turns to face against the NCAA with a game against the Maine Black Bears, and the women pitting against the Manhattan Jaspers and the Maine women coached by alltime Maine scorer Cindy Blodgett. All games are at home at the UQAM Sports Centre. Of the four Montreal area QSSF basketball schools, UQAM and Laval are the French schools (the English ones are McGill and Concordia), so the press release notifying this news is all in French.
http://francais.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100721-982

The headline announcement of the CIS-NCAA preseason clashes comes from the Carleton Ravens announcing they will play against the Cincinnati Bearcats on September 4 at the ScotiaBank Place as part of the CAM-AM Shootout. The Ravens hope to have better fortune in the CAM-AM Shootout with the Bearcats than with the Kansas Jayhawks two years ago (and that game was close).
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100721-556

[Durbansandshark]

Those CIS-NCAA clashes. Where the Canadian schools test their mettle against some of the finest the NCAA D1 has to offer. On with the shows' results:

University of Fraser Valley Cascades get their first-ever victory over a NCAA team with a win over the San Diego Toreros 71-63. In the Canada West Conference, the Cascades under Barnaby Craddock could very well be a team to watch in 2010-11.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100812-811

After that, San Diego head over to Vancouver (specifically, the Vancouver suburb of Richmond) and beat Canada West powerhouse and two-time CIS finalists UBC Thunderbirds, who were shorthanded, 91-83. The key no-shows and depreciated depth, especially from the bench, hurt the Thunderbirds.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100812-221

Over at the Ravens' Nest in Ottawa, CIS powerhouse Carleton lose to New Mexico St. after overcoming early and costly turnovers and enjoying a 15-point margin in the second half. The Aggies outrebounded the Ravens by 10. Toronto's Christian Kabongo enjoyed 14 points for New Mexico St.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100813-018

Calgary Dinos also show they were no match for an NCAA team as they lost out to Northern Arizona from the Big Sky. With no Bekkering brothers, Dino youth served as an excuse in an 80-63 Battle of the Border beating.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100814-776

Regardless of which side of the border you live between Canada and the US and happen to be a college basketball fan--and trust me, there are plenty of Canadian NCAA college basketball fans there, more so than you can imagine, the name Kentucky resonates incredibly well all over. Few can match that with publicity and their top-notch recruiting classes . After all, the Wildcats are no strangers to Canada for they brought over Toronto's Jamaal Magloire to play for them several years ago. Since they got currency, fans from both sides will turn up. This was definitely the case when Jim Calipari brought his Kentucky Wildcats over to Windsor, Ontario to face an exhibition game against the Windsor Lancers at the St. Denis Centre. UK's depth was ultimately oh so supreme to the Lancers' in the second half but the game was "thrilling" nonetheless. BTW, Toronto rap superstar and actor Aubrey "Drake" Graham happens to be a Kentucky fan and is friendly with Calipari.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100815-412

And they did it again in Windsor this time against Western Ontario in front of another near St. Denis Centre sellout crowd. What's so remarkable here is that the Mustangs were only together at the time for only six practices and staying competitive. Yes, the Wildcat fans travel very well.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100817-013

Score another W for UFV. They beat the Idaho St. Bengals in a close one 71-69.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100817-113

The Kentucky-Windsor rematch. This time it overflowed the St. Denis Centre's capacity with 2000 Kentucky fans coming from far and wide turning up in Windsor to see them in their Canadian debut. Oh, there was a third game for UK, and it was even less of a contest than the previous one against Windsor. Games were telecast live on Fox Sports in the US, sop it was a good exposure for CIS ball here stateside.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100823-36

And the NCAA keeps dominating over the CIS in men's basketball exhibition. Maine Black Bears down the Bishop's Gaithers at Bishop's Mitchell Gym.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100824-53

Visiting South Dakota St. Jackrabbits defeat Manitoba Bisons by 30 in Winnipeg. Manitoba failed to display its aggressiveness by not making it to the charity stripe during the game at all!
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100824-47

Montreal's McGill opened its 109th basketball season with the Maine Black Bears. The Black Bears were too good despite McGill's Justin Bibeau's game high of 20 points. It was all downhill for the McGill Redmen after the first quarter. McGill has nine players of experience (three seniors, one junior, and five sophomores) on the team.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100825-37

For the Bison, it was closer. But it still wasn't enough again against South Dakota St.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100827-442

[Durbansandshark]

Carleton falls to Maine like Bishop's and McGill before them.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100828-382

Meanwhile, the women's CIS-NCAA clashes:

The Carleton women, a rising team in the OUA women's game, soundly lose out to the Tennessee-Martin Skyhawks
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20100817-77

Western Ontario's youthful inexperience proved to be the Mustangs' undoing against the IUPUI Jaguars, despite the nice performances from Ontario freshmen Laura Dally and Jenny Vaughan in their debuts. With the young talent Western Ontario has at its disposal, the Mustangs will have their share of moments of mistakes in games during the upcoming CIS season. They will be, though, a team to watch in the OUA.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20100817-762

Though it's in French because of the fact that it's coming from French language UQAM, the Citadins women's basketball team lost out in a very close one at home to the Maine Black Bears, coached by former Maine sharpshooter Cindy Blodgett.
http://francais.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20100818-11

Bishop's soundly lost to Maine later on.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20100820-87

Very interesting new Final 8 format for the women in the road to Windsor, Ontario coming on March 11-12. Only the four conference champs with hosts Windsor will be spared from playing an extra round of sudden death action for qualification. That's because for the first time there will be regionals to determine the final three spots with four teams in each region making up the semis on a Friday and then the Final on Sunday. Format breakdown goes like this to determine the three spots: in the CIS West Regional Canada West finalist will host the Quebec silver medalist, the 4th place OUA finisher, and the CIS wildcard. For the CIS Central, the OUA finalist will host the 3rd place Canada West and Atlantic University winners and the 5th place Canada West team. Out in the CIS East, the Atlantic University runnerup hosts the 3rd and 5th place OUA teams and the 5th place Canada West teams.

17 teams in all after conference tournament play. Looks like a nice format as the CIS basketball game grows by settling on the court instead of just arbitrarily picking teams. Will the men get something like this? I sure hope so soon. Maybe it will be announced soon. My only major complaint is the fact that it could use IMO another Quebec school in the regionals in the place of OUA. But the QSSF isn't that strong basketball wise overall, even compared to the Atlantic.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20100812-cis3

In other CIS women's basketball news, Cape Breton's star Kelsey Hodgson, who led the nation in scoring in her last two years, will play for Portugal's Torres Novas (http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20100809-183), former Lakehead Thunderwolf OUA All-Star Kathryn Verboom gets to sign a contract for Germany's Towers-Speyers (http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20100818-210) following a yearlong stint of teaching and coaching girl's basketball at Timmins High with Western Ontario's Amanda Anderson also going to Germany (in her case to the TSVE Bielefeld Dolphins) (http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20100628-017), and TWU's Karla Josefson spent some of her summer time in East Africa with Athletes in Action (http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20100802-123).

UPDATE: Now you can get the Simon Fraser University 2010-11 basketball schedules in their maiden season in the NCAA as a member of the Great Northwest: Clan men's (http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/schedules/), which opens the season in a tournament in Monmouth, Oregon against Hawaii Pacific on November 17. NCAA Home debut is on December 3 against Quest at the West Gym. The women (http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_w/schedules/), the 2008-09 and 2009-10 CIS champs, make theirs on November 19 in Portland against the Warner Pacific Knights. Their home opener comes on December 2 when Montana St.-Billings come to the Vancouver suburb of Langley at the SFU West Gym.

[Durbansandshark]

This was overlooked by me when it first hit months ago in May. But with Simon Fraser already left for the NCAA being its first non-US member, Canada West had to find another school to replace it. If you recall, Canada West delayed its expansion plans for at least a year amid concerns of how to properly harness the expansion for all parties impacted. Out of those prospective schools that you saw in this thread, Canada West welcomed the UBC-Okanagan Heat (https://news.ok.ubc.ca/athrec/2010/05/06/canada-west-welcomes-ubc-okanagan-heat/) over the likes of UNBC and Vancouver Island University. With this, the Heat undergo a three-year probationary period, effective last month, with its basketball and volleyball programs enjoying intrauniversity play next fall. UBCO were the provincial gold medalists in women's basketball this year. The men went to the nations for three running from 2007 to 2009. It's a bit surprising why UBC-Okanagan got the nod.

Travel costs surely was the driving factor for UBC-Okanagan's favor. Another one is Canada West's desire to make serious inroads into BC Interior; there's a strong sports tradition at the college level there. Its rivalry with Thompson Rivers over in Kamloops gets ressurected with the potential to eventually play football with junior affiliation, the Okanagan Sun. Northern British Columbia, my favorite choice, is located in Prince George, well away from the BC Lower Mainland, and the Canada West members probrably weren't ready to have to go visit another school along Vancouver Island with Victoria, though playing a Doomsday Double there could not hit the travel costs that much, despite being a nice travel partner and another CIS member there with the Vikes. I know those school were disappointed in not being admitted, since neither earned the requisite 75 percent for approval. UNBC Timberwolves' bid seem the most attractive with its long history and existing strong support of basketball and soccer, like drawing 700 fans for the women and 1000 for men's games in 2008, way better than many CIS schools. Ironically a Northern BC presence for the CIS wouldn't have hurt. Travel aside, what could also hurt the Timberwolves was simply focusing on basketball. For VIU, it is a very young university and it faces some funding issues. Maybe later on. If you read the press release though, UBC-Okanagan Heat's admission is contingent on CIS approval, which can't come until 2011.

Any trouble regarding the school might come with this. See, UBC-Okanagan is a very unique school. It was just a regular college or small university until a "hostile takeover" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UBC_Okanagan#The_evolution_of_university_education _in_the_Okanagan) by the UBC in 2004, but, even with a shared board of governors, it does have a separate senate to UBC's. This alone could lead to questions regarding athletic independence like in the CFL's Toronto Argonauts and the BC Lions being owned by the same guy, David Brayley. Some have concerns that UBC will have two votes and voices at the CIS meetings with the perception of conflict of interest hanging over being damaging from a boardroom perspective.

Furthermore, Thompson Rivers and Fraser Valley now enjoy full Canada West athletics status starting this season.

Time to tap into this a little later.

[Durbansandshark]

Season's about to start pretty soon.

Another CIS-NCAA battle played over the weekend. This time the UQAM Citadins squared off against NCAA D2 opponents NYIT, a school more renouned, sports-wise, for its lacrosse team. Citadins coach Olga Hrycak brought in a new assistant who has loads of experience with pro basketball in the Montreal area, Nevio Marzinotto, ex-coach of the Matrix and Royal in the ABA. He succeeds Carlo Galli as top assistant, who wanted to focus on his young family. Hrycak and her staff has a different look to their roster to one that won the Quebec provincial CIS conference tournament last season with only 5 returning players (http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20101008-171) to the team that were about ready to face a well-experienced and physical Bears team. But the Citadins did win convincingly when it was all said and done at home (www.sports.uqam.ca/citadins/nouvelles/view.php?news=771). (in French)

We did a athletic apparel outfitter association with the NCAA basketball teams. I think it's only fair that I did the CIS version. I know several schools who are signed to whom already. On a smaller scale in Canada, it's resembling a lot like what goes down south of the border. Here's who I'll start with:

McGill--Adidas
UQAM--Adidas
University of British Columbia--Adidas
Fraser Valley--Adidas
Victoria--Adidas
Trinity Western--Adidas
Thompson Rivers-Adidas
Alberta Golden Bears/Pandas--Adidas
Calgary--Adidas (men), Nike (women)
Lethbrisge--Adidas
Dalhousie--Adidas
Winnipeg--Adidas
Western Ontario--Adidas
York--Soul Sports (men), Adidas (women)
Toronto--Russell Athletic
Carleton--Adidas
Bishop's--Reebok
Ottawa--Reebok

Calgary Dinos were selected as the hosts for the 2014 CIS Final 8 women's basketball championships.

Tonight the Western Ontario Mustangs women's basketball team, with proceeds going to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, hosts at Thames Hall the fourth annual Shoot For A Cure Game with the York Lions as this year's opponents.
www.westernmustangs.ca/news/2010/10/12/WBB_1012100826.aspx
But York is surely no stranger to that.
www.yorkulions.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/10-12_Charity_preview

[Durbansandshark]

CIS basketball is about to start this weekend! :)

The 2010-11 Canada West women's basketball preview. It's obviously interesting in this conference this campaign now that the Vancouver juggernaut Simon Fraser is no longer with the other schools and joined the NCAA, having vacated the CIS title in the process. UBC, Regina, Saskatchewan, and Victoria, I expect are the contenders in the Canada West. I anticipate that the Alberta Pandas will take a fall a bit with the influx five new players, though they come with size. Calgary, Brandon, Thompson Rivers, Winnipeg, and Lethbridge each could surprise this year.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20101020-cwpreview

CIS Blog has its own preview for the season that's nationally in focus with a look at the Top 20 women's basketball schools aspiring to go to Windsor, Ontario to claim the Bronze Baby. I agree with the blog and many CIS people in the know: Windsor, with their experience led by the likes of last year's rookie of the year from France Jessica Clemencon and Windsor's hometown girl Bojana Kovacevic, will claim on the Bronze Baby on their home court.
www.cisblog.ca/2010/10/its-time-once-again-for-cis-blogs.html

Oh those Waterloo Warriors in the OUA were such gracious hosts, both the men's and women's teams lost all their matches in the preseason Naismith Classic.
http://news.therecord.com/Sports/article/795486

Shooting guard Rejean Chabot returns to the Saskatchewan Huskies after three years with Brandon admitting to the mistake of playing there.
www.thestarphoenix.com/Chabot+gets+second+shot+Huskies+basketball/3675423/story.html

Western Ontario's men's basketball is now settled (http://mustangsbackcourtclub.blogspot.com/2010/09/mustangs-2010-2011-roster-is-set.html). Now go visit that same Mustangs' blog in full (http://mustangsbackcourtclub.blogspot.com/). After a down year from the national semis appearance, Western Ontario is projected to improve this year.

CIS hoops blogger Mark Wacyk has blogged his first CIS men's basketball Top 10 for the start of the season. But he cautions for fluidity at the beggining.
http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/cishoopsca-top-10-as-of-18th-october.html

Mark (or Marek) brought up his individual school previews again:
Alberta Golden Bears (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/09/alberta-golden-bears-preview.html)
Brandon Bobcats (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/brandon-bobcats-preview.html)
Calgary Dinos (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/calgary-dinos-preview.html)
Cape Breton Capers (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/cape-breton-capers-preview.html)
Concordia Stingers (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/concordia-stingers-preview.html)
Dalhousie Tigers (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/dalhousie-tigers-preview.html)
Fraser Valley Cascades (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/fraser-valley-cascades-preview.html)
Guelph Gryphons (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/guelph-gryphons-preview.html)
Lakehead Thunderwolves (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/lakehead-thunderbirds-preview.html)
Laurier Golden Hawks (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/laurier-golden-hawks-preview.html)
Laval Rouge D'Or (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/laval-rouge-et-or-preview.html)
Lethbridge Pronghorns (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/lethbridge-pronghorns-preview.html)
McGill Redmen (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/mcgill-redmen-preview.html)
Ottawa GeeGees (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/ottawa-gee-gees-preview.html)
Regina Cougars (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/regina-cougars-preview.html)
Saint Mary's Huskies (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/saint-marys-huskies-preview.html)
Saskatchewan Huskies (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/saskatchewan-huskies-preview.html)
St. Francis Xavier Xmen (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/09/st-fx-x-men-preview.html)
Toronto Varsity Blues (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/toronto-varsity-blues-preview.html)
UQAM Citadins (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/uqam-citadins-preview.html)
Victoria Vikes (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/victoria-vikes-preview.html)
Western Ontario Mustangs (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/western-mustangs-preview.html)
Windsor Lancers (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/09/windsor-lancers-preview.html)

New Brunswick Reds and Prince Edward Island Panthers did not make the list for the previews. UPEI has a new assistant who recently played as a PG (www.upei.ca/athletics/mens-basketball/notice/2010/panthers-welcome-butler-coaching-staff), new players in the form of including Geoff Doane (www.upei.ca/athletics/mens-basketball/notice/2010/ns-champ-geoff-doane-commits-panthers), a Nova Scotia high school champ and transfer Jermaine Duke (www.upei.ca/athletics/mens-basketball/notice/2010/mens-basketball-team-adds-jermaine-duke-2010-11-season). Matthew Davies (www.upei.ca/athletics/mens-basketball/coach/matthew-davies) is in his third season as head coach there.

Over at UNB, the Reds got a second Aussie on their roster to join PF Michael Suffield from St. Ives. His name is William McFee, a guard from Northbridge, NSW. But the Varsity Reds are mostly green (http://varsityreds.ca/news/2010/10/7/MBB_1007104238.aspx?path=mbball) to start off their new season as another one to deal with the growing pains, even in the midst of the AUS conference.

[Durbansandshark]

In some other basketball dealing with UNB Reds and the UPEI, this time dealing with the women, The Varsity Reds are celebrating the reunion of the Corby sisters, Megan and Leah (http://varsityreds.ca/news/2010/9/30/WBB_0930102625.aspx), but this was in the making since Leah, a former AUS All-star, was still honing her basketball skills and getting to know her future UNB basketball teammates after being away from the game. She still had a year of CIS eligibility. Leah doesn't really have much to prove, but she does provide further depth to the VReds.

So far, UNB is doing OK starting with preseason matches against UPEI and Holland College at the University Hoops Showcase on the River, statwise (http://varsityreds.ca/news/2010/10/1/WBB_1001101011.aspx). With last weekend hosting the Accreon Helen Campbell Memorial Tournament that will test their mettle to start off with (http://varsityreds.ca/news/2010/10/3/GEN_1003104031.aspx), the VReds could emerge as a pleasant surprise in the AUS after winning soundly in the tournament (http://varsityreds.ca/news/2010/10/12/WBB_1012100749.aspx) this season. They just swept that tournament (http://varsityreds.ca/news/2010/10/13/WBB_1013104711.aspx?path=wbball). There's another one for the Reds ahead, it's the Doc Grant Classic that will be a four Atlantic and two OUA schools affair (http://varsityreds.ca/news/2010/10/21/WBB_1021104039.aspx) to raise the team's profile and level of play. We'll see how they will fare in that.

It was horrible for the UPEI women last year. Despite having a new coach in Carly Clark, the Panthers were winless all season. The roster had eight newcomers with only four players with experience and were undersized. Victoria Walker was the team's lone graduating player last season, and her leadership in the face of the futility and inexperience set a good example for the team for the next level. The lack of size was something Clark surely addressed during the offseason. Help is on the way for the Panthers with Emily MacEachern (www.upei.ca/athletics/womens-basketball/notice/2010/upei-womens-basketball-adding-former-hurricane), Jenna Jones (www.upei.ca/athletics/womens-basketball/notice/2010/jenaa-jones-nb-commits-upei-womens-basketball), and Nakita Newman (www.upei.ca/athletics/womens-basketball/notice/2010/panthers-lock-second-commitment-week).

Western Ontario Mustangs survive an early scare from York (www.westernmustangs.ca/news/2010/10/13/WBB_1013101502.aspx) in their annual Shoot For The Cure Game. View their season blog here (www.westernmustangs.ca/sports/2009/7/17/WBB_0717092458.aspx?path=wbball).

[Durbansandshark]

CIS basketball started over the weekend with the Canada West teams starting things off with five games (http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/cis_news/2010-11/releases/20101021-bbpreview), because of the largest amount of schools involved. The rest of the four Canadian conferences start no earlier than Halloween Eve, with the bulk in November. National rankings will first arrive next Tuesday. In the Canada West preseason poll the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds are atop (www.canadawest.org/news/2010/10/21/MBB_1021100346.aspx) with defending national champs Saskatchewan Huskies second. See the 2010-11Canada West men's preview (http://www.canadawest.org/news/2010/10/21/MBB_1021102248.aspx) to get another angle on how could things shake up with no SFU around with results from the Friday's games (www.canadawest.org/news/2010/10/22/MBB_1022104133.aspx) and Saturday's games culminating with another Saskatchewan-UBC thriller (www.canadawest.org/news/2010/10/23/MBB_1023102931.aspx). As of this writing, Alberta, Fraser Valley, and Regina have yet to play.

Of all the CIS schools, only Canada West's Trinity Western is private. The Spartans hail from a private Christian school.

Over in the women, where the departure of Simon Fraser is felt even more so, Regina Cougars start the preseason rankings at #1 in a tight three team race (www.canadawest.org/news/2010/10/20/WBB_1020102638.aspx). We must give Canada West women's basketball some preview love too (www.canadawest.org/news/2010/10/20/WBB_1020103737.aspx). Friday's (www.canadawest.org/news/2010/10/22/WBB_1022101049.aspx) and Saturday's (www.canadawest.org/news/2010/10/23/WBB_1023100109.aspx) games can be checked out by clicking.

CIS's take, really same as the press release links above:
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20101022-recap
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20101023-663
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20101023-recap

Basic info regarding the CIS Final 8's return to Halifax for at least two years announced with a brand new sponsor to replace Milk Energy.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20101022-367

[Durbansandshark]

Both the UQAM men's and women's basketball teams travel to Ontario this weekend for battles with Wilfried Laurier, Windsor, Western Ontario (men), Ottawa, Guelph, and Queen's (women, all at the Tindall Tournament at Queen's).

http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20101029-87

[Durbansandshark]

Week 2 in the CIS men's weekend roundup. Really, it's still Canada West games. Things won't become truly national in Canada until later this week.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20101029-recap

Simon Fraser Clan meanwhile is part of a deal by the Great Northwest Athletic Conference to have Fox Sports Northwest to GNAC broadcast men's games during this season (http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_sfufsnnorthwest/). The GNAC is widely regarded as one of the toughest conferences in Division 2 basketball as it is "well coached and highly athletic". The Clan will only make one appearance outside of the men's tournament on TV. That will be against Northwest Nazarene on January 19 on the road. The package will feature all the teams in the conference at least once, with Alaska-Anchorage appearing at least twice, and but one regular season game will fall on Wednesdays. First year head coach James Blake brought aboard Steffon Wilson (http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_wilsonassistant/) and Jeff Drinkwine (http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_drinkwine/) as his assistants. Another game of note on their debut NCAA schedule is facing against the D2 champs Cal Poly Pomona on December 18. The Clan express their thoughts on that schedule (http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_schedulerelease/).

[Durbansandshark]

Okay, the CIS national basketball rankings have hit to start the 2010-11 season. This those rankings got a sponsor, and it's Blackberry, a personal digital assistant creation invented by Canadians in Hamilton, Ontario. And the premier choices to win it all in March, Carleton in the men and Windsor in the women, start out the CIS basketball rankings as the #1 seeds in Canada, despite the fact neither team played a game this season at the time the rankings were released. For the Ravens, this is their fifth consecutive time they start the season atop the rankings, an illustration of how they are such a machine in the CIS. UBC, which had the best record of all the teams played in the Canada West, were ranked 2nd in the men. Unbeaten Victoria Vikes (4-0) is second in the women's game with another unbeaten Canada West team, Regina, right behind them.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/top_10_releases/2010-11/20101102-top10-10

A retrospective of this past Friday of CIS men's basketball as it becomes more nation in play and not just the Canada West, principally the Ontario schools with Carleton, Toronto, Trinity Western, Regina, UBC, Western Ontario, Ryerson, Winnipeg, Waterloo, Laurier, Windsor, and Victoria all winners.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20101105-recap

Saturday witnessed not just the season debut of Atlantic basketball but some wacky results. Notably the Toronto Varsity Blues' OT win over McMaster. York squeaks by against Western Ontario. Queen's doing likewise against Waterloo. Carleton Ravens are still doing their thing. Crosstown rivals Ottawa blast Guelph as OUA rivals Lakehead Thunderwolves did the same to Ryerson. Plus, there were some close ones over in the Canada West with #2 UBC upset on the road in Edmonton by Alberta. #10 Victoria losing to Manitoba. Defending champs Saskatchewan get back over .500 winning against Fraser Valley. And Trinity Western demolishes Thompson Rivers.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20101106-recap

If you haven't noticed already, defending champs Saskatchewan Huskies lost the Halloween weekend before to Victoria.

As first time hosts of the Bronze Baby Final 8 national championship, Windsor Lancers, the overwhelming faves to win it all, get themselves ready for this moment coming up in March.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20101102-cis

Marek's and Greg Maillet's University of New Brunswick Varsity Reds preview (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/10/unb-varsity-reds-preview.html) was recently added.

Oh yes, Friday night in the women's game, those long-dormat RMC (Royal Military College of Canada) Paladins pounded Waterloo 64-47 in what I think it's the second-ever CIS win for the RMC women's program. And it wasn't even close as there was a 17-point margin to end it. After three quarters, RMC held a 57-31 lead until letting Waterloo come up with a woefully insufficient 16-7 fourth quarter victory. So Waterloo suffers an embarassing defeat to the worst university basketball program in the country. I just don't think RMC assembled enough talent to be really competitive; Waterloo has to be really horrible this season if they're going to lose like this for with their pitiful talent anyone has seen for sometime for a large OUA university.

[Durbansandshark]

Ontario University Athletics's website brings out the results from the debut weekend of OUA women's basketball, something that the CIS website failed to upload. Outside of the score, there is no game summary of the RMC-Waterloo game. But don't worry: RMC went back to their perennial losing ways thanks to Wilfried Laurier the next day. Heavy Bronze Baby favo(u)rite Windsor Lancers emphatically beats the York Lions highlights the weekend with Clemencon, Kovacevic, and Peklova doing their respective things. Emphatic can also describe Western Ontario versus Laurentian in their 30-point win. We know Waterloo lost to RMC, and their subsequent game, we are knowing just how bad against Queen's. Toronto Varsity Blues are undefeated at 2-0 in OUA with wins over Lakehead and McMaster. McMaster Mauraders, last season's previous Final 8 hosts, are also winless with a close loss to another Toronto school, Ryerson. Don't sleep on the Carleton women; they could eventually emulate their male counterparts by being dominant at the Ravens' Nest! Like with their win over Brock. And the Ottawa Gee Gees grind a win out against the Guelph Gryphons.
http://oua.ca/about/news/index.html?article_id=10489

To expand and grow the interest of CIS basketball here and in my pledge not just almost focus on the big schools like in the Canada West and Carleton, Ottawa, Windsor, McGill, and Concordia this season through the CIS site, I will start with a link for the new OUA's basketball magazine preview from OUA Uncovered. (http://issuu.com/ontariouniversityathletics/docs/oua_uncovered_2010-11_basketball?mode=a_p) In this, there's an interesting development for the OUA Wilson Cup men's tournament. Say Carleton wanted to win the Wilson Cup. Previously, it would must knock off the entire lot in their OUA East division during the regular season and await for the winner come out of the OUA West to play for that. Now starting this season it will resemble like the conference tournaments in the NCAAs, the top two teams in each OUA division earn a first-round bye while the 6th place team will face the 3rd seed as the 4th seed battles the 5th. So Carleton likely can rest themselves for this if they certainly get one of the top two OUA East spots. But that's just the beginning as the OUA Final Four draws in near in McMaster. You'll also get the OUA teams' previews in both men and women. Plus some info on Ontario Basketball.

No changes at the top in both CIS basketball rankings since both Windsor and Carleton won over the weekend (http://english.cis-sic.ca/top_10_releases/2010-11/20101109-top10-11). But Carleton Ravens coach Dave Smart humbly maintains that they have not proved themselves worthy of the #1 seed in Canada (http://bigmanoncampus.typepad.com/big-man-on-campus/2010/11/were-not-no-1-were-not-no-1.html). Especially when Guelph and its coach Chris O'Rourke plays them tough.

A Hamilton Spectator preview on the McMaster Mauraders' new era under new head coach 36-year old Amos Connelly. He takes over from Joe Rasso, whose contract wasn't renewed last season after 18 solid years at the Hamilton university. Incidently, Raso still teaches at St. Mary's Catholic Secondary School round the corner. Rasso's son Victor remains on the Mauraders basketball team as a key guard. His sister Patricia plays volleyball for McMaster.
www.thespec.com/sports/local/article/273376--coach-sets-his-sights-high-for-new-look-marauders

Cam Charron reviews the Canada West women's basketball weekend 3.
www.cisblog.ca/2010/11/canada-west-womens-basketball-week-3.html#more

Marek shares his thoughts from the previous CIS weekend (http://wasssports.blogspot.com/2010/11/thoughts-from-weekend.html). As long as Ken Konchalski is living, breathing, and coaching well, St Francis Xavier is ALWAYS the team to beat out in the Atlantic Maritime provinces. As a reminder, Quebec CIS ball begins this weekend. Also includes some thoughts on the University of Fraser Valley Cascades' upset win over defending CIS champs Saskatchewan 100-90. I'll refer and link more to Marek's CIS basketball blog (and will spot others) as this season goes by, since, even with me doing this for several years now on this popular thread, I'm not as intimate about CIS ball and am always learning.

Brian Decker from the CIS Blog critiques the top OUA men's powers (www.cisblog.ca/2010/11/mens-basketball-oua-2010-11-preview.html) for the 2010-11 season.

As Simon Fraser embarks on a new chapter in its basketball in the NCAA, the suburban Vancouver school (in Langley, BC) plans to honor their basketball alumni (http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_sfualumniapp/) that have built the program to where it is now. As for the women's team, they lost their NCAA first game, an exhibition (http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_w/news/ten_exewu/) to D1 Big Sky's Eastern Washington Eagles on Sunday afternoon. But all the stats don't count toward either team.

[Durbansandshark]

Canada West men's basketball Friday review (www.canadawest.org/news/2010/11/12/MBB_1112100318.aspx)
#3 British Columbia, #8 Trinity Western, Alberta, #5 Saskatchewan, Fraser Valley, and Manitoba were all winners on that day with the TWU Spartans blasting hapless Regina.

Canada West women's Friday review (www.canadawest.org/news/2010/11/12/WBB_1112105011.aspx)
#2 Victoria won. Alberta blasts winless Brandon in spite of the Bobcats having an early lead at the beginning. #3 Regina Cougars knocks off Trinity Western. #6 Saskatchewan, Thompson Rivers, and Winnipeg were also winners in the women's docket out in the Canada West.

Canada West women's Saturday results (www.canadawest.org/news/2010/11/13/WBB_1113102131.aspx)
Victoria, Regina, and Winnipeg all remain unbeaten, though Victoria is the only one with 8 wins going onto the next weekend. Regina has six wins. Winnipeg earned five so far in the young season. Brandon is still winless. Manitoba gets their first win of the season stopping Trinity Western's three-game winning streak.

Canada West Saturday night men's results (www.canadawest.org/news/2010/11/13/MBB_1113100235.aspx)
UBC, Saskatchewan, Trinity Western, and Alberta all win convincingly. Thompson Rivers Wolfpack get their first win of the season with a nine-point win over Manitoba. Victoria wins a close one over Fraser Valley.

Quebec conference play began this past weekend. Two teams are unbeaten, though the UQAM women (www.sports.uqam.ca/citadins/basketballfeminin/formation.php) is the only one that won its first matches, a weekend series versus Bishop's and Concordia. Over in the men, #6 Laval (www.rougeetor.ulaval.ca/les_clubs/basketball/masculin/athltes/?&id=753) and McGill (www.mcgill.ca/athletics/varsitysports/teamshome/basketball_m/) are unbeaten in their respective first games.

But the major story in Canadian college basketball is the #9 Toronto Varsity Blues' upset win over the #1 women's powerhouse Windsor Friday night at Windsor's St. Denis Centre in "an intense, evenly-matched game". Could this be a preview of the OUA's championship en route to Windsor, if not the Bronze Baby Championship? #4 Western Ontario Mustangs' airtight D stifles Ryerson. Laurentian Voyaguers barely make it in time for their visiting game against the Lakehead Thunderwolves thanks to a Toronto fog delaying their flight for 2 1/2 hours to Thunder Bay. But Lakehead blasted them. Wilfrid Laurier upsets Carleton, and York knocks McMaster with Brittnay Syzockyj's season high of 21 points. Ottawa Gee Gees extends the miserable life that is the Waterloo women's basketball season, notably with Hannah Sunley-Paisley leading everyone with 24 points and 10 rebounds for Ottawa. Guelph opens their home portion of the season with a win over Queen's. Brock gets their first win very easily over the RMC Paladins.
www.oua.ca/about/news/index.html?article_id=10521

[Durbansandshark]

McMaster gets their first win of the season over York. Carleton Ravens rocks Waterloo. Windsor earns a hard-earned win over Ryerson. Toronto blasts Western Ontario. Laurentian shows up close to being late, like the women did, causing a delay for an hour, and Lakehead smelled blood, racing past the Voyaguers. Ottawa's Kale Harrison drops 30 points on Laurier after dropping 39 the night before on them. Some of the highlights from the OUA weekend in the men's game.
www.oua.ca/about/news/index.html?article_id=10520

Tuesday CIS rankings are now in with 8-0 Victoria taking over the women's national top spot after Toronto's upset victory against former #1 Windsor on Saturday. Carleton is still tops in the men.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/top_10_releases/2010-11/20101116-top10-12

Atlantic basketball also started this past weekend. Will get to that in a matter of days.

Tomorrow on November 17, the Simon Fraser men make (officially) NCAA history in their game versus Hawaii-Pacific. Two days the 2009-10 CIS women's champs make their by playing against Warner Pacific.

[Durbansandshark]

I won't do any catching up much on the CIS scene from this past weekend until Monday at the latest following the Thanskgiving weekend with this post. But I will say some developments occured.

In the CIS women's game over in Canada West, the Victoria Vikes desended down from not just #1 in the country but also the ranks of the undefeated after winning eight straight. Thanks to #3 Regina Cougars over the weekend.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20101119-recap

The CIS Top Ten basketball came out this Tuesday and because of the Victoria loss to Regina, Windsor Lancers regains the top women's spot in all of Canada. Carleton remains unbeaten this season in the men's game, and so are Laval and the Dalhousie Tigers.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/top_10_releases/2010-11/20101123-top10-13

[Durbansandshark]

History is being made with Simon Fraser playing in the NCAA as the first and only Canadian school represented. Here with basketball being the big sport, it is planning to be competitive. There's some depth on both teams, more so in the women that were the back-to-back CIS Bronze Baby champs before the move. Regarding the men, just about everything is new about them (http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten/), so it's going to be difficult to gauge how the Clan men will perform with a few raw players in the stable with much tougher and experienced opposition than in Canada West. Therefore, this season be more about the process in the significant transition. It's going to be a very interesting time in their debut season as a NCAA member, and I'll cover that school from the Vancouver suburb of Langley every step of the way, especially against its new Great Northwest Athletic Conference members. Furthermore, it is also eligible for the NAIA tournament.

Simon Fraser men's first exhibition game was against Langara College Falcons. It was no contest with the help of its two college transfers Ricky Berry and Justin Brown. Though it was not without its opening jitters with 11 new players on the Clan. They ran away with it 80-56.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_sfuexone/

Ricky Berry finished with 37 points in a night to remember as Chris Evans converted a layup in the dying seconds to give the Clan a win over the Blue Angels 81-10 to end SFU's preseason undefeated.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_sfublueangels/

The Clan opened their historic debut NCAA season with a tournament game in Western Oregon's Monmouth home against the Hawaii Pacific Sea Warriors. In words of their coach James Blake, the Clan only "played one half of basketball" before letting the Sea Warriors win 92-79. A 10-0 Sea Warriors run in the last 15 minutes of the second half sealed their fate.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_sfuhpuone/

Their weekly outlook from this past week as they await the San Francisco St. Gators.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_belmontpreview/

The Clan add France's Cedric Die and California's Jordan Sergent for the 2011-12 season.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_diesergent/

Poor shooting from Simon Fraser doomed them on the road against San Francisco St. at the Notre Dame de Namur Thanksgiving Classic.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_sfusfsuone/

UC San Diego Tritons keep the SFU Clan winless to end its road trip before going home to face Quest University.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_sfuucsdone/

Tomorrow, the Clan play its first home game as a NCAA member with the Quest Kermodes in the West Gym as part of its first-ever NCAA homestand. Is the attendance at the West Gym pumped for this?
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_questmsubpreview/

The SFU Clan women endured significant turnover of their own after winning the last two Bronze Babies, but this is more due to the regulations in their transition from the CIS to the NCAA. For the first time in a decade, Simon Fraser is not expected to contend for any title this season with five new players inject with the four returnees from the 32-1 CIS championship team from last season.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_w/news/ten_sfuwbbpreview/

Nayo Raincock-Ekunwe's near triple double brings their first win in NCAA history over the Warner Pacific College Knights 75-69 despite some expected sloppy play from a very young and inexperienced team.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_w/news/ten_sfuwpcone/

The Simon Fraser women convincingly win over the Southern Oregon Raiders 88-65. Raincock-Ekunwe strikes again with help from Anna Carolsfeld as they ran away from the beginning.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_w/news/ten_sfusouone/

Simon Fraser wins again going 3-0 over the previously undefeated Western St. College Mountaineers in the Mile High City.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_w/news/ten_sfuwsscone/

But then the "aggressive" Metro St. Roadrunners put a stop to Simon Fraser's winning ways in Denver with four of its players finishing in double figures. The Clan came as only close as 10 points from Metro St. by using coach Bruce Langford's words as "coming out extremely flat...and badly outrebounded".
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_w/news/ten_sfumscone/

On Thursday, SFU's women will play its first West Gym home game as a NCAA member against Montana State-Billings. Folowing that will be a reunion game against former in-city Canada West rivals British Columbia for the Barbara Rae Cup on Saturday.

[Durbansandshark]

Over in the Ontario University Athletics conference almost two weekends ago, the major story happened in the men's game there was the Ryerson Rams escaped with a thrilling 108-105 overtime win over the Brock Badgers. Ryerson built up a 18-point lead in the third quarter before the 2008 CIS champs Brock came roaring back and couldn't go away. At that same weekend, another Toronto school, the Toronto Varsity Blues stopped the Guelph Gryphons to take second place in the OUA East Division behind the undefeated #1 Carleton Ravens while the Gryphons were locked in three-way tie for fourth in the OUA West. Drazen Glisic from Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina produced 15 points and six assists for the Blues. His teammates Andrew Wasik had a double double (12 points and 13 rebounds) and Arun Kumar had 11 points and six assists in that game. Just another example of the Carleton Ravens juggernaut that weekend with a soundly defeat over Western Ontario--a 33-point margin. Everything was downhill for the Mustangs after that small first half lead with the Ravens outrebounding them. Phillipp Scrubb made a career-high of 26 points with two other Ravens scoring in double figures (Kyle Smendziuk's 15 points and Elliot Thompson's 18). The Windsor Lancers are becoming just as good as the #1 national powerhouse women with a close win at home against Ottawa. More good news for the Toronto schools came with the York Lions winning a squeaker against Waterloo that went down the wire 78-76. York's David Tynsdale led all scorers with 24 points. Ostap Choily and Dejan Kravic each netted 14-point performances for the Lions, despite both teams going ice cold in the latter part of the game. Laurentian, with their lights out 49% field shooting, held off Laurier in another OUA tight one. Freshman Taylor Black scores a buzzer beater for McMaster in the win over Queen's Friday night.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10538

As we get closer to the Christmas-Winter Break in CIS ball, the second-to-last week in play saw another set of tight ones in OUA play. Headlining story from this past weekend was Laurier getting back to their winning ways knocking off then-#9 Toronto. #1 ranked Carleton get their monstrous revenge on the Lakehead Thunderwolves from last season in the Ravens' last game of 2010. York continues to win with a resounding road victory against Guelph, thanks in no small part to the sloppy nine turnovers prompting a 29-9 York run in the third quarter. The freshmen Ottawa players help win versus McMaster in front of a large, rowdy, and loud home crowd. Before the loss to Laurier, Toronto won against mediocre Waterloo. Then-#8 Waterloo collects a 68-54 road win over Queen's as the Warriors outscore by 10. Laurier's game with Waterloo was up and down, but what was important was the Golden Hawks win in it.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10563

Over in the OUA women's game, the Windsor Lancers reasserts their dominance after reclaiming the #1 CIS ranking. They won convincingly over Queen's and RMC--no surprise anyway with the latter team (95-41). Windsor's All-Canadian Jessica Clemencon played like a beast during this past weekend. She had 24 points and 11 rebounds against Queen's with her defense helping the Lancers' overall outstanding version to contain Queen's to 10 points in the second quarter tio end the first half with 44-27. This continued in the third as the Lancers only allowed one more point in the third than in the second to Queen's. The Lancers had four players score in double figures, including Bojana Kovacevic with 14 points, Miah-Marie Langlois with 13 and Morgan Jean with 10. Windsor also shot an impressive 45% from the field. Clemencon added 24 points to her CIS total in the RMC game the following Saturday.

For her all-too-noticeable efforts in those weekend games, the OUA congratulated Clemencon, the OUA's leading scorer, by naming her the Pioneer Petroleums OUA Women's Athlete of the Week. She also got another great honor that week from the CIS as the Blackberry CIS Female Athlete of the Week. Congrats to Jessica Clemencon on both hono(u)rs! :)
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10567
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10574

All of the following news come from the weekend before last: Brittany Szockyj continues her impressive season with York as the Lions rout hapless (and still winless) Waterloo in their best offensive production of the young season. Carleton scrapped a tight one against Western Ontario to give the Mustangs their first loss of the season. Windsor continues to win in the hopes of regaining the #1 spot after that Victoria upset loss with Windsor native Bojana Kovacevic's all around game. Wilfrid Laurier continued their winning ways over the weekend...until they ran into York the next day. A solid team effort with everybody on the Marauders scoring in their home win against Queen's, who are still searching their second win of the season. Led by Stephanie Truelove, Alyska Lukan, Taylor Chiarot, Jacklynn Nimmec, and Bonomo, this might be the start to rise in the standings. Guelph wins in Toronto versus Ryerson. Lakehead Thunderwolves win over RMC. Brock knocks off Toronto, so it was not a good weekend for Toronto's women's OUA teams.
http://www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10539

Outside of the great exploits of #1 Windsor and Clemencon this past weekend, there were some good matches. Western Ontario came back from trailing at the half to win by a point over Queen's. Brock extends their winning streak to five by beating York by ten in front of 500 fans at home. Guelph's defense contains Laurentian to one single field goal in the last quarter. Ryerson beats hosts Waterloo. Ottawa gets a better flow and chemistry as a team against McMaster, and could be the start of a fresh streak. Toronto comes to Wilfrid Laurier and wins. And in the last home game in 2010 for the Raven women, Carleton did the same things to Lakehead what their male counterparts did.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10564

UBC-Fraser Valley (UFV) was a long-range show as they combined for 25 three-pointers with the Thunderbirds walking away with the win. Defending champs Saskatchewan destroyed visiting Winnipeg in a major way with 114 points, sitting on a 4 game winning streak. Trinity Western gets six wins in a row scalping Alberta. Victoria Vikes win by 30--those Evil Laker Empire-inspired unis must go! :evil: A relaxed and focused Calgary limited their mistakes against Brandon. Thompson Rivers Wolfpack lose both of their final weekend home games to Lethbridge before the winter break, keeping them at just one win.
www.canadawest.org/news/2010/11/20/MBB_1120100254.aspx

[Durbansandshark]

Earlier tonight the Winnipeg Wesmen women won over provincial rival Manitoba 67-44. Details to follow next week.

Congrats to Regina's Paul Gareau and Alberta Panda Nicole Clark for winning the CIS Male Player of the Week and CW Female Athlete of the Week, respectively!
www.canadawest.org/news/2010/11/30/CW_1130103423.aspx

#7 Trinity Western extends their winning ways over #10 Alberta by 13 points. Brandon Bobcats shoot two three-pointers in the final one and a half minutes to beat Calgary in the Dinos' Gym. #3 UBC go 3-0 in their home record for the season after dispatching UFV. CIS champs Huskies score 53 points en route to dominate Winnipeg. Thompson Rivers should've held on against the Lethbridge Pronghorns. And the Vikes make 15 three pointers over Regina.
www.canadawest.org/news/2010/11/19/MBB_1119102450.aspx

Last weekend's Canada West men's basketball preview.
www.canadawest.org/news/2010/11/23/MBB_1123104555.aspx

Outside of British Columbia blasting Lethbridge, there were several competitive games. Thompson Rivers continue to lose with Fraser Valley getting the better of them. Trintiy Western improve their record. But the big story of that weekend was Gareau scoring a career high 42 points for the Regina Cougars.
www.canadawest.org/news/2010/11/25/MBB_1125105054.aspx

Victoria and Alberta's overtime game and another tight one between Brandon and Manitoba headline the Saturday games.
www.canadawest.org/news/2010/11/27/MBB_1127102419.aspx

Preview of the weekend's Canada West games that includes a battle of two 6-4 teams:
www.canadawest.org/news/2010/12/1/MBB_1201102055.aspx

Over in the Atlantic, St. Mary's edges against the Dalhousie Tigers with Justine Colley scoring the game-winner for the Huskies with three seconds remaining to go over .500 for the season at home. Her teammate Susanne Canvin, a UPEI tansfer, stole the ball from the Tigers to preserve the St. Mary's win. Their male counterparts also beat Dalhousie, who were then ranked #10 and likely knocked from the CIS top ten. Both at the The Tower.
http://www.atlanticuniversitysport.com/news/news_story.php?news_id=1446

Memorial Sea Hawks Alexandria Forsey is the AUS Female Athlete of the Week for netting a combined 50 points in the Sea Hawks weekend sweep against visiting St. Mary's. The two wins put them in three-way tie for first with a 4-2 record coming into the winter break.
www.atlanticuniversitysport.com/news/news_story.php?news_id=1451

[Durbansandshark]

For the final CIS Top Ten rankings for not just the fall 2010 session but for the entire year of 2010, Carleton remains on top in the men's basketball rankings on Tuesday. Cape Breton Capers is the only other undefeated team in the top ten. But UBC is the only school with 10 wins there. No such situation exists over in the women's CIS game, but Windsor is still atop in the rankings there at 7-1. There, two Canada West schools, Regina and Alberta, have at least 10 wins.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/top_10_releases/2010-11/20101207-top10-15

Winter break time in the CIS. Things get back running in January.

Speaking of Cape Breton, a powerhouse in the Atlantic University Sports conference, the Capers will spend the last few days of this year and some of the first of the new one in Beijing as part of a bridge building and partnership with Chinese universities, high schools, universities, and organizations. In this case, the Capers will play against the Renmin University republic of China basketball team, China University Super League first champs and holders of several Beijing University Basketball League titles, twice and a Shougang youth team. Will we ever see that with NCAA teams like this? Not likely.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20101210-871

Queen's wipes RMC all over the place. Manitoba wins nicely over Winnipeg in provincial rivalry to even the 20th Duckworth Challenge. All on the previous Thursday.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20101202-recap

Trinity Western's Jason Doerkson goes bonkers by producing 42 points in the Spartans' no contest win over Fraser Valley. With 20 three pointers, the Spartans set a school record for most made in a game. Plus, Doerksen was honored as CIS Male Player of the Week.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20101204-recap
http://english.cis-sic.ca/aotw/2010-11/week_13/20101208-aotw13

#2 Victoria Vikes women falls to #9 Alberta to headline the final weekend of CIS women's basketball play. Brittany Szockyj's 20 points wasn't enough for York against Brock. UBC dumps Lethbridge.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20101126-recap

#8 Alberta does that again. This time to #2 Regina in a battle to split the weekend. Turnovers cost Trinity Western against the University of Fraser Valley.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20101204-recap

Simon Fraser got their historic first win on their home floor at the West Gym as a NCAA member by beating Quest convincingly.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_sfuquestone/

To commemorate their first ever GNAC win, also at the West Gym, three SFU players scored 20 points in their win against the Montana State Billings Yellowjackets. With that coach James Blake sports a red suit for this game. Watch the companion video.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_sfumsubone/

Montana State Billings women were also in tow in Vancouver to face Simon Fraser to helkp open the Clan women's historic first GNAC season. Before then, Denver's Metro St. Roadrunners snapped SFU's 11-game winning streak, dating from February on the march to their last CIS title. Still, everything's strong for them.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_w/news/ten_sfumsububcpreview/

...but the Yellowjackets stop a Simon Fraser women home winning streak that started in 2008. Yes, this is all part and parcel of the transition so somethings had to give, you could say.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_w/news/ten_sfumsubone/

Archrivals the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds beat Simon Fraser in a Canada West reunion of sorts for the Barbera Rae Cup in an OT thriller. Two costly SFU turnovers at the end spelled doom to a 11-year winning streak in this cup the Clan enjoyed over UBC. Nayo already now has five double double games.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_w/news/ten_sfuubten/

[Durbansandshark]

A conference-wide look at the last CanadaWest men's basketball weekend of the year 2010. Trinity Western earns their school record 10th straight win of the 2010-11 season to end the year, claiming the Fraser Valley Cascades as the Spartans' latest victim. In the previous game that weekend, TWU went on a 30-9 rampage versus UFV. Alberta gives up 61 points in the second half's final 20 minutes after leading by 17 at the half at home to Regina. Perhaps it's karma for the blasting the previous day's game. Manitoba ends up with 22 more points against Winnipeg with the Wesmen remaining at the doldrums.
www.canadawest.org/news/2010/12/2/MBB_1202103737.aspx

www.canadawest.org/news/2010/12/2/WBB_1202104243.aspx
The top two teams in Canada West women's basketball, Regina and Alberta, split the weekend series to end the year in Edmonton, Alberta. Trinity Western women lose their 12th in a row at the other end of the table (or standings as we call them here in the US and Canada), losing 12. While Fraser Valley, like British Columbia right now, wins their fourth in a row. And some news on Winnipeg's win against Manitoba, as promised. Brandon is still winless.

A few weeks ago, Calgary Dinos fell short to powerhouse Regina by two. UBC blasts Lethbridge, keeping them down in the standings. Winnipeg doubles TWU's total in the former's win. Thompson Rivers loses ground against UFV.
www.canadawest.org/news/2010/11/25/WBB_1125104812.aspx

If there's ever a good reason or highlight to Queen's poor season this year, it's that they're thankful for the presence of Royal Military College. Any team in the CIS can beat them up. Freshman Nikola Misljencevic from Ottawa led the Gaels with a career-high of 17 points for its best game of the season (and largest margin of victory this season too) as they gave the poor Paladins another typical lopsided loss. Queen's will head for a holiday tournament in Halifax before the 2011 portion of the season starts.
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10576

Laurentian Voyaguers, coached by former national team player Shawn Swords, end their year with a win versus the York Lions. Swords approved of the Voyaguers' defensive effort in the victory. Manny Pasquale, son of Victoria Vikings legend Eli, led Laurentian with 25 points and 5 rebounds. Ostap Choily led York with 16 points and 5 boards in the loss.
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10581

It's interesting that three teams each from the Canada West and the Ontario University Athletics conferences are among the top ten in the CIS Blackberry rankings to end the year. In the women's rankings, it's four each. But that exemplifies the strength of both conferences, especially with the Canada West having a long stranglehold on the Bronze Baby in the women, and of the amount conference representatives in the Final 8.

To round out the 2010 portion of the OUA women's basketball season, York Lions applied immense pressure against the Laurentian Voyaguers in the third quarter to contain Laurentian's offensive apparatus, which actually could not get situated in the game, in the Lions' win. Despite this, Katie Goggins scored 20 for the Lady Vees and teammate Lisa Furchner got her 1000th point in the second quarter. Meanwhile, Queen's Gaels put an end to their six-game losing with some very easy help from crosstown rivals (which isn't saying much from their performances) RMC, always a good elixir for other teams. Incidentally, both Laurentian and RMC are tied for last in the OUA East Division. Queen's Gaels will head over to Montreal and play in the Concordia Invitational during the holiday break at the end of the year.
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10582

Well, the #1 women's team in Canada, the Windsor Lancers will get even more talented next season. Lancers coach Chantal Vallee is pleased to announce it got one top recruits in the Ottawa region for the past few in guard Francesca Bellehumeur-Moya. Windsor, as a team with the best chance to cease the Canada West stranglehold of the Bronze Baby to go with their two-time OUA titles, may have a national dynasty in the making with her, Clemencon, Bojana Kovacevic, and Iva Peklova. Furthermore, it will give All-Canadian Jessica Clemencon another person outside the coach on the team whom she can speak French with.
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10600

Ottawa Gee Gees got their first recruit for next year. She's a hometown star who spurned other CIS schools and NCAA ones to stay at home and played for Canada's U17 and U18 teams. She's got some ties to the school from her family. This is Francesca's teammate at Louis-Riel, Kellie Ring.
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10598

I'll get to Quebec and the Atlantic schools in a couple of days.

[Durbansandshark]

As the prospective Canada West schools like Vancouver Island, Northern British Columbia, Capilano and possibly future members Grant McEwen and Mount Royal lick their wounds over not being admitted to Canada West, their basketball season tries to move on from that.

VIU Mariners teams both progressed to a 7-1 record to end the 2010 portion of the 2010-11 season. Both the men's and women's teams have beaten the Quest Kermodes (www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_island_central/nanaimonewsbulletin/sports/106862943.html) (more here from later on (http://mariners.viu.ca/news/2010/11/07/great-start-viu-basketball/)), the Langara Falcons (www2.canada.com/nanaimodailynews/news/sports/story.html?id=e1a47d9e-1e21-4387-ba03-5e4ffce36b07), and then Douglas College Royals (http://mariners.viu.ca/news/2010/11/14/mariners-thump-douglas/) along with the men splitting a weekend series with the Northern British Columbia Timberwolves (http://mariners.viu.ca/news/2010/11/21/basketball-teams-split-unbc/) (Mariners women won the series winning in Prince George, BC).

The women won on the road on back to back weekends (http://mariners.viu.ca/news/2010/11/28/womens-basketball-win-again-road/).

Capilano Blues are presently undefeated with some strong help from newcomers (www2.capilanou.ca/services/athletics/10-11news/mbbnews/nov310.html). It defeated future Canada West members UBC-Okanagan (www2.capilanou.ca/services/athletics/10-11news/mbbnews/nov810.html) (including the women dubbed the "Miami Heat of the BCCAA" (www2.capilanou.ca/services/athletics/10-11news/1011wbbnews/nov2510.html)). Sasha Polischuk has been awesome for the women, like here (www2.capilanou.ca/services/athletics/10-11news/1011wbbnews/nov810.html). The Blues women won over the Columbia Bible College Bearcats to end their 2010 portion (www2.capilanou.ca/services/athletics/10-11news/1011wbbnews/nov2810.html). With their perfect records atop the BCCAA basketball conference (www2.capilanou.ca/services/athletics/10-11news/mbbnews/nov2910.html), the Blues teams look forward to enjoying their holiday break with Christmas tournaments.

Couldn't find much info on the progress of UNBC Timberwolves' respective seasons. Will try later.

Quebec University Basketball League has UQAM men playing at a 2-3 record as the women's Citadins enjoy a reverse record (3-2) at the end of the season. McGill, one of the three English-speaking CIS basketball Quebec schools, started things with wins against Bishop's Gaithers (www.mcgill.ca/athletics/newsroom/spotlight/item/?item_id=169586)--and later in a squeaker against them (www.mcgill.ca/athletics/newsroom/spotlight/item/?item_id=169703). However, the Redmen later to Concordia (www.mcgill.ca/athletics/newsroom/spotlight/item/?item_id=169866). Sophomore Greg Gause nets a career high of 24 points (www.mcgill.ca/athletics/newsroom/spotlight/item/?item_id=169897) against cross-town Francophone rivals UQAM. Then they fall to Quebec leaders Laval up at home (www.mcgill.ca/athletics/newsroom/spotlight/item/?item_id=170003).

[Durbansandshark]

During the CIS winter break, plenty of holiday exhibition tournaments were going on. These affairs often bring together schools who normally don't even play each during the regular season outside of the Final 8 national tournament because of the pro-conference play before then. Here's one such that went on in Toronto involving the Ryerson Rams at the RNIT Tournament, back in the city after a lengthy absence. The Rams lost in this tournament to the Walsh University Cavaliers for the championship that also involved York, Toronto, UNB, Waterloo, and smaller schools Mohawk and Algoma.

Here is the recap of the RNIT Tournament from games 9-12 (http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20101231-372)

Christian Upshaw makes a smashing return to the St. Francis Xavier X-Men in the final with them winning the Rod Shoveller Memorial Tournament over hosts Dalhousie.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100102-018

Carleton Ravens women win over the UQAM Citadins on the road in Montreal in a close one.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20101230-88

Hosts Concordia Stingers win the Concordia-Reebok Women's Basketball Tournament in Montreal in a very tight one over UBC. Queen's finished third by winning over Memorial. Bishop's rout Manitoba and held the Bison to 33% shooting. Ryerson was disappointing. So it was a mixed one during the holiday for the basketball programs from the downtown Toronto school.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20100102-341
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20101230-772

[Durbansandshark]

CIS basketball season 2010-11 returned in full swing this past weekend in both the men and women for the 2011 portion of this season.

Getting back into this to start with as I wait until tomorrow for a more detailed post tomorrow, the Ontario University Athletics conference witnessed in the men's weekend the Windsor Lancers, the McMaster Maurauders, and the Waterloo Warriors all coming out as winners on Wednesday. Competitive games all with the end results, though Waterloo had to endure a slow start to begin their game with visiting Brock Badgers before going 50% in field shooting in the second half. Windsor's strong shooting was too much for Western Ontario.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20100105-recap

A more national recap of the CIS Friday night's women's games from Quebec to Canada West. UQAM's Marjolaine Gauthier-Theoret enjoyed a double double (17 points and 15 rebounds) and led throughout the contest against Bishop's at home. York's Nadia Qawash, Emily Perras, and Brittany Szockyj help the Lions continue the RMC's perennial woes, and it wasn't just their smooth passing and ballhandling. Laurentian dominates over Queen's. Rising Carleton Ravens win at their Ravens' Nest home in Ottawa against Toronto's Ryerson despite the fact the Rams came alive in the third quarter. Ottawa gets over #10 Toronto in a thrilling breath taker. Manitoba hoped to start the new year right against British Columbia following some holiday tournament losses, but they ended up getting destroyed by the Thunderbirds even keeping it close for only the first quarter, adding to their recent misery. Saskatchewan and Alberta also enjoyed no contests that night in their games. Victoria freshmen Jessica Renfrew answered the call for the Vikes and will have to do so more often with teammate Kayla Dykstra out for the season with a knee injury with a win against Trinity Western. Winnipeg moves up in the Canada West standings as Thompson Rivers fell closer to the .500 mark. Fraser Valley's three point shooting proves itself to be far more superior against Calgary, and that was a major difference for the Cascades' favor over the Dinos at Calgary's Jack Simpson Gym.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110107-recap

[Durbansandshark]

Simon Fraser University had a winter break even now that they're in the NCAA ball, something they would continue to enjoy if they stayed in the CIS.

PG Justin Brown won the NAIA AII Athlete of the Week on December 8:
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_brownaiione/

The Clan men's, led by Ricky Berry and Justin Brown, team did get a week off before heading off to Phoenix for a tournament to face Grand Canyon Lopes and the defending NCAA D2 champs Cal-Poly Pomona Broncos:
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_phoenixtourneyone/

In their first game against Grand Canyon, they rallied in the second half being behind only see their rally fall short against the Lopes 74-72:
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_sfugcuone/

For the final game of 2010, in their tournament in Phoenix, against #15 Cal Poly Pomona, the Broncos dropped the Clan for the latter to go 2-5. The closest margin was five points that SFU went to:
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/ten_sfucppone/

SFU started the new year with a road game near the US-Canadian border at Bellingham, Washington to face the Western Washington Vikings as they resumed GNAC play. Despite career games from Zack Frehlick and Ricky Berry, the Vikings hand another loss to the Clan. WWU's John Allen had 43 points for the home victors. Simon Fraser was blazing from the start and the frantic pace between both teams kept going for the final 20 minutes of the game. Berry tried with his 40 points for SFU:
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/elv_sfuwwuone/

The NCAA inexperience continues to show with another road loss. This time to the Western Oregon Wolves in Monmouth, Oregon later on the week. Actually this past weekend. They couldn't hold on to the lead:
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/elv_sfuwouone/

St. Martin's Saints' flurry of scoring hammers the Simon Fraser Clan down further in the GNAC standings. Jeremy Green enjoyed 35 points and 15 rebounds for the Saints. Justin Brown's 38 points were negated for SFU:
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/elv_sfusmuone/

Returning from that losing two-game road trip in Washington and then Oregon, SFU hopes to put that behind them with a home stand that starting tomorrow that features two Alaska teams who are on opposite sides of the GNAC standings. Tomorrow Simon Fraser faces the 4-0-in-the-GNAC Alaska-Anchorage Seawolves. Two days later on Saturday, the new NCAA member faces the winless Alaska-Fairbanks Nanooks.
http://athletics.sfu.ca/teams/basketball_m/news/elv_alaskapreview/

The women will arrive tomorrow. Hint: they're undergoing woes in their first season in NCAA ball too with GNAC conference play underway for them.

Jacob Doerksen scored 27 as the #7 Trinity Western Spartans win, going 12 straight wins, over Victoria, now at .500. TWU now sits pretty atop the Canada West men's basketball standings. #2 UBC wins over Manitoba. Saskatchewan hits the century mark in their spanking to Brandon. And so does Winnipeg over Thompson Rivers in OT in a more competitive game. The Lethbridge Pronghorns keeps it closer to Alberta but not enough for the win. UFV cascades the Dinos all to headline the Canada West men's basketball Saturday.
http://www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/8/MBB_0108110937.aspx

#2 Saskatchewan remains sizzling with 8 straight for wins as the Brandon Bobcats continue to go winless for 12 straight and stay at the bottom of the Canada West women's basketball standings. Leaders Alberta embarasses Lethbridge to 10 straight losses. Calgary gets back on track with a win over Fraser Valley. #4 Victoria help maintain Trinity Western's losing ways. UBC wins again by knocking off Manitoba.
http://www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/8/WBB_0108113725.aspx

It was a very good last week for Atlantic University Sports basketball with CIS Blackberry Athletes of the Week Awards going to Acadia's Emma Dunkier and St. Mary's Joey Haywood:
http://english.cis-sic.ca/aotw/2010-11/week_14/20110112-aotw14

OUA presented double basketball awards for the week to Queen's Hanna Koposhynska and Laurier's Patrick Donnelly:
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10639

York, Toronto, Carleton, Laurentian, and Lakehead all were winners in the Saturday's games in OUA play:
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10625

Tonight's women's OUA game in Hamilton, Ontario between McMaster and #1-ranked Windsor has been postponed to February 6 and moved to Windsor due to a combination of illness and injuries hitting the McMaster team, making the Marauders unable to suit up enough players for the game. The men's version of the game is not affected.
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10641

If this past Saturday in OUA women's basketball ever taught you something, it's that the Waterloo Warriors women's basketball team is really, really horrible this season. And it wasn't just the fact that the typically winless team RMC got their first (and very, very likely only) win this season that confirms it earlier this season. You know you suck in the OUA when can't beat RMC. Other no contest winners in OUA ball on Saturday include #1 Windsor, Laurentian, Western Ontario, and Ottawa. The closest OUA game that day was between #6 Carleton and #9 Toronto. It was close all right at the Ravens Nest with the Ravens scoring two points in the final seconds as they solidify their control of first place in the OUA East. The aforementioned Hanna Koposhynska, who was averaging 4.1 points entering this game, exploded for 20 points for Queen's as they defeated the York Lions for their third win of the season, thus earning her the OUA Female Athlete of the Week:
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10628

[Durbansandshark]

Also tonight, the Windsor Lancers women's basketball team loses their #1 CIS ranking. The Saskatchewan Huskies have taken over the top spot with 24 first place votes after winning four games in a row since the holidays. The Huskies have convincingly won against McMaster 92-51 and #4 Regina, their provincial rivals, 67-59 during the holidays in interconference play. With regular season conference play resuming last week, Saskatchewan blasted Brandon over the weekend 82-36 and 79-33.

[Durbansandshark]

More details tomorrow from the CIS. But here's the link to the current CIS rankings that has the Saskatchewan Huskies atop the rankings in the women's game from Windsor, and Carleton remains the only unbeaten school in the CIS rankings in the men's game and still #1.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/top_10_releases/2010-11/20110111-top10-16

[Durbansandshark]

Been delayed for several days here, mostly for work schedule reasons. Not to mention the snow here. But it's now here with some more recent developments.

The top six teams in Canada West's men basketball standings are all on lengthy winning streaks, especially with UBC, defending champs Saskatchewan, and Trinity Western. Both schools by now clinched tournament berths for the Canada West postseason with the top 8 schools from it going next month. As it presently stands, Fraser Valley, which features James Elliott from Perth who scored 20 points in a game against the Alberta Golden Bears, holds the eighth and final spot for the Canada West big dance, having lost a game this past weekend. Calgary Dinos take a tumble out of the top 8 thanks to a five-game losing streak. Manitoba Bison are in serious danger of falling out of the eight with their six-game losing streak. Also, two Canada West teams, the tournament winner and the second-place team, will book a trip to Halifax.

A profile on Thunderbird iron man Alex Murphy currently on a Canada West record of 144 consecutive games in his fifth and final CIS season, an important pillar in British Columbia's recent success.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/14/MBB_0114115336.aspx

Almost two weekends ago, the Canada West men's basketball action that was on Friday and Saturday nights. #2 UBC keeps Calgary tumbling down the standings and later puts its foot on Winnipeg. The Huskies and the Spartans keep on winning. Fraser Valley Cascades enjoy their last victories before losing the next weekend. With Alberta, they split the previous weekend. Regina reverts to their winning ways with Paul Gareau and Jeff Luffkomski netting 35 and 34 points, respectively, against woeful Thompson Rivers. But after that, the Wolfpack won a Chas Kok game-winner the next day. Victoria Vikes keeps Winnipeg down. In a game that's meaningless as far as tourney berths are concerned, Lethbridge Pronghorns one-ups the Brandon Bobcats. Manitoba's woes continue, particularly getting romped by #3 Saskatchewan.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/14/MBB_0114112942.aspx
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/15/MBB_0115110922.aspx

Canada West men's preview from the previous weekend with the #3 Huskies facing three members of Thompson Rivers averaging double doubles for the team. #5 TWU squared off versus Calgary as they visit the Dinos.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/19/MBB_0119112615.aspx

Saskatchewan wins their 10th straight game, showing no respect to the Wolfpack. Trinity Western wins their record 14th. UBC shows no mercy to the Bobcats in their 12th straight win. Those dominate the winning streaks going on that weekend in the Canada West.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/21/MBB_0121110044.aspx
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/22/MBB_0122115132.aspx

Over in Canada West women's basketball, only #1 Saskatchewan and UBC, like their male counterparts, have double digit winning streaks in their conference. Kim Tulloch still doing her thing for the conference's best hope now to keep the Bronze Baby in the Canada West conference with SFU gone. So all that continues. Unlike the men, Trinity Western women are not winning, having lost their last 16 games. At least, they're not like the Waterloo women in the OUA because the Spartans won their first game. Brandon is worse: they haven't won a game this season AT ALL in their 16 games so far. Kinda makes you wonder, who would win between those two if they squared off so that win would put that ugly, smelly, burden-heavy gorilla off their weary backs, Brandon or Waterloo? Boy, do those two teams suck this year, especially when UBC blasted the Bobcats and Waterloo didn't want to show up to play! The real story now as we get close the conference championship in February is all the jockeying for good positioning to be among the top eight schools for it with the top six teams safely with solid above .500 records with at least a .722 winning percentage. Thompson Rivers needs to get to turn things around in a hurry with their current losing streak to stay among them because Calgary is starting to threaten with their last two wins. #10 Winnipeg had an overtime thriller win versus the Regina Cougars this past weekend.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/14/WBB_0114115847.aspx
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/15/WBB_0115110539.aspx
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/21/WBB_0121110221.aspx
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/22/WBB_0122110058.aspx

Speaking of Kim Tulloch, she's the reigning Canada West female athlete of the week.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/25/CW_0125110400.aspx

In another chapter in the rivalry of two of the three Toronto area OUA schools, Ryerson and York play to a close one. There were several fairly competitive games, including the other Toronto team, the Varsity Blues winning convincingly against Laurentian, but the Carleton-RMC, Toronto-RMC, Carleton-Laurentian, and Ryerson-Queen's matches were definitely not among them. The Ravens are still #1 in the country. Windsor gets by Waterloo, who are NOT winless like the women. So did Lakehead over McMaster. Games got more competitive last Saturday for many with the OUA conference tournament ahead.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10648
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10660
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10663
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10674

I'll get to the OUA women on Friday here. That postponed Windsor-McMaster also cost the Bronze Baby faves Windsor first place in the OUA West Division to the Western Ontario Mustangs. And yes, the Waterloo Warriors women still continue to find futility in every game they play.

[Durbansandshark]

The OUA women's basketball weekends for the past three will actually appear early next week along with the latest in the Canada West, Quebec, the Atlantic, Simon Fraser, the OUA men, and the lower level of Canadian college basketball. I'll have more time to do that.

But Wednesday night in Ottawa, the fifth annual MBNA Capital Hoops Classic took place between #1 Carleton Ravens (14-0) and the Ottawa Gee Gees (6-4). OUA women's basketball cross-city rivalry between the two schools acted as the starter at 5pm US Canada CST, the fourth time the Capital Hoops Classic is a doubleheader. The Raven women stood atop the OUA East at 12-2 with the Ottawa women are doing much better, presently third in the OUA East, than the men. Carleton was favo(u)red to win both games. We'll find out next week on the results and if that night's games hit the 10,000 barrier in attendance.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110126-hoops

[Durbansandshark]

CIS college basketball (and Simon Fraser) news will actually return next week with stuff from the previous few weeks due to my immense work schedule for the past two weeks that has me really busy racking up sales. That and the major snow and ice storm that hit much of the US, including where I'm at, that paralyzed things last week for a few days.

CIS basketball is gearing for conference play in Canada West, OUA, Quebec, and the AUS in a matter of days before the trips to Windsor and Halifax. So I'll cover them too.

[Durbansandshark]

For this week's contribution of CIS basketball, I will have to shorten things and save the rest that was wish I was working on the last few weeks for, hopefully, next week, like the annual MBNA Capital Hoops Classic between Carleton and Ottawa.

What I can say presently for the Canada West men is that the top six teams for the conference tournament are set with a couple still up for grabs. But let's go back a few weeks ago with the Canada West games scheduled back then. Trinity Western knocks off Saskatchewan while Fraser Valley and Regina play into double OT and play another nail baiter with that Cougars winning that. The Vikes add to the Brandon Bobcats' woes. Thomson Rivers earn a rare win. Saskatchewan and Trinity Western battle it out again, but the series doesn't really solve the supremacy issue. Alberta Golden Bears pummel a weak Winnipeg squad.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/28/MBB_0128111040.aspx
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/29/MBB_0129110401.aspx

Over in the Canada West women's game, the top eight teams now clinched their berths from Saskatchewan to Fraser Valley with the Huskies clinching first in the division. Here, a few weeks ago, Regina, Winnipeg, and Calgary all get important wins en route for qualification. Oh yeah, Brandon keeps on losing as visiting Victoria makes a mockery of their deficient talents. Meanwhile, the #1 Huskies do the same to Trinity Western. Manitoba's Kayla Klassen gets a memorable birthday with 24 points, including four 3s against the Lethbridge Pronghorns for the Bisons' win at home in Winnipeg.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/28/WBB_0128115417.aspx
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/29/WBB_0129112137.aspx

Waterloo Warriors men are nowhere as bad as the women...but they aren't a OUA beater. Nonetheless, they DO win sometimes, like against the Brock Badgers but later lose to the Guelph Gryphons. One OUA team that is emulating the success of their women's team is Windsor over Western Ontario, but they too lose a short time later to Brock. Wilfried Laurier also won. #1 Carleton depletes the Laurentian Voyaguers and then York. Ryerson does likewise to Queen's and later to RMC. The York Lions claims Ottawa in closer one. #10 Toronto emulates Carleton and Ryerson in a worse way to stay in second place in OUA East division. Then again, consider that is RMC, so it was a good day for the Toronto-area OUA schools in men's basketball. Lakehead catches up to Windsor as they defeat McMaster in a close one. Then the Ravens beat York. Ottawa edges Laurentian. Toronto gets upstaged by Queen's. Western Ontario lose out to Laurier.
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10660
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10663
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10674

Windsor continues their winning ways over Western Ontario and then Brock with big double doubles from Clemencon and Kovacevic in the latter as the Badgers had no answer for those two. Brock and Guelph both jump all over poor Waterloo, though in the Guelph game, the Warriors played their best game of the season, and the Warriors still lose. Laurier rebounds from their Lakehead loss and a short time later lose to Western Ontario. Ottawa and Toronto humbles their respective opponents. Then Ottawa loses to Laurentian in OT. Toronto shatters Queen's. Carleton wins their seventh and eigth consecutive. Lakehead moves to third in the OUA West with a couple of wins. Ryerson wins over Queen's in overtime thanks to Alexandrea Tkaczyk's six OT points and later RMC.
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10658
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10664
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10673

This will be it for now until Tuesday, I believe. I haven't got into the Quebec or AUS, much to my regret or the continuing Simon Fraser saga in the NCAA D2. One thing, I would mention to close is that we got another winless team in the women. And that is the University of Prince Edward Island Panthers in the AUS--0-18. Should there be a tournament to avoid the wooden spoon for this with those these teams (Brandon, Waterloo, and UPEI)?

[Durbansandshark]

Jeff Lukomski became the Regina Cougars' alltime leader scorer. But that was part the little good news for Regina in the weekend series against the British Columbia Thunderbirds with the Saturday one going into OT. Because UBC showed no mercy to the Cougars. Saskatchewan continues their winning ways over fellow Canada West playoff bound team Alberta led by Jamelle Barrett. So does Trinity Western in theirs versus Brandon, including a Saturday game setting a school record for least amount of points allowed, as the top three leading teams in Canada West maintain their winning streaks. Victoria escapes Thompson Rivers by 2 and won by more the next day. UFV split with Winnipeg, a team that has no shot of being the top 8, but the Cascades are still in the hunt in theirs. Calgary Dinos' conference postseason prospects take a dim turn in a battle with another team struggling for the playoffs in Manitoba, despite a weekend split.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/4/MBB_0204110233.aspx
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/5/MBB_0205110526.aspx

Saskatchewan Huskies women clearly show why they are ranked #1 in the CIS Canadian women's game since getting that spot. It's starting to look like possibly the Bronze Baby could stay within the Canada West region if they at least go all the way to the final in Windsor, Ontario. Trinity Western women hung tough with the Huskies in the first quarter. However that was it as the Huskies dominated after that. Then the Huskies got Calgary's number. Victoria shuts down beleaguered Brandon, who are still at the wrong end of the Canada West standings. Bobcats' Kelly Solarchuk scored almost a third of Brandon's points total. Trinity Western finally found someone to defeat in Brandon led by Tiffany Olsen, Corina Renner, and Holly Strom. Calgary fights for a spot with sweeping wins against Thompson Rivers Wolfpack, again not much better than the men. Tamara Jarrett ususally scores 24 points that would guarantee a win for Manitoba. But in the subsequent weekend, she had to share with Ashley Hill, the Dinos' lone fifth-year senior in a must-win weekend for Calgary. TRU later earn a rare win against a perhaps bored Victoria team and made history with a home sweep over Victoria. Lethbridge Pronghorns, with no postseason to look forward to this year, coped with another set of weekend losses. This time to Manitoba. Second in the standings at the time, Winnipeg played and swept Fraser Valley with the first game going to OT. Regina blasts away UBC as Gabrielle Gheyssen notched up six 3s for the win. Thunderbird Zara Huntley had a double double until foul trouble forced her out for most of the second half and had a better performance the next day. Winnipeg does short work on UFV.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/1/29/WBB_0129112137.aspx
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/4/WBB_0204110455.aspx
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/5/WBB_0205110940.aspx



Calgary's Ashley Hill and Saskatchewan's Jamelle Barrett win Canada West's Athlete of the Week honors.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/8/CW_0208113718.aspx

Furthermore, the #1 Huskies hono(u)red their legendary former All-Canadian star Sarah Crooks. All this emerging from a basketball camp from which, while displaying a solid work ethic, she admitted she was not polished. A college basketball career wasn't something Sarah thought of until Grade 12.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/4/WBB_0204112040.aspx

Saskatchewan very much wrapped up the division and the top seed in the Canada West women's postseason. British Columbia has done likewise in the men's game. Both are enjoying double-digit winning streaks.

Over in Ontario, in the interests of gender equity in the basketball playoffs, the new men's format was announced in a press conference signifying the top teams in the East and West will play in early March in a Final Four-style semifinal for the OUA Wilson Cup hosted at McMaster's Burridge Gymnasium in Hamilton following the men's basketball playoffs starting actually tomorrow and through Saturday evening. Also, the Score will have the OUA semis and finals nationally televised for the first time since 2004.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10701

Toronto wins a OT thriller over city rivals Ryerson. #10 Wilifried Laurier goes down in an upset by Western Ontario. Scott Laws hits a three pointer with under a minute to go to propell a win against Waterloo. Brock got two in a row over Guelph. Toronto later wins against another cross-city rival, York. Lakehead, Carleton, Ottawa, and Ryerson all were winners Friday night. #2 Windsor and Guelph played a rescheduled game due to the winter weather with the Windsor Lancers winning far and away with a couple of seniors leading the way. It leads the next link of games (mostly men) that were postponed.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10702
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10716


www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10692

[Durbansandshark]

Though the #6 Carleton Ravens women aren't as dominant as their male counterparts, they are certainly making a name for themselves not just in the OUA but across the CIS. And they showed that against the perrenially weak RMC as they remain tops in the OUA East Division ahead of Toronto. Wilfried Laurier goes strong for the second half to win over Western Ontario. Brock gets a three-way tie for third in the OUA West Division thanks to a Guelph escape. Jackie Nimec produced 16 points and 10 rebounds to get McMasters beat Waterloo for their fourth win. Ryerson adds a fifth game to their winning streak against Laurentian. Toronto keeps pace with Carleton by winning their home game derby against the York Lions in another chapter of the city rivalry with the game going back and forth after the first quarter.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10703

Western Ontario gets upset by the Brock Badgers, who later beats McMaster. Western later gets back on track with Rebecca Moss and Beckie Williams each raining four three- pointers to win over Guelph. But not before getting into foul trouble in the fourth as a team. Ryerson earns an easy game to their winning streak with RMC then lose to Guelph. Carleton gets their 15th straight by being victorious (in a close match) versus Laurentian. York Lions' woes continue when Ottawa and the Carleton Ravens hand them further losses. In their longest road trip, the Gee Gees play well in spite of the strain of the road against Laurentian. Toronto wins again on Queen's and RMC. Windsor plays outstanding over Laurier. A whopping 33 points and 22 rebounds from Lakehead's Lindsay Drury helped keep the Waterloo Warriors winless.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10727
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10734

The next day on Sunday, #2 Windsor Lancers win convincingly in a rescheduled game against McMaster at the their home of the St. Denis Centre, showing why they're a Bronze Baby contender.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10737

...and later show no mercy whatsoever on both ends of the floor to awful Waterloo as they regain first place of the OUA East. Laurier keeps their place in the three-way dogfight for third in the OUA East. The Western Ontario Mustangs dominate the rebounds.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10752

Wilfried Laurier Hawks win again after falling short to the Windsor Lancers topping the McMaster Marauders.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10768

More regular season results will arrive next week. But tonight in Ontario, both the men's and women's OUA conference tournaments starts. Top four teams in each division earn byes into the quarterfinals:

WOMEN'S:
#6 York Lions @ #3 Ottawa Gee Gees (Wednesday)
#6 Guelph Gryphons @ #3 Wilfried Laurier Golden Hawks (Wednesday)
#4 Queen's Gaels @ #5 Ryerson Rams (Wednesday)
#4 Lakehead Thunderwolves @ #5 Brock Badgers (Wednesday)

MEN'S:
#5 York Lions @ #4 Ryerson Rams (Wednesday)
#6 Laurentian Voyaguers @ #3 Ottawa Gee Gees (Wednesday)
#5 Western Ontario Mustangs @ #4 McMaster (Wednesday)
#6 Guelph Gryphons @ #3 Wilfried Laurier Golden Hawks (Wednesday)

I'll get the Canada West wrapup next week with results from the conference tournament and Simon Fraser's D2 saga. Including more across Canada, not just CIS.

Over in the AUS, seven schools out of the eight in the conference get to go for the Subway 2011 men's basketball conference championship in Halifax. The eight are St. Francis Xavier X-Men, Dalhousie Tigers, Cape Breton Capers, UNB Varsity Reds, UPEI Panthers, Acadia Axemen, and the Saint Mary's Huskies. The women's teams are UNB, Cape Breton, St. Francis Xavier X-Women, Memorial Sea Hawks, Acadia Axewomen, and Saint Mary's. The women's tournament will commence at Memorial University. All Atlantic University Sport basketball will come soon as I write upon the tournaments.

Quebec's regular basketball season is winding down this week with #4 seed Laval facing #1 seed McGill squaring off in Montreal in the first women's semifinal the following week. UQAM and Concordia will be in the other semifinal. The men's semifinalists are Concordia, Laval, McGill, and UQAM with the latter two serving as the visitors for next week.

[Durbansandshark]

Must catch up with the Canada West now that that conference has made it to the conference tournament and actually into the Canada West Final Four.

#3 Saskatchewan Huskies pull away early against the home Regina Cougars and never let up to score in the hundreds. Nolan Brudehl had 8 points with 10 rebounds with his Saskatchewan teammates Duncan Jones producing 21 points under 17 minutes to lead everyone in the game. Rejean Chabot had 17 points, and Jamelle Barrett had 17 points. Regina's Jeff Lukomski led the Cougars with 14 points. Both teams however were assured of making it to the Canada West tournament at this point.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/10/MBB_0210113938.aspx

#2 UBC and #4 Trinity Western both score 101 points in their respective victories on the same Friday night. The Thunderbirds win convincingly in theirs even when having their difficulties around Thompson Rivers' 7-2 Greg Stewart, who going off on both ends. TWU meanwhile got their school-record 20th straight win in Winnipeg propelled by Jason Doersken and Calvin Westbrook to stay on top of the division. Alberta wins to keep their dream of home court postseason play alive in another chapter of the Alberta rivalry with Calgary. Winnipeg wins in a meaningless, when it comes to the postseason prospects for both teams, game that was another saga in the Manitoba school's rivalry with Brandon, so that both teams go 4-17. Lowly Lethbridge Pronghorns kept their mathematically slim postseason chances alive after it recovered from an early swoon over Fraser Valley to ultimately win.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/11/MBB_0211115934.aspx

Alberta Golden Bears make things worse for the Calgary Dinos for the latter's postseason chances with Jason Baker's double double. The top three teams in the Canada West division--Trinity Western, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan--continue to roll. Fraser Valley Cascades played with urgency to split the weekend split with Lethbridge. The Thunderbirds got a first round matchup at home. Winnipeg wins the weekend series versus the Bobcats.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/12/MBB_0212112246.aspx

At the low end of the Canada West division, Lethbridge and Winnipeg play to a thrilling overtime game with the Pronghorns winning their seventh over the Wesmen in their first game of their final regular season weekend series for both teams. UFV wins a crucial one to move up to the eight and final spot for the Canada West men's tournament against the weak Brandon Bobcats. Victoria kept it close in the beginning but ultimately let national powerhouse, and by then regular season champs, UBC take over. Regina and Saskatchewan win as the #3 Huskies out-gunned the Dinos as those two teams scored a combined 119 second half points. Despite the urgency displayed in the game against the Cougars, Calgary's further losses placed their tournament hopes on extremely thin ice and in need of serious help with the UFV Cascades keep winning.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/18/MBB_0218112828.aspx

The only things you need to know about the final day of Canada West regular season men's play lies in the fact that the playoff spots and seeds were determined. #3 Saskatchewan Huskies officially put the kibosh on the Calgary Dinos' faint playoff hopes, effectively ending them with the win. Canada West scoring champ Jamelle Barrett nearly had a triple double in this. Fraser Valley clinches a playoff berth as the seventh seed beating Brandon, who should at least be thankful not to be in last place like Thompson Rivers. #2 British Columbia sticks it to Victoria again in the BC capital on Vancouver Island to go for their 20th straight win. It was senior night in Regina, Saskatchewan for the four fifth-year seniors like Jeff Lukomski with his team-high 24 points when the Cougars took on and defeated Manitoba. Eric Garcia tied the 24 points. Other Cougar fifth year players Richard Reimer and Kevin Oliver scored in double figures. Despite the loss though, the Manitoba Bison managed to get the eight and last Canada West playoff spot with the Calgary loss.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/19/MBB_0219115049.aspx

So the eight-team men's Canada West postseason field goes like this:

#1 British Columbia Thunderbirds vs. #8 Manitoba Bison
#2 Trinity Western Spartans vs. #7 University of Fraser Valley Cascades
#3 Saskatchewan Huskies vs. #6 Regina Cougars
#4 Alberta Golden Bears vs. #5 Victoria Vikes

In the Canada West quarterfinals, the format is a best-of-three. with the subsequent rounds single elimination. Two Canada West teams will make it to Halifax later this new month with those slots for the finalists and one possible additional at-large bid in the Final 8 Nationals.

Right now, it's been this:

Fraser Valley 81 Trinity Western 80; Alberta 76 Victoria 59:
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/24/MBB_0224115718.aspx
Victoria 85 Alberta 79; UBC 105 Manitoba 76; Saskatchewan 98 Regina 75; Trinity Western 86 Fraser Valley 69:
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/25/MBB_0225115626.aspx

UBC 103 Manitoba 85; Saskatchewan 92 Regina 75; Trinity Western 89 Fraser Valley 75; Alberta 86 Victoria 79:
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/26/MBB_0226115250.aspx

The Canada West Final Four field is all set after these games. UBC will host these games at their War Memorial Gym. The Thunderbirds will host Trinity Western, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. Also, UBC plays on Friday versus Alberta with Trinity Western and Saskatchewan playing in the other. The bronze medal and championship games will both take place on Saturday.

[Durbansandshark]

Carleton Ravens took their #1 ranking in Canada and got out of it against Laurentian with an 18-game winning streak. Andrew Warsik and Anthony Di Giorgio help Toronto to be one win away from a first-round playoff bye at the OUA East playoffs like Carleton. Ryerson takes it out on poor RMC with Jamahl Jones shooting 91.7 percent from the floor hauling 29 points. Warren Ward leads the Ottawa Gee Gees with a double double of 26 points and 10 rebounds to win taking over from the York Lions who controlled everything during the first quarter and having a nine-point lead, starting from the second. York had Stephen Hayes leading everyone with 28 points while Kenneth Buchanan was second on the team with 12 points. The Ottawa-York game was close at some points, especially during the third quarter. The Gee Gees, however, held off in the fourth.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10728

York comes out scathed from the Ottawa doomsday double. Four Ryerson players scored in double figures for the Rams' win against Queen's to take sole possession of fourth in the OUA East. Ottawa goes above .500 for the first time this season with another win in the week. Andrew Westermire was just excellent at both ends of the floor for Western Ontario--and so was the team--playing victorious over Guelph. Jaime Searle hits six threes for the Lakehead Thunderwolves as they had play scrappy with Waterloo. Toronto Varsity Blues' four players scored in double digits of their own. But considering their opponent happened to be RMC, it was very easy to do so. Brock Badgers' shooting goes ice cold at the most inopportune time to eventually lose in a heartbreaker to McMaster with a playoff spot on the line, their third straight loss. The Windsor men get back on track after three consecutive losses.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10733

Enrico Diloreto was like Superman for Windsor. He had 30 points for the Lancers when they won their second straight to top Waterloo at home in the St. Denis Centre. At the end of the first quarter, the Lancers had a one point lead. But come the second half, the Lancers just blew it out after began building a momentum-building lead in the second quarter. Lien Phillips was a "monster" on the boards with 17 rebounds. McMaster made sure, despite the Mustangs coming roaring back in the second quarter, that Western Ontario didn't even try to win like with their outshooting in the third. Kareem Malcolm's layup with 18 seconds to go at home versus Laurier gave the Guelph Gryphons the victory. That game was a game of rallies until the fourth quarter, when both teams traded baskets with neither team wanting to separate.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10751

Brock's loss to McMaster prompted an apparent hangover. Their next game resulted in another loss. This time to Guelph, still on a high with the win against Wilfried Laurier, even with the Badgers having four of its players in double figures. After a slow start for both squads, the Windsor Lancers holds off a pesky McMaster team at home during senior night by converting their free throws and displaying tight team defense. Laurier sticks it to the their crosstown rivals to put an end to the Golden Hawks' three-game losing streak to lock up third place in the OUA East.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10779

#1 Carleton Ravens finish off their regular season by beating Ottawa again, going a perfect 22-0. So what else is new for them? Ryerson one-ups Toronto in another chapter of the city rivalry. Toronto native Ryan McNeilly enjoyed 27 points, including draining six consecutive 3s, as they overcame a 12-point deficit. Queen's scores at least 20 points until the fourth and final quarter against RMC. Lakehead goes back and forth to win against Western Ontario, but the Mustangs, on senior night the next night, came back to avenge. York Lions utilizes their offensive weaponry to come back and win against Laurentian. Brock closes out their disappointing season with a win and no postseason for the third consecutive time after winning it all in 2008. Waterloo Warriors win with a buzzer beater against McMaster for a three-way tie with Guelph and Brock. But Guelph wins with the tiebreaker in the games played between the three teams (3-1 for the Gryphons). Windsor takes care of business in Guelph with a bye to the semifinals already in their pockets.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10797
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10798

OUA Divisional First Round:
Western Ontario 78 McMaster 67
Ryerson 80 York 70
Ottawa 83 Laurentian 77
Wifried Laurier 80 Guelph 72
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10816

OUA Quarterfinals:
Carleton 97 Ryerson 73
Wilfried Laurier 85 Windsor 82
Ottawa 85 Toronto 60
Lakehead 63 Western Ontario 49
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/index.html?article_id=10841

So the OUA Men's Wilson Cup Final Four is now set for the weekend. With Ottawa going to Lakehead and Carleton taking on Laurier at home. The Wilson Cup championship is Saturday.

[Durbansandshark]

Congrats to St. Mary's Huskies and CIS scoring leader Joey Haywood on breaking the Atlantic University Sports men's single season scoring record with 551 through 19 games at the time. Haywood scored 30 in the Huskies' win over the Acadia Axemen, moving past Acadia's Teddy Upshaw (521) and Donnie Ehler (522) and UPEI's Curtis Robinson (522).
www.atlanticuniversitysport.com/news/news_story.php?news_id=1506

Being the top teams in the women's AUS game, New Brunswick Varsity Reds and Cape Breton Capers earn semifinal byes as they await the winners from the St. Mary's-St. Francis Xavier and the Memorial-Acadia matches that take place on Friday night at Memorial's gym. Also playing Friday night, the Halifax Metro Centre will have a dress rehearsal of sorts for the return of the men's Final 8 with the men's AUS tournament. UNB plays against Acadia in the first game with St. Mary's facing off St. Francis-Xavier in the men's version of the AUS quarterfinals. Cape Breton and Dalhousie have bye to the semis to face the winners on Saturday. Both AUS championships are on Sunday.

In the Quebec semifinals, the home teams win out. The Concordia Stingers win over the defending Quebec champs, the UQAM Citadins, 89-74. Meanwhile, the Laval Rouge Et D'Or beats the McGill Redmen 85-75. Friday is the date for the final. In the Quebec women, where both games are tomorrow, the defending Quebec champs Laval travels down the St. Lawrence River to face McGill, and Concordia visits UQAM.

[Durbansandshark]

March Madness, Canadian style! Catch it!

Mallory Kohlmeier puts on a show in one of her final regular season games as the offensively potent Golden Hawks leading with her career-high and game-high 21 points in the victory from, you guessed it, winless Waterloo. Wilfried Laurier scored a season-high of 92 and shot from the field 53.6%. After scoring more than twice of the Warriors' 15 points in the first quarter (32), the Golden Hawks shut Waterloo down the rest of the way. McMaster just couldn't contain, if at all, the #2 Windsor Lancers frontcourt potency of duo Jessica Clemencon and Raelyn Prince, both of whom dominated the paint on their home court. After dominating through three quarters, the Lancers cruised the rest of the way. With the win in their final regular season home game, Windsor maintain their lead in the OUA West Division with a 19-2 record and a 12-game winning streak. Brock Badgers had five players in double figures, including Whitney George who led everyone in the game with 24 points, to defeat visiting Guelph at the Bob Davis Gymnasium. With just five minutes left in the first quarter, Brock had a 9-7 lead but then pulled away for good by putting together a 24-7 run in the second and had a 42-23 lead after 20 minutes to which they never gave up.
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10778

Coming into the following Friday, York and Laurentian faced off together as the prospective sixth seeds for the OUA East divisional playoffs with the York Lions holding the upper hand. York confirmed that by winning over Laurentian that clinched that playoff spot for the first time in three years and eliminating the Voyaguers from the playoffs. Brittany Szockyj (17 points) and Nadia Qahwash (14 points, same as teammate Emily Perras) passed the ball back and forth to each other, pushing the ball up the court for several baskets for the Lions. Once thought to be dead for the game and the postseason, Laurentian somehow possessed a sense of urgency and fought back, in spite of its low team shooting, ultimately narrowing the gap to a two-point York lead. However they couldn't convert a missed layup to send the game into OT as time expired when York's Llyandra Kerr recovered the ball and held on in the dying seconds to seal the win. #6 Toronto Varsity Blues wins the latest match against cross-city rival Ryerson to finish the regular season at home tied for first place in OUA East Division at 18-4 with the Carleton Ravens, as the Varsity Blues await the result of the latest edition of the Ottawa derby of Carleton and Ottawa the next night for seeding and the division. Regardless, Toronto gets a first-round bye in the OUA East Divisional playoffs. Queen's Hanna Koposhynska scores her second double double of the season and Brittany Moore nets her season high of 27 points leading the Gaels, who in this punched their ticket to the playoffs in fifth place in the OUA East, to dump RMC to close out their regular season.
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10789

The Gee Gees women focused on boxing out and rebounding for a week in preparation of the arrival of their heated Carleton Ravens in the final game of the regular season. They never forgot that deep double overtime loss to the Ravens at the MNBA Capital Hoops Classic at the Scotiabank Place approximately a month ago from that. In front of a packed crowd at the Montpetit Hall during senior night and despite a dreary beginning and going into overtime again, the garnet and grey won it this time. Fourth-year uOttawa's Jenna Gilbert saved the day with her free throws and and three pointers in overtime. Neither McMaster nor Waterloo were going to make it to the postseason. Poor Waterloo Warriors. McMaster finally put an end to the woes of such a deeply dismal season for the Waterloo women. The Mauraders began with a big lead and ended with a big lead; the gap would grow to a 40+ margin thanks to McMaster's defense. No Warrior scored in double figures, even in the face of discovering their short-lived scoring touch in the second quarter, but Sabrina Braithwaite hauled a game-high 11 rebounds. #2 Windsor's size advantage put Guelph into serious foul trouble, and Windsor thus extended their lead as the visiting Lancers extended their regular season winning streak to 13 to go 20-2 overall and solidify first the OUA West. Even in the third, Windsor had a major lead with both the Lancers and the Gryphons traded baskets. Jessica Clemencon led everyone with 20 points and 12 rebounds. Teammates Bojana Kovacevic scored 16, and Miah Maria Langois added 15 to go with her six assists. In another western Ontario battle, Western Ontario made mince meat out of Lakehead, shining during senior night with the Mustangs' stifling defense forcing the Thunderwolves take difficult shots. Matteke Huntzler, the lone senior on Western Ontario, led her team with 17 points and 11 rebounds, including five offensive rebounds. Laurier gets an important win versus Brock as the two teams entered the game tied for third place in the OUA East Division in time for the playoffs to finish their best season in six years. But both teams shot 34.4% from the field. They would later meet again.
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10796

OUA women's Playoff time!

Ryerson 62 Queen's 52
Wilfried Laurier 73 Guelph 47
Ottawa 67 York 53
Lakehead 85 Brock 80
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10815

University of Toronto hosts the OUA East Final Four starring Carleton, Ottawa, Toronto, and Ryerson. It's nothing but Ottawa and Toronto in this set! That's assured in the OUA East final!
Carleton vs. Ottawa
Toronto vs. Ryerson
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10818

In addition to hosting the CIS Final 8 women in a matter of weeks, Windsor gets to host the OUA West Final Four playing with Western Ontario, Lakehead, and Laurier. Nice little dress rehearsal as the #2 Lancers also get to play in the Bronze Baby sweepstakes, regardless of what happens there at the St. Denis Centre.
Lakehead vs. Windsor
Wilfried Laurier vs. Western Ontario
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10824

Carleton's strong fourth quarter propels them to victory against Ottawa
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10833

Windsor dismantles the Thunderwolves with an impressive first half performances from its stars
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10834

After two close regular season games that both ended up unfavorably, Wilfried Laurier finally gets one on #3 Western Ontario this year. Stunning the Mustangs in the OUA West semis.
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10835

Sherri Pierce leads the Blues to beat the Rams
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10836

uOttawa wins for third place in the OUA East division over Ryerson. Next they travel to London, Ontario to play against the Western Ontario Mustangs, who defeated Lakehead in their OUA West third place game, for fifth place in the OUA.
http://oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10843

[Durbansandshark]

#1 Saskatchewan continue their winning ways by hold off the at-home #4 Regina Cougars and their huge fourth quarter surge. That game granted a chance for the Huskies to control their own destiny at the top of the Canada West women's basketball standings. Huskie Jill Humpert led everyone with 19 points and 5 steals.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/10/WBB_0210113307.aspx

UFV closes the gap on declining Calgary, that were in the playoff picture at the time, to one game for the Cascades' playoff lives with an important win on the road at Lethbridge. Courtney Bethel led the way with her 22 points for Fraser Valley. Then on the next day, Fraser Valley managed to get sole possession of the eight and final playoff spot, sending the Pronghorns to six consecutive losses. As the only Pronghorn in double figures in points, Hannah Blanchette had 13 points in her second double double of the season with her 14 rebounds. Winnipeg and Brandon rekindled their old rivalry once again with the Wesmen out on top again in the weekend series. Manitoba and Trinity Western came down to the wire until the home Bison won out in both weekend games. UBC's Alex Vieweg and Lia St. Pierre help keep the Thompson Rivers Wolfpack in check with their combined 34 points on Friday, and their teammates, like Arianny Duchense needing only six shots to score 15 points in her sharpshooting clinic, took care of the rest on Saturday. Vieweg added a second double double for the weekend with 19 points and 11 boards. TRU's Jen Ju led everybody in scoring on Saturday with 21. Alberta Pandas go one step closer to, and later booked on the following night, a home playoff series in Edmonton with two crucial wins, this time to declining Calgary. Marisa Haylet banked a game-high 28 points. Saskatchewan clinches first place in the Canada West.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/11/WBB_0211110118.aspx
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/12/WBB_0212110102.aspx

On Shoot For the Cure Night, Victoria drops a big one against the Thunderbirds at home and the next one. Carly Graham comes off the bench to grab her first double double of her career for #5 Regina's home win over Manitoba. On the next one, Regina score 18 consecutive points as they furiously did during a six-minute span between the third and fourth quarters. #1 Saskatchewan Huskies maintain their winning ways and keep the Calgary Dinos down in an important one for their fading playoff hopes and never recover. The Huskies win their 22nd straight after losing their first two, and, afterwards, they took the Dinos with them to Saskatoon. #9 Winnipeg win their 19th and 20th of the season in their final regular weekend series against Lethbridge. Fraser Valley sweeps winless Brandon to finish out their respective seasons with the former gaining the seventh seed in the Canada West playoffs.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/18/WBB_0218110210.aspx
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/19/WBB_0219111819.aspx

Canada West playoff time!

Alberta Golden Pandas edges the Thunderbirds in OT in Game 1
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/24/WBB_0224115846.aspx

Alberta 73 British Columbia 60 (Alberta wins series)
Saskatchewan 76 Calgary 68
Regina 66 Victoria 55
Fraser Valley 77 Winnipeg 63
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/25/WBB_0225114521.aspx

Big shock in Canada West! Fraser Valley upsets the Winnipeg Wesmen to win their series as the seventh seed! Saskatchewan and Regina also win theirs.
Fraser Valley 77 Winnipeg 64
Saskatchewan 75 Calgary 64
Regina 70 Victoria 67
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/2/26/WBB_0226112714.aspx

And the number one team in the whole Canada West, Saskatchewan, hosts the Canada West Final Four women's tournament on their campus gym.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/3/2/WBB_0302112622.aspx

Laval 72 McGill 58
www.rougeetor.ulaval.ca/les_clubs/basketball/nouvelles/nouvelle/index.html?&tx_ttnews[tt_news]=8055&tx_ttnews[backPid]=120&cHash=b2b34a1cd9
www.mcgill.ca/athletics/newsroom/spotlight/item/?item_id=172310

UQAM 65 Concordia 54
www.sports.uqam.ca/citadins/nouvelles/index.php?news=1018

Saturday: Laval @ UQAM (Quebec championship)
www.nouvelles.uqam.ca/par-categories/sports/item/1599-basketball-feminin-les-citadins-affronteront-le-rouge-et-or-en-finale-.html

Laval have been here before and won it several times in recent years to represent Quebec in the Final 8. It was supposed to be a down year for the Rouge Et D'Or with several fifth-year players having moved on from last season, but they're peaking at the right time. Montreal versus Quebec City in the final.

[Durbansandshark]

More on the conference tournaments later this week north of my border in Canada. But just to let you know, Laval Rouge Et D'Or women's basketball team (www.rougeetor.ulaval.ca/les_clubs/basketball/fminin/athltes/?&id=752) once again won the RSEQ Quebec title. This time over UQAM in a battle of the Belle Province. Though it's all in French.
www.rougeetor.ulaval.ca/les_clubs/basketball/nouvelles/nouvelle/index.html?&tx_ttnews[tt_news]=8055&tx_ttnews[backPid]=120&cHash=b2b34a1cd9

Meanwhile in the RSEQ men's title game, the Concordia Stingers beat Laval 77-67 in a capacity home crowd at Concordia's gym Friday night to be the RSEQ representatives in the Final 8 in Halifax. Don't worry this one's in English.
http://athletics.concordia.ca/sports/news/Newnews.php?f=detail&news_id=486&start=0&sportype=MB

[Durbansandshark]

There's been plenty of stuff that occurred last weekend (and catch up with some details) that I will get to during CIS ball including a major upset in Ontario. But first...

Ah yeah, The fifth annual MBNA Capital Hoops Classic in Ottawa was a thrilling experience at the ScotiaBank Place in mid-January. If you're the Carleton Ravens, that is. The jewel in the crown in the CIS calendar for Ottawa college basketball between the two rivals Carleton and Ottawa was just a Ravens sweep. By CIS basketball standards, the ScotiaBank Place attendance for the games was pretty good. The undercard of the double header, the women's Carleton-Ottawa game, surprisingly was the most thrilling with theirs going into double overtime with the Ravens prevailing! The Ravens men, number one in the country, had a slow start with the Gee Gees taking chanrge from the beginning, but Carleton soon showed why they're #1.
http://goravens.carleton.ca/mens-basketball-news/ravens-sweep-fifth-annual-mbna-capital-hoops-classic/
http://goravens.carleton.ca/womens-basketball-news/ravens-win-fifth-annual-mbna-capital-hoops-classic-in-overtime/
http://goravens.carleton.ca/mens-basketball-news/ravens-claim-fourth-straight-capital-hoops-classic-over-gee-gees/

Video highlights:
Men's game highlights: www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpZywajyI80
Ravens' Red Zone Fans celebrating and dancing: www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkIp30lPmi0
www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5BByhQPTTE
www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmhG3BbAy_E
Ottawa's shooting guard Emilie Cyr postgame interview (in French, she's from Montreal, this comes from jet7basket.com, but I've included it anyway): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6RxsgY2FgI

Couldn't find any women's game footage on YouTube, but I'll post it here after I find it.

Jamelle Barrett from Rancho Cardovo, California had an outstanding season for the defending champs, the #3 Saskatchewan Huskies. For leading the Canada West in points, assists, and steals, a first in the conference, he wins the Canada West men's basketball MVP this season. Thompson Rivers had another dismal season, but Greg Stewart was indeed a bright spot for the Wolfpack, and the 7-2 two-time Defensive Player of the Year plays with a missing arm below his left elbow. Calgary Dinos finished the season just short on the wrong end of the top eight in the Canada West tournament line, but the Rookie of the Year Matt Letkemann earns can act as a vote of confidence for next season and the next three. UBC's Kevin Hanson wins his second consecutive Coach of the Year, his fifth overall. Kevin Doerksen highlights a banner season for the Trinity Western Spartans with another appearance for the All-CW First Team. His teammate Tyrell Mara wins the Ken Shields Award as the best student-athlete. Other hono(u)rs are mentioned at this website:
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/3/4/MBB_0304114049.aspx
www.gothunderbirds.ca/news/2011/3/4/BBALLM_0304114534.aspx

The British Columbia Thunderbirds are seemingly unstoppable at their Vancouver campus gym, the War Memorial Gym, even when they're hosting the Canada West Final Four this past weekend. Still hungry after losing back to back Final 8 title games in the last two years, UBC qualifies for another trip to the Final 8, this time back in Halifax, with a Canada West semifinal win over the Alberta Golden Bears and another CW title game. Kamar Burke hauled a game high 13 rebounds. Josh Whyte led the way for UBC with 21 points, five assists, and 11 rebounds. Melvyn Mayotte was another of the five in all Thunderbirds in double figures with 13 points. Alberta's Robinson had 30 points in a losing cause with Jordan Baker going 3-for-12 with just 8 points. #3 Saskatchewan Huskies won theirs with their deadly duo of Jamelle Barrett and Rejean Chabot storming back in the fourth quarter after being down by Trinity Western's 11 points to win 80-78, with those two scoring 8 of the final points of the game. Even after two early fouls, Jacob Doerksen produced for 30 points for the Spartans. But it all for naught with their miracle shot to win going off in the final seconds.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/3/4/MBB_0304115040.aspx
www.gothunderbirds.ca/news/2011/3/4/BBALLM_0304112205.aspx

UBC's fifth-year seniors came through in the Canada West championship game on their home court Saturday night. But Barrett and Chabot from the defending champions Saskatchewan didn't make it easy though. What made the difference was the fact that the Thunderbirds nailed their free throws (37 out of 40) to assure the Huskies comeback would fall short. On their road to national glory, the Huskies beat UBC for the national title, but the Thunderbirds have the momentum. A big momentum. Make that a 25-game winning one. Meanwhile, Trinity Western joins the Thunderbirds and the Huskies in their trip to Halifax this coming weekend by winning the Canada West bronze medal game over the Alberta Golden Bears.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/3/5/MBB_0305112845.aspx
www.gothunderbirds.ca/news/2011/3/6/BBALLM_0306114258.aspx

General information regarding the OUA Wilson Cup Final Four men's basketball at Hamilton's McMaster University's Burridge Gymnasium.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10857

#1 Carleton Ravens just dominates all the accolades and awards in the Ontario University Athletics' men's basketball field, such as four out of the five major ones. No further explanations needed.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10858

Now, here's where we got the major news shocker in CIS basketball. But to tease you a little bit, we got to go where it started in it. Venzal Russell scored a bucket with just 0.9 seconds left in the game for the Lakehead Thunderwolves, out of Thunder Bay, Ontario, hence the name, to win over the Ottawa Gee Gees 71-69. Their win not only denies another possible rematch with Carleton but also gives the Thunderwolves, the OUA West champs, their first-ever trip to the 94th OUA Wilson Cup title game. Lakehead had a comfortable 42-29 lead at the half only to see it evaporate up to the fourth quarter with uOttawa roaring back to tie it, and then had a two-point lead.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10862

The three-time straight reigning OUA Wilson Cup champs, the Carleton Ravens, continued their unbeaten ways in both the conference and tournament play this season when they advanced to their fifth straight OUA Wilson Cup appearance, which seems like an expected rite of passage for the Ravens. Freshman and OUA East Rookie of the Year Philipp Scrubb amassed 23 points for the Ravens to beat comfortably the surprising Wilfried Laurier Golden Hawks. Tyson Hinz produced 18 points and 11 rebounds for Carleton. Carleton and Laurier matched each other shot by shot in the early going. Actually, the Golden Hawks outscored the Ravens up until the fourth quarter when the Ravens gained the upper hand. OUA West All-Star First Team Kale Harrison led the way with 26 points for Laurier.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10863

Here comes the big shock: Carleton comes into OUA Wilson Cup title game as the champs for the last three years and ranked first in the nation undefeated. The Ravens started out shooting but the Thunderwolves, in the OUA for over 20 years, soon found their rhythm and led by a point at halftime. Come the third quarter, the Thunderwolves raining shots to narrowly get a margin. In the third the Thunderwolves produced 31 points in a game the Ravens largely kept in check to lift Lakehead University over Carleton to win their first ever OUA Wilson Cup title and against a juggernaut like Carleton. As for Carleton, this first loss of the season shouldn't really be big deal; they have made it to the CIS Final 8 Nationals anyway with their semifinal win over Wilfried Laurier. If anything, the Ravens should refocus to reclaim the CIS national title in Halifax. Lakehead's Jaime Searle was named Porter Player of the Game and the Keith Macpherson Trophy thanks to his game-high 23 points, including his 14 in the fourth.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/mbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10865

[Durbansandshark]

The 2010-11 AUS men's basketball awards and All-Stars
www.atlanticuniversitysport.com/news/news_story.php?news_id=1511

The Subway Atlantic University men's championship in Halifax does not reseed following the quarterfinal round. Anyway, here is where you can get some info regarding the AUS Final 6 with info on the schools, box scores, webcasts, and stats.
www.atlanticuniversitysport.com/final6/

The AUS men's final was capped and will be best remembered for the shocking thumping from the Dalhousie Tigers on the young but talented Acadia Axemen 78-47. Acadia, if you recall back in 2007, pulled an overtime upset in the National semifinals in Ottawa against the Carleton Ravens at Carleton's stomping grounds. The overall play in the AUS surely had something for everybody who like upsets, high-octane offense, and pressing defense in its quality of play that could be tough to match in the Final 8 this weekend...if more attended.
http://thechronicleherald.ca/Sports/1231704.html

The big story people, like the Cape Breton Capers, are still wondering is how could the Cape Breton Capers, seemingly anointed to become the AUS champs after dominating the conference this season and nabbing the #1 seed and bye to the semis? They could've have joined the women in playing in the Final 8 (more on that later). The game was a close against Acadia Saturday night.

#5 Acadia Axemen 81 #4 UNB Varsity Reds 61
#6 St. Mary's Huskies 93 #3 St. Francis Xavier X-Men 111

#5 Acadia Axemen 83 #1 Cape Breton Capers 81
#2 Dalhousie Tigers 79 #3 St. Francis Xavier X-Men 68

AUS Championship
#2 Dalhousie Tigers 78 #5 Acadia Axemen 47

Both Dalhousie and Acadia stay in Halifax, it seems, for the Final 8 as the AUS reps.

The RSEQ semis news last Tuesday of Concordia and Laval being winners:
http://english.cis-sic.ca/sports/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110301-recap

The best team in all of Ontario women's college basketball, if not quite or necessarily all of Canada, the Windsor Lancers, had to put all of their might to come out victorious in the two games after beating Lakehead. But for their first game for the OUA West title, Laurier stayed with them up until the end like fighting back in the third quarter after the Lancers extended their lead to 15 in the second. Coach Vallee poured on the offense and tightened the D afterwards. Windsor's Jessica Clemencon had a lower key performance this time. Hometown girl Bojana Kovacevic was a little better, but it was Miah Langois who was outstanding in her 16 points 10 rebounds and 6 assists for Windsor. Windsor earns the hosting duties for the OUA women's title.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10845

The fast-rising Carleton Ravens women confirmed their OUA elite status by upsetting the Toronto Varsity Blues in Toronto. Kicking off as a back and forth affair then Toronto pulled away with a 13-8 lead. Then the Ravens pulled away on a 12-4 run. Each time after that the Blues come up to within two points in the game, the Ravens maintain at least a two-possession game. The Ravens win sets the stage for a little visit with the Bronze Baby contenders the Windsor Lancers.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10844

Even in her atypical performance against Laurier, Windsor's Jessica Clemencon gets the OUA West Player of the West Award. She was the only OUA East first team representative for Windsor. They didn't dominate the awards; everything was stretched out among the schools, it seems.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10852

Ottawa's Hannah Sunley-Paisley wins her second consecutive OUA East Player of the Year Award. And other OUA East awards.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10854

Carleton and Windsor for the OUA women's title. Sure seems like a match to remember on paper with both teams dominating the Ontario women's basketball landscape.. It was billed as the Jessica Clemencon-Alyson Bush matchup. But people shouldn't forget the other players in the mix on both teams. The OUA women's championship was no doubt dramatic and close with Windsor pulling off a home 46-44 win in front of their racous fans as the Lancers won their third straight OUA title to grab the OUA banner and trophy. The game was a low-scoring affair with Windsor shooting 27% from the field in the first half. Carleton came out firing and applied pressure in the first half that brought the Windsor issues. However, Windsor, as they typically do in situations like this, crank up their defensive intensity to seal the win, like with the Ravens offensive foul at 0.4 seconds. OUA Player of the Year Jessica Clemencon, whom worked the ball to inside, rallied in the fourth quarter to total 17 points and 8 rebounds.
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10861
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10866
Game highlights: www.youtube.com/watch?v=gL9-1Zk6A6Q

The Cape Breton men may not be going to the Final 8 as expected, but the women surely are for the third consecutive time as AUS champs over the UNB Varsity Reds. St. Francis Xavier X-women win third place over hosts Memorial. New Brunswick (hosts CIS east regional) and St. Francis Xavier (plays in CIS central sectional) will represent the AUS in the sectionals.
www.atlanticuniversitysport.com/news/news_story.php?news_id=1514

[Durbansandshark]

Saskatchewan's Katie Miyazaki has a triple double when the #1 Huskies crushes Fraser Valley to headline the two Canada West games. Regina Cougars hold off the Alberta Pandas in the other Canada West women's Final Four game. All in Saskatoon.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/3/4/WBB_0304114427.aspx

In only their second time, the #1 Huskies won the Canada West women's title. This time in front of their fans. Four Huskie veteran players--Liz Miyazaki, MVP Kim Tulloch, Marci Kiselyk, and Jill Humbert--all scored in double figures in their win over the Regina Cougars. Kiselyk led the team with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Now they head to Windsor for next weekend. Gabrielle Gheyssen led the Cougars with 17 points. That includes five for eight three-point shooting. By scoring 31 points in the second half, the Alberta Pandas clinched their 10th bronze medal in the program's history in their win against Fraser Valley, playing in their first ever CW Final Four. Marissa Haylet had 20 points with Georgia Popovici and Sally Hillier added 12 points each. Tessa Klassen scored a game-high 20 points while teammate Aieisha Luyken added another 16 in a losing effort for the Cascades.
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/3/5/WBB_0305113829.aspx

CIS Regionals are like this (all on Friday, March 11):

WESTERN REGIONAL (at University of Regina)
Victoria vs. Regina
Wilfried Laurier vs. UQAM

CENTRAL REGIONAL (at Carleton)
St. Francis Xavier vs. Alberta
Winnipeg vs. Carleton

EASTERN REGIONAL (at University of New Brunswick)
New Brunswick vs. Western Ontario
Fraser Valley vs. Toronto

Regional championships are on Saturday to add to the Final 8 with Windsor (OUA), Cape Breton (AUS), Laval (RSEQ), and Saskatchewan (Canada West). Maybe the men should follow suit, since teams not in the same conference need to play each other more often.

Men's CIS National Final 8 seedings are like this:

1. British Columbia Thunderbirds
2. Carleton Ravens
3. Saskatchewan Huskies
4. Lakehead Thunderwolves
5. Trinity Western Spartans
6. Dalhousie Tigers
7. Concordia Stingers
8. Acadia Axemen

[Durbansandshark]

The 2011 CIS Final 8 Nationals men's basketball championship is going on right now in Halifax, Nova Scotia at the Halifax Metro Centre! No doubt there's an impressive field this year with balance up and down! Here's the schedule of today's quarterfinal games!

1.#1 University of British Columbia Thunderbirds vs. #8 Acadia Axemen
2.#4 Lakehead Thunderwolves vs. #5 Trinity Western Spartans
3.#3 Saskatchewan Huskies vs. #6 Dalhousie Tigers
4.#2 Carleton Ravens vs. #7 Concordia Stingers

No upset pulled off by Acadia in the Final 8 again this year: UBC just defeated the Axemen in the first game in Halifax 96-77. Acadia kept it close for three quarters until UBC pulled away. So the Thunderbirds are two steps away from possibly getting that elusive W.P. McGee Trophy. Lakehead and Trinity Western are just getting underway in the second half as of this writing. If everything goes to form, we could have the Carleton-British Columbia final on Sunday. Though I think the defending champs Saskatchewan could have a strong say on the matter if they can help it. Still, I'm picking Carleton to win it all in the Nova Scotia city, where it's been so good to them in recent years. Plus they're re-focused after losing to Lakehead in the OUA Wilson Cup. As a rule here, I won't go much into the Final 8 until both that and the women's Final 8 (and now the national sectionals) are complete.

For those wanting to get a link to the CIS Final 8's return to Halifax, visit this link: www.final8.ca and its Final 8 Facebook page (www.facebook.com/pages/CIS-Mens-Basketball-Final-8-Championship/156913131026448). TSN2 in Canada is airing the second half of the quarterfinals in the evening and onward to the semis and championship. SSN Internet streaming covers the first two quarterfinals, the consolation games, and the third place match.

Some more coverage from the Halifax Chronicle Herald:
Dalhousie Tigers' CIS title aspirations: http://thechronicleherald.ca/Sports/1232367.html
Final 8 promises excitement: http://thechronicleherald.ca/Sports/1232375.html
Underdog Acadia: http://thechronicleherald.ca/Sports/1232521.html
CIS Final 8 look: http://thechronicleherald.ca/Sports/1232501.html

Furthermore, for more coverage on the Final 8, Carleton's independent newspaper, the Charlatan, has its own Final 8 coverage on its blog (www.charlatan.ca/cisfinal_8), including live blogging during the Ravens games.

Carleton's super sophomore Tyson Hinz wins the CIS men's Mike Moser Memorial Player of the Year. His coach, Dave Smart, wins the Stuart W. Aberdeen Memorial Coach of the Year. The youngest recipient ever to win it at 19. He joins former Carleton stars Aaron Doornenkamp and Osvaldo Jeanty as recent winners.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110310-awards

[Durbansandshark]

Road to the Bronze Baby:
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110204-road
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110209-road2
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110215-road3
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110223-road4
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110301-road5
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110310-road6

Wildcard regionals: http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110306-bronze

[Durbansandshark]

Toronto, St. Francis Xavier, and Wifried Laurier all won their regionals this weekend to win a trip to Windsor. The Carleton Ravens got the wildcard spot. I'm surprised there's no further Canada West representation in this wide-open field...


The CIS women's national Final 8 Bronze Baby field is now set. Simon Fraser has gone to the NCAA (will get to them again later), so a new champ will be crowned. Will the Huskies keep the Bronze Baby in the Canada West? Or will the hot hosts and national runnersup Windsor wrestle away that dominance? Maybe an unheralded squad? Results, including the men's and of the regionals, will arrive next week to end the CIS 2010-11 basketball season.

The seeds:

1. Windsor Lancers (OUA champs)
2. Saskatchewan Huskies (Canada West champs)
3. Carleton Ravens (wildcard)
4. Cape Breton Capers (AUS champs)
5. Toronto Varsity Blues (CIS East regional champs)
6. St. Francis Xavier X-women (CIS Central regional champs)
7. Wilfried Laurier Golden Hawks (CIS West regional champs)
8. Laval Rouge Et D'Or (RSEQ champs)

Friday quarterfinals:
1. #3 Carleton vs. #6 St. Francis Xavier
2. #2 Saskatchewan vs. #7 Wilfried Laurier
3. #1 Windsor vs. #8 Laval
4. #4 Cape Breton vs. #5 Toronto

Saturday: consolation games and national semis
Sunday: 5th place, bronze medal, and championship games

http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110315-preview

[Durbansandshark]

Will get to all the drama that occurred starting with the CIS regional sectionals in the women's game, the Bronze Baby, and of the Final 8s in both Halifax and Windsor north of the border later this week. But for now though, here's the TV commercials for both the men's and women's CIS Final 8s

Men's (Halifax): www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWy1RC_2O9M
Women's (Windsor): www.youtube.com/watch?v=qalwZP9CW2k

The top commercial that aired on CTV, though some of the Final 8 games were actually televised on TSN, features AUS stars Simon Farine (Dalhousie Tigers) and Phil Nkrumah (Cape Breton).

[Durbansandshark]

What was so interesting about the regionals that took place early last month lied in the fact that the Canada West teams involved that got a second chance on the road to Windsor--Fraser Valley, Alberta, Victoria, and Regina--not a single one of them made it out of the regionals, given the supposed strength of the Canada West teams and of the dominance in women's basketball. I could understand Fraser Valley and Victoria getting eliminated in the semis; they were among the weakest schools from that conference in them. The Cascades were in the first ever trip to that in its very short time playing CIS basketball. The regionals also displayed just how much depth there actually was across Canada with Toronto, Carleton, Wilfried Laurier, Western Ontario, and St. Francis Xavier showing that Ontario and the Atlantic schools can show their stuff and depth too.

Regina looked like a strong contender to be the other Canada West squad in the Final 8 along with Saskatchewan, but the Cougars' 11-game winning streak came to end at the hands of Laurier. Even with that going for them, Regina were snubbed from the wildcard consideration along with Western Ontario as the regional losers in favo(u)r of Carleton. My guesses lie in the fact that the Carleton women are a program on the rise with aspirations of emulating the dynamic men's team--and the travel distance from Ottawa to Windsor isn't as steep and expensive as, say, London. Games were, for the most part, competitive.

CIS Regional semifinals--March 10
Regina 83 Victoria 73
Carleton 62 Winnipeg 59
St. Francis Xavier 82 Alberta 73
Toronto 78 Fraser Valley 69
Western Ontario 88 New Brunswick 62
Wilfried Laurier 61 UQAM 51

Regional Finals--March 11
Wilfried Laurier 82 Regina 67
Toronto 65 Western Ontario 57
St. Francis Xavier 64 Carleton 59

www.canadawest.org/news/2011/3/11/WBB_0311115555.aspx
www.canadawest.org/news/2011/3/12/WBB_0312114159.aspx
http://goravens.carleton.ca/womens-basketball-news/ravens-head-to-final-with-win-at-home-over-wesmen/
http://goravens.carleton.ca/womens-basketball-news/x-women-head-to-nationals-with-victory-over-ravens/
http://goravens.carleton.ca/womens-basketball-news/x-women-advance-to-final-with-win-over-pandas/
http://goravens.carleton.ca/womens-basketball-news/ravens-earn-wildcard-berth/
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10888
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10892
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10880
www.oua.ca/sports/basketball/wbasketball/home/index.html?article_id=10886

Back in Halifax, while all of that was going that weekend in its return, Trinity Western, as a reward for their best ever season in the Canada West, earned a CIS Final 8 wildcard (http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110306-final8), and later used used that to great effect in their first time in this. Could UBC, playing some of the best basketball in the CIS leading up to the moment, get their elusive WP McGee Trophy to end their disappointing string of Final 8 appearances and end a drought lasting from 1972? #2 Carleton hopes to get back to the top of that mountain in a city where it has been very, very good to them as they refocus after that OUA Final loss to Lakehead. Lakehead became red-hot in the OUA that led to their first-ever OUA title. Defending champs Saskatchewan performed some major reloading and a coach taking a leave of absence while still performing at a high level. Concordia, "the little engine that could" RSEQ champs, made a stunning turnaround going from last to first in the small division of five teams. Kyle Desmarais, a Central Connecticut St. PG transfer, led the way as an addition. Dalhousie, winners of two of the last three AUS men's basketball titles, had fifth-year senior Simon Farine serving as the Tigers leader. Sub-.500 Acadia made it to Halifax on the strength of their stunning win against top-seed Cape Breton in the AUS semifinals.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110308-preview

When I mentioned in passing the UBC Thunderbirds win against sub .500 Acadia soundly in the quarterfinals 96-77, I didn't get into great detail, though it started exciting in the first 30 minutes. But the CIS website and the Vancouver media surely can here.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110311-qtr1
http://basketballbuzz.ca/men/2011-cis-final-8-1-ubc-thunderbirds-advance-to-2011-cis-national-basketball-semi-final/
www.vancouversun.com/sports/Basketball+Thunderbirds+away+Acadia+tourney+will+f ace+Trinity+Western/4425848/story.html
www.vancouversun.com/sports/Veteran+Birds+take+national+hoops+title/4412712/story.html

Trinity Western's Final 8 debut was pretty convincing in their win against surprise OUA champs Lakehead 82-74.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110311-qtr2

Saskatchewan Huskies had no problems in the third quarterfinal with Atlantic champs Dalhousie Tigers 91-79 with Canada West MVP Jamelle Barrett showing how its done after trailing by a point at halftime.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110311-qtr3

Carleton Ravens got a major scare from the Concordia Stingers to advance to their 9th straight CIS national semifinals 73-66. Every time Carleton managed to get a run, Concordia came storming back.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110311-qtr4

Consolation game #1: Lakehead 75 Acadia 67
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110312-conso1

Consolation game #2: Dalhousie 76 Concordia 65
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110312-conso2

That UBC dream to win the CIS title this year after, including two consecutive final appearances in Ottawa the most recent years, will have to wait again with even more heartbreaking fashion. Thanks to Kyle Croston, formerly of Portland St., draining a dramatic three-pointer with 11.5 seconds to go for Trinity Western, capping them erasing a 16-point deficit, to stunningly win 74-72 over their Canada West rivals, the #1 seed in the first CIS semifinal.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110312-semi1

The defending champs are gone. Saskatchewan got ousted by the previous season champs, Carleton 95-83. Carleton now has a chance to reclaim the W.P. McGee Trophy.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110312-semi2

All the fun in Windsor's St Denis Centre at the CIS Final 8 Bronze Baby National Championship certainly had a lot of intrigue. Up until then, no CIS school has ever won the Bronze Baby as the host school. And in that field of 8, with the exception of the Toronto Varsity Blues, who had won their only banner back in 1986, none of the teams previously won one. Canada West, with its playoff champs and #1-ranked Saskatchewan as its sole representative, ultimately had trouble in keeping the Bronze Baby; this year was the best year in a long time for that to happen. A new champion was going to crowned anyway with Simon Fraser moved on to the NCAA.

To be continued...

[Durbansandshark]

For the first meeting they had last week, St. Francis Xavier beat the Ravens in the CIS East regional final. Surely, the Ravens were thinking that can't occur again in a such a short amount of time. But the X-Women did just that for an upset win over the favo(u)red wildcards Ravens in the first CIS quarterfinal 50-44, one of the lowest scoring games CIS Final 8 women's basketball history. Both struggled in their free throws.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110318-qtr1

Saskatchewan was more fortunate than Carleton in the next quarterfinal. But it does not mean the Canada West champs Huskies didn't get a scare from Wilfried Laurier, especially with their key defensive stops, through the course of the game. 58-51 was the final score with another game with both shooting poorly from the field.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110318-qtr2

You gotta feel for the only RSEQ representatives Laval when facing the top contenders for the Bronze Baby, the three-time OUA champs Windsor Lancers, on their home floor at the St. Denis Centre in front of their fans' defending roar all through the game. Even with this being a Final 8 game, there is indeed a gap among the teams. Bear in mind, Laval came in, despite their experience of sorts as the Quebec power, it was not really one of their better seasons. But the postseason made up for all of that for the Rouge Et D'Or with a pair of upsets. Still, French star, CIS MVP, and All-Canadian Jessica Clemencon ironically stopped the French university with strong help from her teammates. She had 16 points. Raelene Prince had 19 points for the Windsor merciless win over Laval 80-50 as they controlled everything.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110318-qtr3

AUS champs Cape Breton make their second appearance in the CIS women's basketball semifinals with a win over OUA Bronze Medalists Toronto 58-49. If Nicole Schultz wasn't in foul trouble in this game, Toronto might have won.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110318-qtr4

Wilfried Laurier fights off Carleton in a consolation game to go to the final 56-52, sending them home. Carleton seemingly is in the skids starting with their loss in the OUA Final against Windsor on the road.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110319-conso1

Nicole Schutz rebounded from her disappointing performance in the quarterfinals with a career-high of 35 points against Laval in Toronto's win 82-79, ending their Final 8 victory drought from 1997.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110319-conso2

Saskatchewan stops the surprising St. Francis Xavier X-Women in the CIS semifinals 58-40 and extending their winning streak to 29 games. The Huskies defense was key whenever the X-Women came as close as four during the game.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110319-semi1

Windsor's capacity crowd of 2000 was again rocking the St. Denis Centre, propelling the hosts Lancers to victory, this time to Cape Breton 56-47, as it takes one more step towards returning to the Bronze Baby game and face a date with Saskatchewan. Last time they faced other was back in Hamilton in the CIS semis at McMaster with Windsor winning that one. Windsor hopes to be the first team in 40 years to win the Bronze Baby as hosts and put an end to the 20-year Canada West stranglehold of the Bronze Baby. Three Lancers were in double figures (Clemencon, Kovacevic, and Langois). Cape Breton meanwhile, suffered poor shooting both at the charity stripe and on the field.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110319-semi2

#7 Wilfried Laurier wins in all-OUA 5th Place game over #5 Toronto 64-57 to give the Golden Hawks their best ever finish in their three CIS Final 8 appearances.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110320-5th

In an all-AUS Bronze Medal game, reflecting the strength and depth of the conference. The Cape Breton Capers won emphatically over the X-Women 67-53. Not the "right kind of bronze" for the Capers, but they did accept it.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110320-bronze

[Durbansandshark]

Consolation Final for 5th Place: In another close one for the Final 8, the Lakehead Thunderwolves end their surprising season on a high note with a win over the AUS champs Dalhousie Tigers and thus improve upon their 7th place finish last year in Ottawa. The Thunderwolves edge over Dalhousie 84-80. Lakehead trailed in the first two quartera but roared in the second half to take the lead. But the Tigers mounted a rally after being down 76-68, but Lakehead responded with a 11-point run. Jaime Searle ended his CIS career with 19 points, including a huge three-pointer in the dying seconds that capped said rally. Four other Thunderwolves were in double figures: Detroit's Venzal Russell (15 points), Ryan Thomson (13), Yoosrie Salhia (120, and Ben Johnson (10). For the Tigers, Toronto's Simon Farine exploded for 35 points, that included 22 points from the field, in a losing cause in his final CIS game.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110313-5th

Actually Saskatchewan didn't get eliminated in Halifax by Carleton; the defending champion Huskies still another game to close out their 2010-11 season. Problem was, they had to deal with British Columbia, still reeling from losing to Trinity Western. UBC faced Saskatchewan last week for the Canada West crown in Vancouver at UBC's War Memorial Gym, won by the Thunderbirds. The Thunderbirds win again here this time with a bigger margin, winning 111-95, a CIS Final 8 record for combined 206 points. This third place game, an offensively-entertaining affair that started very competitive in the first quarter, acted as a rematch to last year's CIS W.P. McGee Trophy game as the Huskies, of course, won that. It was the last time Alex Murphy, 2009-10 CIS MVP Josh Whyte, and Brent Malish all donned the UBC jersey as fifth-year seniors, though Malish had to sit out with an injury. Murphy tore it up with his 36 points, a tournament high, in the first third place CIS Final 8 game held since 1986. Jamelle Barrett had another 28-point game for Saskatchewan. British Columbia holds the top three records for most points in the Final 8 with the biggest coming from 117 at that 1972 title match, UBC's last. Others time they scored 111 points was in a 1991 consolation game with Brandon.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110313-bronze

The CIS championship was no contest at all between Carleton and Trinity Western in Halifax. Halifax has been so good to the Ravens, and it continues for them. The Carleton Ravens return to the top of CIS men's basketball supremacy with their no contest 82-58 win over the Spartans, who just capped their best ever season with a stunning win against UBC and in their first ever CIS final. The inexperience showed on the wildcard Spartans' part, learning about the intensity level, the outside shooting (like Carleton's 16 3's), and the strong defensive, physical showing in the post the Carleton machine showed. The Spartans had Doerksen as its only experienced Final 8 player, but that was when he was with Victoria. After the 13-13 deadlock in the first six minutes, it was all Carleton after that, despite Jason Doerksen and Kyle Coston being productive for Trinity Western in double figures and fleeting TWU stingy defense in the third. Tyson Hinz gets the Jack Donahue MVP Trophy as best tournament player to add with CIS MVP award ending his with 16 points, six rebounds, and four assists. Elliott Thompson produced 19 points to give him the player of the game hono(u)rs. CIS Rookie of the Year Philipp Scrubb scored 16 and Willy Magniat gets 12 points. Carleton wins their seventh CIS title, seventh banner, and seventh W.P. McGee Trophy in the school's history all in 9 years, with five of them coming in Halifax. So you can say the Ravens were in seventh heaven. Winning never gets old for Dave Smart, the best basketball coach in Canada! :)
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/mbkb/2010-11/releases/20110313-final

Over in Windsor the next weekend, no CIS women's basketball team in the 40 years of the Bronze Baby's existence has ever won it as hosts. Until now! That brilliant Windsor Lancers team, ranked #1 in Canada and widely seen as the best non-Canada West team to put an end to the 19-year Canada West Bronze Baby monopoly, did just that. Their 63-49 win in front of their loud, proud hometown fans with their thundersticks over the Canada West champs Saskatchewan Huskies, who were on a massive 23-game winning streak, was also historic for other reasons. Laurentian was the last non-Canada West (including the last OUA team until Windsor) team to win it all with their back-to back titles in 1990-1991. Above all else, it was the Lancers' first ever Bronze Baby and CIS banner! Nothing's ever like your first! :) Remember they were the runners-up last year in Hamilton when Simon Fraser won it all 77-65 in the Lancers' debut trip to the championship, so they now know what it's like to be in this situation. Surely, if it was right, they'd win it on their home turf as hosts the next year out of the ashes of the devastating loss as motivation. This loss for Saskatchewan ends their season like how Windsor did in last year in the semifinals to go for third place, and a disappointing end to the CIS careers of five Huskie four-year seniors. After trailing 16-6 to start the first eight minutes, Windsor scored the next 15 points--and then 22 of the next 24 points in the first half. And outscored 57-33 the rest of the way. Plus, Chantall Vallee's team's stingy defense contained the Huskies to 30% FG and 11.1% from behind the arc, continues a trend of their Final 8 games of containing their opponents to 50 points and under. In her 35 minutes of play, game MVP Jessica Clemencon led everyone in the game with 18 points and had seven blocks. Bojana Kovacevic had 14, Miah-Marie Langlois earned 10, and freshman Korissa Williams added 11. Windsor finishes the season at 33-2 over in the CIS this season.
http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb/2010-11/releases/20110320-final

Many congratulations to my CIS picks for this season, the Carleton Ravens and the Windsor Lancers, for winning it all! :) Now Ontario University Athletics is the CIS basketball superpower.

Next week, I'll bring you video highlights on the season and then some.

[Durbansandshark]

We're still basking in the glow at the end of the CIS 2010-11 basketball season, so, as promised, I'll give you much of the highlights from that season thanks to YouTube clips and goodies in celebration of both the Carleton Ravens and the Windsor Lancers.

Canada West championship game highlights between the UBC Thunderbirds and the Saskatchewan Huskies at the War Memorial Gym:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMR4IA9lunw

Concordia Stingers vs. UQAM RSEQ semifinal highlights:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fl4kA7JCnMo

Concordia Stingers beat Laval for the RSEQ championship:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhkllJ2IWao
www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fNtgCzocbo (French coverage)

OUA announces a live national TV Final Four deal with The Score:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=8E4TiNxmM2s
www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGPJIx8ZXT4 (Wilson Cup TV promo on The Score)

Lakehead wins the Wilson Cup upsetting Carleton:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=a24IOOSkcd4

Dalhousie-Acadia AUS championship highlights from Halifax:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfidYETK7QI

Dalhousie Tigers post-AUS championship interviews:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=DI65qTcLLh8

Quarterfinal postgames analysis and interviews:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=rj7gL8hrajs

Trinity Western Spartans beat Lakehead Thunderwolves footage:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ihL-YrFwd90

Trinity Western practices at an empty Halifax Metro Centre at the start of the CIS Final 8:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjSwad-WgWU

Spartan Tyler Mara interviews during practice in French:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lyf9hwhBm3s

TWU-UBC CIS semifinal highlights:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJd1REjgeZA

Trinity Western coach Scott Allen's postgame interview with the media after the Spartans' semifinal upset over British Columbia:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=yViqk2N9kM4

Saskatchewan Huskies warming up before playing Carleton in the semifinals:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kvVfKdexw4
www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0vVLOB3JdY

The Score's profile/interview on Carleton's All-Canadian and CIS (and OUA) MVP Tyson Hinz:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3ZOvg00veE

Trinity Western's interesting method of warming up before the 2011 CIS title game against Carleton...with the Dougie:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=t21XFPBzi9I

Carleton-Trinity Western CIS championship review with the Ravens winning in Halifax:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9aYM6yrYSI

Carleton Ravens celebrate winning the CIS championship with the W. P. McGee Trophy, the CIS championship banner, and the gold medals featuring Carleton's Red Zone student fans:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=kM-JJfc9XQ4
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ewog7YTzhq8
www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgNunsCOCXE
www.youtube.com/watch?v=My4eXHsjqdQ

Carleton Ravens celebrates with their fans, students, the community, and Ottawa's mayor after returning to school:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=37mVs8Kj1ms

Windsor Lancers celebrate being atop the CIS women's basketball rankings for the first time ever:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=5253dLtEudE

Windsor's Chantal Valee, Jessica Clemencon, and Bojana Kovacevic spotted at the Toronto Raptors-Cleveland Cavaliers game at the Air Canada Centre by the TSN sportscasters. Only Valee is identified in this brief piece. Clemencon and Kovacevic are seated to the left with Kovacevic.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=WIweYk8kUVY

Saskatchewan's fifth-year senior PG Jill Humpert looks forward to the postseason:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=JvNPrYLTACY

Windsor-Carleton OUA women's final report:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtMMpg3Omhs

Wilfried Laurier beats Toronto in the CIS consolational final:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFrl7-2SOrI

Chantal Vallee passionately sells her Windsor Lancers' quest for the CIS Bronze Baby to prospective fans in a TV promo:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oa0vItHiMHA

Windsor University Lancers profile of CIS MVP and All-Canadian from St. Rambert, Fr