Thursday 31 May 2007

UCFV Coaching, Thunderhoops Camp

The Abbotsford News reports on the recent termination of coaches Tom Antil and Pat Lee from the University College of Fraser Valley with thoughts from many key stakeholders in the Cascades men's basketball program
Cascades players shocked, upset More from the Abby News on the coaching change at UCFV in an article by Dan Kinvig Basketball coaches bounced

Thunderhoops Shooting Camp, one of the country's longest-running basketball camps, is getting ready for another summer of hoops in Barrie, Ontario. The camp's co-founders are Paul Hopper, a former guard with McMaster Marauders in the early 80's, and Marty McCrone, who played CIAU basketball with the Toronto Varsity Blues and later with the York Yeomen (now Lions). McCrone's son, Luke, who played at Harvard University in Boston earlier this decade is one of the numerous current and ex-NCAA, CIS and CCAA players who act as coaches at the camp. The camp ordinarily attracts excellent speakers and clinicians. Simcoe.com provides an article on this very popular and worthwhile camp Thunderhoops set to hit the hardwood in July

An interesting article about Josh Budd from Timmins High who apparently could have an opportunity to complete his high school career in North Carolina Baller ready for next level; Budd could see action in U.S. next season

Citadins Announce Coaching Additions

With yesterday's announcement of 3 new recruits, Head Coach Olga Hrycak and her UQAM Citadins will have a fresh new set of faces on the floor. Hrycak also announced that UQAM will have a pair of new faces on the sidelines working with her as the Citadins look to replace the retired Carlo Galli as assistant coach with former McGill assistant and head coach Nevio Marzinotto and graduating senior Marc-Olivier Beaucamp. Marzinotto worked on the McGill staff for many years with Ken Schildroth and then assumed the head role for 3 seasons before moving on to become Head Coach & General Manager of the ABA's Montreal Martix. "Nevio brings a wealth of experience to our program and it was an easy decision to bring him on board when we found out he was interested", stated Hrycak. As well, the recently-graduated Beaucamp, one of the stalwards during the Citadins young history as a CIS program, will join the staff. The Citadins also announced that they will host American International University, an NCAA Division II program, during the Thanksgiving weekend in early October and then travel to the University of Maine to play the Golden Bears, an NCAA Division 1 program, in November. Hrycak may have a couple of more recruits to announce in the coming weeks. Stay tuned.

Rainmen set to rain on Halifax as the newest ABA franchise in Atlantic Canada had their official grand opening including launching a new web site and announcing ticket prices Rainmen Are Set To Storm Halifax

UQAM/TWU Recruiting, More on Dalembert

After losing 6'6" Bruno Bernier-Visotzky (who probably will play semi-pro in France as he has dual citizenship), 6'4" MacKenzie Debrosse, 6'4" Pascal Lucky (French citizen who has returned home with the hopes of playing semi-pro) and 6'2" captain/guard Marc-Olivier Beauchamp (graduated - an original from UQAM's first CIS team) from last season's team, Head Coach Olga Hrycak has been working the recruiting trail to replace the lost talent on her UQAM Citadins and has been successful, welcoming at least 3 new probable-impact players for next season. The Citadins won a recruiting battle with several other schools for versatile 6'5" Olivier Boyard from Brebeuf College, probably the most highly touted player in CEGEP "AA" basketball this past season. After playing one season at Champlain College in Lennoxville, Boyard transfered to study in French and erupted on the CEGEP scene with his tremendous athleticism and all-round floor skills, leading his team to the CEGEP AA championship as tournament MVP. Boyard, who can play anywhere from the point to power forward, will study Accounting. Hrycak was also able to bring in Boyard's teammate, 6'3" wing Thierry Justin, another great athlete who can shoot the perimeter jumper and averaged 17 points per game this past season. Justin started CEGEP at Andre Grasset (private "AA" school) before transfering to Brebeuf and finished third in "AA" scoring this past season. Hyrcak describes Justin as an athletic player that can shoot the 3 ball very well. As well, the Citadins will welcome 6'2" Michael Sweeney from College Edouard-Montpetit a combination guard who is also quite athletic and loves to attack the rim. Hrycak notes that the Citadins have a roster full of athletes with no player taller than 6'5" which will allow UQAM to play an exciting, pressing, up-tempo, transition style that Hyrcak loves. "We want to determine pace of game and our latest 3 recruits plus the possibility of Sam Johnson returning (see below) will allow us to play up-tempo which we feel is important given the change to FIBA rules." Hyrcak also is talking to at least two more possible recruits who fit the same athletic profile the Citadins are modelling themselves around.

JOHNSON COULD RETURN: UQAM could also welcome back Citadins' captain, 6'2" Samuel Johnson, who was sidelined all season long in 2006-2007 with an herniated disc in his back. Johnson, currently completing his teaching field work in South Africa, is feeling stronger each and every day, doing his conditioning daily and is progressing to be fit for play in the fall for what will be his final year of university basketball. Johnson is a mentally-tough combination guard who epitomizes the Citadins running and pressing style as he finish in transition and has great instincts shooting the gaps in a pressing "d".

Kamloops This Week reports on Thompson Rivers Wolfpack welcoming back 6'6" forward Brent Traxel to their program Traxel returns to Wolfpack lineup As well, Thompson Rivers announces another pair of recruits for next season as per the following press release: KAMLOOPS-Two outstanding athletes have committed to the Thompson Rivers University WolfPack men's basketball team for the upcoming 2007-08 season. Zach Anderson, a 6'2" point guard from Fort Fraser, BC, who also plays hockey, baseball, volleyball and soccer, has received the Fraser Lake Elementary Secondary School's "most athletic" award since grade 7. His hockey team won district playoffs in the 2005-06 season, he plays on the Prince George regional elite basketball team, and he was named tournament MVP in five basketball tournaments this past year. As well as being an all-around athlete, Zach has attained honour roll standing. He will be pursuing an arts degree at TRU. "Zach is a true point guard," said TRU WolfPack men's basketball head coach Nevin Gleddie. "He has great vision and instincts, and looks to create for others. He strong and tough, which will help him make the transition from Single-A ball to the CIS. I believe that Zach will surprise a lot of people. He has a lot of potential," he added. Kyle McMurray, a 6'2" guard was a Sardis Secondary grad. In addition to basketball, he plays soccer, golf and volleyball, and won four BC top-ten track and field awards for high jump, hurdles and pentathalon. Kyle will be pursuing an arts degree at TRU. "Kyle is a very athletic guard who will be able to do a lot of things at both ends of the court for us," said Gleddie, adding, "With his strength and athleticism I expect he will become one of the better defenders in the league. He can also score off the dribble and the pass and is a good three-point shooter. With the CIS moving to FIBA rules, I believe Kyle will be a great asset to this team." (with thanks to Bronwen Scott, Media & Sports Information Coordinator, Thompson Rivers University)

Burnaby, B.C. - On Saturday, June 2, the Simon Fraser University Clan men’s basketball will host the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles in an exhibition game, their first ever game in SFU’s brand new West Gym (1:30 pm). The game will also be the final opportunity to see Clan star forward Aaron Christensen in an SFU jersey. Christensen played his fifth and final season this past year with SFU, earning a first team Canada West All-Star nod, and will dawn Clan red for a final time on Saturday. The Ateneo Blue Eagles currently play in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and finished second last year after dropping their final game to the UST Growling Tigers. The Blue Eagles are currently training in Las Vegas before traveling to the Lower Mainland to face off against SFU. Ateneo has finished second the past four years in the UAAP, winning a league championship in 2002-03. Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Champion and Hall of Fame coach Norman Black, in his third season with the Blue Eagles, leads Ateneo. Black will have returnees Rabeh Al-Hussaini, Jai Reyes, Zion Laterre, Johann Uichico and Claifford Araoto leading his team against SFU. "This is a great opportunity for our team to have a game against some top quality international competition," says SFU head coach Scott Clark. "It’s going to be an honour to coach against coach Black and his team, and I know our players are really looking forward to this game." Saturday’s game will be live on Clan Radio (www.sfu.ca/athletics); pregame will begin at 1:20pm, with tip-off taking place at 1:30pm. The game is made possible with the support of the Alumni Office of the University of Ateneo, The Ateneo Alumni of BC, The Ateneo Alumni of Washington, Simon Fraser University, FILCANSA, and Filipinos in British Columbia. Proceeds of the event are going to the AAABCs Scholarship and SFU’s Basketball Scholarship Programs. With thanks to Scott McLean, Media Relations Coordinator, Simon Fraser University Recreation & Athletics.

CANADA BASKETBALL SENIOR MEN'S NEWS: Another article, this time from the Philadelphia Daily News on the possibility of Samuel Dalembert being able to suit up for Canada in this summer's FIBA Americas Olympic qualifying tournament in Las Vegas. Dalembert eyes Team Canada

CANADA BASKETBALL TO UNVEIL BOYS’ NATIONAL ELITE DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY Canada Basketball has scheduled a teleconference for Friday, June 1st (tomorrow) to announce the National Elite Development Academy (NEDA) boys’ program and roster information. NEDA is a national training centre program held at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, bringing together 12 of the top development athletes, aged 15-18 years old from across Canada. NEDA athletes participate in a central training curriculum under the national team program strategies through the academic year (September to June). Greg Francis, Canada Basketball’s Junior Men’s National Team head coach will also serve as Head Coach for the NEDA boys starting in September. Stay tuned for a complete list of the roster as it becomes available.

Wednesday 30 May 2007

Fraser Valley Looking for a New Coach

Our thanks to hard-working Sports information director Mike Tucker from University College of Fraser Valley for this release hot off the presses:

UCFV to seek new coach for men’s basketball

It wasn’t quite the slam-dunk UCFV was hoping for. This past year, the UCFV Cascades men’s basketball team took on their first year of Canada West league play under an experimental leadership model. The structure paired Vancouver-based head coach and team administrator Tom Antil with assistant coach Pat Lee, who served as primary on-court leader. Following an inaugural 6-17 CIS season, this unusual arrangement has been deemed not strong enough to continue to shepherd the Cascades through the highly competitive landscape of their new league. As a result, UCFV will be hiring a new head coach for the coming season; this coach will then put the leadership structure in place for the men’s basketball team. “We really need coaches who can be active on and off the court, on campus, and in our local communities,” said Tim Segger, Vice President Administration at UCFV. “We’re now actively seeking a head coach who can engage completely and really take the team to the next level.” Segger emphasized that for the next season all commitments that have been made to student-athletes will be honoured.

Mike Tucker
Sports Information/Marketing Coordinator UCFV Cascades Athletics www.ucfv.ca/athletics

Laurier, McMaster Announce Recruits

Laurier Golden Hawks Head Coach Peter Campbell pulled off a solid, late recruiting coup by obtaining a committment from 6'3" Brandon Greenwood, who played his high school basketball at St.Marcelin's, a Tier 2 school in Mississauga but more prominently started on the Milton Maddogs, one of the better OBA juvenile teams in the province and coached by former McGill mentor Ken Schildroth. Greenwood, who is at his best running the floor, getting to the rim and working the offensive glass, could be a diamond-in-the-rough with his combination of athleticism and length and will be a solid complement as a wing to the Golden Hawks existing core of wings. Greenwood should push for time off the bench as a freshman. The recruiting of Greenwood brings Campbell back to the GTA where he had outstanding success recruiting, primarily with Laurentian, such CIS stalwards as All-Canadian Cory Bailey, Roan Biggs, Kevin "Flash" Gordon, Anthony Malcolm, Clifton Edwards, Bert Riviere and Omar Miles. Greenwood likely completes Laurier's recruiting class for this season which includes burly 6'1" Hamilton St. Mary's PG Austin Walsh, the heir apparent at the point, Connor Moshino, 6'5" left-handed swing man from Oakville Holy Trinity, Kale Harrison a 6'5" wing player from Stratford Central and 6'4" forward Nick St.John from Cornwall St.Joseph's.

The McMaster Marauders added another big wing who can shoot the ball to their roster with the recent committment of 6'5" Brett Day from London St. Thomas Aquinas. Day suffered through an injury-plagued high school season this past winter but can step out and make shots and should have a solid career in a Marauder uniform. Brett's brother Matt is a 6'8" forward who will begin his junior season with the UNC-Asheville Bulldogs of the NCAA Division 1 Big South conference. Day joins 6'5" Sharif Wanis from Burlington Nelson and 6'7" Matt Willusz from Hamilton Cardinal Newmann in Coach Joe Raso's most recent recruiting class. As well, 6'1" long-range sharpshooter Tyrell Vernon from Hamilton St. Thomas More is expected to enroll at Mac assuming he remains in Canada. Vernon is a high school teammate of Mac's emerging second year guard Jermaine DeCosta. The Marauders may not be finished their recruiting as of yet as they embark on a season in which they will have probably the youngest team in Raso's coaching era after suffering heavy losses to graduation of 6'8" Adam Steiner, 5'9" Martin Ajayi, 6'4" John Obrovac, 5'10" Mike DiClaudio and 6'5" Toms Lokmanis.

A quick reminder that the 2007 Under-17 National Championships will take place in Quebec from August 10-14, 2007 at Bishop's University in Lennoxville and the College de Sherbrooke in Sherbrooke, Quebec. We plan to have as extensive coverage as possible of this event which ordinarily produces numerous future CIS stars.

Quietly, SLAM! sports, the sports information site of the CANOE network, which has the SUN family of newspapers under their wing, has eliminated their "CIS Sports" link that provided a specific link to CIS sports news. Visitors to the old "CIS Sports" link are now directed to a general page "OTHER SPORTS". Unfortunately, this can only be viewed as another setback to CIS sports fans wanting timely, accurate and consistent information on Canadian university sports. With the apparent growth in popularity of major CIS sports (football television viewership is apparently increasing), the increased visibility of CIS men's basketball with Carleton hosting the nationals for the next 3 seasons and a generally more favorable view towards academic scholarships that should help keep some student/athletes from moving to the U.S., a setback such as this in the press appears inconsistent with building a positive profile in the sports community.

Tuesday 29 May 2007

Dalembert Article among In the News items

Michael Grange from the Globe and Mail reports on the possibility of Samuel Dalembert playing for Canada at this summer's FIBA Americas Olympic qualifying tournament in Las Vegas Dalembert's Canadian Dream

Canada Basketball announces their women's staff for this summer McNeill to coach Canadian women's basketball for sixth season

An article from the St. John's Telegram on funding cuts to sports programs. Once again, another indicator of the lack of public funding and the need for sporting organizations to develop non-government sources of financing their activities. Sports bodies aching after federal cutbacks

An article in the Truro Daily News about Cape Breton University's latest women's program recruit, Nicole Works, who is expected to get significant playing time Diving into the fray

Bronwen Scott, Media & Sports Information Coordinator at Thompson Rivers University reports that 2005 Scholar-Athlete award-winner Brent Traxel will return to the WolfPack to play his fifth and final year with the WolfPack men's basketball team this fall. The 6'6" forward from Cochrane, Alberta, was a team member of the Canadian College league national gold medal-winning UCC Sun Demons. "I am extremely pleased that Brent has decided to complete his eligibility this season," said men's basketball head coach Nevin Gleddie. "One thing about Brent is that when he is on the floor he always makes something happen. He is one of the most passionate players I have ever coached. Brent will bring tremendous leadership on and off the court and most importantly he brings that leadership and intensity every day to practice. There are few players as good as Traxel on the fast break. He can wear defences out all by himself."

Finally, congratulations to long-time University of Alberta Golden Bears Head Coach Don Horwood who on June 13 will be inducted into the Edmonton Sports Hall of Fame at the Winspear Centre, along with baseball great Orv Franchuk, former Edmonton Eskimo Leigh McMillan and wheelchair basketball player Danielle Peers. Here is the first in what promises to be a series of reports on this great honour. Congratulations Coach! Horwood to be named to Edmonton Sports Hall-of-Fame

Monday 28 May 2007

Burns gets U of T Honour, Laval Update, Dalembert for Canada?

Congratulations to Theresa Burns, a long-time CIS women's Head Coach at McMaster University and Ryerson University, who has deservedly been rewarded by her alma mater, the University of Toronto, for her stellar playing career as point guard on the great Varsity Blues women's teams in the mid 80's. As this article outlines, Burns is one of several athletes from U of T named to their Sports Hall of Fame Burns named to U of T Sports Hall of Fame

For a program that started play in the CIS only just over a decade ago, the Laval Rouge et Or under Head Coach Jacques Paiement have enjoyed spectacular progress, representing the QSSF at the Nationals for 4 consecutive seasons between 2000-01 and 2003-04, with their strongest showing being 2002-03 when they went 13-2 in the "Q" and advanced to the CIS semi-finals before losing to by 3 to Carleton Ravens, who went on to win their first of 5 consecutive CIS crowns. The past 3 seasons have seen the Rouge et Or contend in the "Q" but stumble in the playoffs, most recently last season against Concordia with probably the youngest team Laval has had since the late 90's. However, expect the Rouge et Or to return to the ranks of contenders this coming season on the heels of a second consecutive strong recruiting class that will support CIS All-Canadian candidate 6'7" J.P. Morin, who should push for a spot on one of Canada's team internationally this summer, and last season's CIS Freshman of the Year 6'3" J.F. Beaulieu-Maheux. In their most recent class, Laval added 6'4" Jerome Turcotte-Routhier (pictured), a CCAA All-Canadian this past season at CEGEP Ste-Foy, who the Laval coaching staff feels will have the same kind of impact J.F.Beaulieu had last year. Turcotte impressed at the Be-One All-Canadian Weekend a few weeks ago, starting the game and playing 30 minutes. This gives Laval at least 3 impact players as a foundation surrounded by at least another 7 players who can play. Next season, Laval will welcome yet another high impact recruit as 6'5" Etienne Labrecque, a former Player of the year in Quebec, CCAA All-Canadian most outstanding player at the CCAA Nationals for CEGEP Montmorency in 2006 returns to Canada after spending last season with Quinnipiac Bobcats of the NCAA Division 1 Northeast conference, where he appeared in 7 games, averaging 1.4 ppg. Labrecque will sit out this season as a transfer but will practice with the team every day. His size and skills will allow him to play any position from 1 to 4. Expect the "Q" to be a very tough conference this coming season.

With the surprising resignation of Canada Basketball's Executive Director Fred Nykamp, Canada's basketball community could use a shot in the arm. While this may not qualify as program-altering news, if the rumours are true, it is a definite positive for Canada basketball as the likelihood is strong that Philadelphia 76ers 6'11" forward/center Samuel Dalembert, who averaged about 11 ppg/9 rpg this past season with the Sixers, will suit up for Canada. Dalembert was scheduled to play for Canada a couple of years ago but could not get passport issues settled in time. Sources indicate that Dalembert is close to being cleared to play for Canada, which should be a huge boost to the program. Dalembert, born in Haiti but raised in Montreal, is a four year NBAer from Seton Hall University, who only began playing basketball in his second year of high school. Stay tuned for more on this breaking story.

Sunday 27 May 2007

Concordia in Isreal; X recruiting update, Mac upgrades

As previously reported, coach John Dore and the Concordia Stingers will be representing Canada in two seperate international competitions in Isreal over the next couple of weeks including the 2nd Annual Friendship Games, a 16 team event with teams from Russia, China, Jordan, Turkey, Greece, Poland, Estonia, Ukraine, Ireland, Canada, Palestine, Italy, Serbia, Nazareth and Israel. The team arrived in Tel Aviv this past Friday and leaves today for a series of international games at a pre-tournament event in Be'er Sheva between Monday and Thursday. This coming Friday, the team returns to Tel Aviv for the Friendship Games June 1 through June 8. The organizers have been able to attract NBA Hall-of-Famer Clyde Drexler to attend the games and former NBA Head Coach and current Atlanta Hawks assistant coach Herb Brown will give a two-day coaching clinic on June 1-2. Games will take place Sunday, June 3rd through Wednesday, June 6th at Tel Aviv University. We will endeveour to keep readers updated on game results as they become available. Here is a story that appeared recently on the CIS web site Stingers off to Israel for Friendship Games Here is a site with more information on the Games Friendship Games Site Good luck to the Stingers as they represent Canada.

It has thus far been a challenging year on the recruiting trail for long time St. FX mentor Steve Konchalski. While most teams have already announced their classes, many of which consist of multiple incoming recruits, X has made only one announcement: 6'5" Chad Warren from Corner Brook, NFLD and high school teammate of current X-Men forward David Joyce (see more on this later in this article). After bringing in arguably the top recruiting class in the CIS last season led by AUS Rookie-of-the-Year Christian "T-Bear" Upshaw, Coach K is looking to bring in another 2 or 3 impact recruits with this season's class using his tried-and-true approach of specifically targeting only a few high-quality players. While X is still involved with at least 5 players, all of who have very good potential, these players are taking their time making a decision for whatever reason. So for all the X fans emailing for an update, remain patient, Coach K is working as hard as he ever has on the recruiting trail and expects it will pay off - just not as quickly as some would have hoped. WARREN JOINS HIGH SCHOOL TEAMMATE JOYCE: As mentioned, newest X recruit Chad Warren played high school 3 seasons ago with current X forward David Joyce at what was then known as Herdman H.S. in Cornerbrook, NFLD. At that time, Herdman and Regina H.S. were the only 2 high schools in the town of Corner Brook. With a recent amalgamation, the two school were combined last school year into a new school called Corner Brook High, where Warren completed his high school career. The amalgamation created a bit of a competition gap in local basketball as Warren's team was forced to travel long distances (8 hours or more) to play competitive games. Speaking of school amalgamations, two famous Halifax high schools, St. Patrick's and Queen Elisabeth Park, both of which have produced numerous CIS stars over the years, have come together to be called Citadel H.S. in Halifax. The Senior boys Citadel Phoenix, as the new sports teams will be called, will be coached by long-time Atlantic Canada coach Mark Parker, who had a long stint as an assistant with Dalhousie Tigers over the years including working with Bev Greenlaw, an article on who we recently shared on this site.

The fruits of a decade-long strategic emphasis on effectively marketing their sports programs continue to be realized in an impressive way as McMaster's Arthur Burridge Gymnasium, home of the Marauders basketball teams is undergoing a significant facelift and, as the Hamilton Spectator's Larry Moko reports, fans visiting the facility beginning next season should see a dramatic improvement in the look and feel of the venue Classic Varsity Look: Mac's gym undergoes extensive reno Once again, congratulations to the entire Mac team, led by Athletic Director Terese Quigley and Marketing manager Robert Hilson for their tireless work building their sports franchises and helping CIS sports grow.

Saturday 26 May 2007

OUA Officiating News; CIS Hopefuls for Canada Basketball

Congratulations to long-time official Steve Foxcroft who has been named as officiating evaluator for the OUA East men, replacing Doug Harris who resigned shortly after last season. The role includes evaluating officials through live viewing and feedback from coaches and assigning which officials work OUA East league games. Foxcroft adds the men's officiating responsibilities to his ongoing role as evaluator for OUA women's play. Foxcroft, son of legendary referee Ron Foxcroft, has himself been a successful OUA West official since the late 80's and has worked numerous CIS Nationals games including several championship games. It is not clear whether or not this will mean Foxcroft will no longer referee games himself. Long-time Hamilton-based referee Guy Cipriani maintains his role as OUA West evaluator and assignor.

As previously announced by Canada Basketball, open tryouts for Canada's three international teams competing in various events this summer begin in mid-June in Toronto. Several current, former and rising CIS players should have strong opportunities to make U-21, FISU games and Senior National team rosters. The recent All-Canadian game at Humber College was the first of several opportunities for coaches to evaluate prospect talent and here is a quick look at some of the potential CIS stars who could have an impact on our national team programs this summer. One of Canada's strongest hopefuls for a long, successful career with the National program is 6'7" Aaron Doornekamp (Carleton), who brings a wide array of skills to the table including a competitive streak virtually like no other. Doornekamp already displays all the necessary skills of a prototypical international wing with the size, shooting range, passing and ball handling skills, plus some intangibles that contribute to winning. Doornekamp played through various ailments this season that contributed to less-than-stellar numbers during the regular season but he showed that when the stakes are highest, he can elevate his game, as he did in capturing the MVP at the recent CIS nationals. All Doornekamp lacks currently is experience (he's still only 22 years old) and some strength to compete with older, more physical international opponents at his position to possibly become one of Canada's better international players, beginning this summer on the Senior men's team. At 6'4", Casey Archibald possesses the perimeter shooting skills to stretch defenses and the strength and ball handling abilities to handle the basketball if and when required. Archibald matured dramatically in his last 2 seasons of CIS play with UBC as he transformed himself from a tall, relatively slight guard who needed screens to get open to a stronger, mentally tougher wing player who could create his own shot, shoot from distance and get to the rim when needed. He also improved his rebounding and playmaking skills. He could be a smaller version of a Sean Vankoughnett-type player who can make shots in bunches who can be productive in the proper system with the proper lead guard. Expect Archibald to play a role on the FISU games team at a minimum and possibly push for a role on the Senior team. Those who count out 6'2" Osvaldo Jeanty, the two-time Moser Award winner and five-time CIS champion with Carleton could again be in for a surprise as Jeanty's infectious competitive spirit and cerebral understanding of the game could be appealing qualities for the senior program. Jeanty is a bit undersized as a wing for international play however he understands the defensive principles that Canada is likely to implement, has no problem trying to lead in any environment and is not afraid to take big shots. Expect Oz to push for a role on the Senior men's team and if not be a solid part of the FISU team. A veteran of international play for Canada, St. FX's 6'3" Garry Gallimore brings explosive athleticism and the ability to play a shut-down role defensively as he displayed a couple of summers ago against USA's J.J. Reddick (now in the League with Orlando). Garry is a very hard worker who is very coachable and has the mental toughness to play whatever role is assigned to him. This summer is a very important one in Garry's basketball career as he aspires to play professionally somewhere either this coming season or next. Expect Gallimore to push for an important role with Canada's national program in some key capacity. Gallimore's teammate at X, 6'10" Neil MacDonald has previous experience internationally with Canada and has been preparing daily for what could be his final chance at wearing the Red and White. MacDonald has the length and experience that could find him on the senior team but more likely as a FISU team candidate. At 6'7" with solid perimeter skills and a nice back-to-the-basket game, Laval's J.P. Morin has the tools to be a contributor at the International level for Canada. For the second consecutive year, Morin was one of the top players at the recent All-Canada game and has a genuine opportunity to play internationally for Canada as soon as this summer. Others who may have opportunities with Canada internationally include Ryan Bell from Carleton who was in the program last summer but experienced only an average season by his standards with the Ravens this past winter. Ryan has a solid understanding of the game at the point, can defend well with his length and knowledge of the game and is at his best when he is consistently making perimeter jumpers, an area of his game that was solid in '05-'06 but fell off a bit last year; Victoria's Jacob Doerksen who brings a blend of talent and athleticism to the table and Ottawa's 6'4" Josh Gibson-Bascombe, a taller point guard who can stretch defenses with his shooting and can be effective when playing aggressively.

In the News

A nice article on RMC's incoming 6'6" freshman Simon Dakin from Comox, BC's Highland High School where he was a star volleyball and basketball player. Dakin is part of a strong RMC recruiting class that looks to dramatically improve Paladins competitiveness in the tough OUA East for seasons to come Dakin decides to go hoops route

More on former CIS star Aaron Olsen's retirement from the New Zealand Tall Blacks and the New Zealand team in the Austrailian basektball association Regret over Olsen's retirement

Former Dalhousie Tigers men's coach Bev Greenlaw has spent the past few years coaching high school girls at Wolfville (N.S.) Horton High School with many successes. Bev was at Dal in the late 80's and early 90's and was the founder of the annual Rod Shoveller Memorial tournament each year during the Christmas holidays. Congratulations to Bev on a great career in coaching Greenlaw steps down as Horton hoops coach

An article from the Huntsville (Ala.) Times on the Alabama Crimson Tide, previewing one of the many NCAA teams scheduled to travel to Canada over the Labour Day weekend. The Tide will travel to Ottawa and are scheduled to play the Carleton Ravens, Ottawa Gee-Gees and McGill Redmen. Tide to travel to Canada

Canadian National U-21 team hopeful Olu Ashaolu, originally from Toronto but playing his high school basketball in the U.S., has made verbal committment to the Rutgers Scarlett Knights of the Big East Nigerian-born, Canadian-bred Ashaolu picks Scarlet Knights plus another article from the Newark Star Ledger Hill gets verbal commitment from highly touted forward

Friday 25 May 2007

More Canada Basketball Articles and Info

More on the resignation of Fred Nykamp from Canada Basketball in a piece written by Dave Feschuk of the Toronto Star which talks to the challenges faced by the Senior Men's coaching staff and highlights Nykamp's reign as Executive Director of Canada's governing body for basketball Rautins faced with tough task: Nykamp did little to improve coach's lot

Another article from Steve Buffery of the Toronto Sun on Canada's National team Obstacles are old hat for Rautins alliefriends

From Andrew Cook of Canada Basketball: We have confirmed our open tryout date for all three levels of programming: SMNT (Open), DMNT (FISU Eligible), JMNT (Born January 1, 1988 or later). The following are the details:

DATE: Wednesday, June 13, 2007

TIME: 4pm – 6:30pm

LOCATION: HoopDome http://www.hoopdome.com/directions.aspx

Athletes must register in advance for the event through our Be One website.

The link to register on the event site is now live at http://beone.basketball.ca/en/module/Events/action/DisplayDetails/eventsID/220

We will be holding the open tryout for Senior and Development on one court and the open tryout for Junior on a separate court.

For more information on Canada’s top new basketball facility please log on to www.hoopdome.com

Be One, Canada Basketball's national membership program, is now live!
Designed to provide its members with valuable benefits and exclusive privileges, Canada Basketball's Be One program is unique to any of Canada's amateur sport organizations. For more information on becoming a Be One member visit www.basketball.ca.

Thursday 24 May 2007

Nykamp Resigns from Canada Basketball

Reports indicate that Canada Basketball Executive Director Fred Nykamp has resigned his post to pursue a position in another Canadian sport-related organization. Apparently, Nykamp announced his resignation to his staff earlier this week and Canada Basketball will hold a press conference later today to officially announce the resignation. Nykamp's move comes on the eve of a very important summer for Canada's national program which is trying to qualify for the 2008 Beijing Olympics at this summer's FIBA Americas tournament in Las Vegas. Stay tuned for more on this story as information becomes available.

Here is a link to a Canadian Press note on Nykamp's resignation and announcement as President of the Canadian Soccer Association Fred Nykamp leaving Canada Basketball to take over Soccer Canada

Out of Left Field's Neate Sager chimes in with his thoughts on the Nykamp resignation Shake up at Canada Basketball

TWU, Sask Recruits, other news

Trinity Western announces their latest recruiting class, bringing in 6 new faces including a pair of transfers who previously were with OUA East programs in 6'2" Lucas Goltz (ex-Queen's and RMC), and 6'2" Dawson Dueck, who walked on at Carleton last season and was redshirted. As well, the Spartans got 6'5" Matt Myer from Tacoma, WA who has a chance to be an immediate impact player. Here is the full press release from the TWU site SPARTANS ANNOUNCE 2007 CLASS-Jon Loewen and Matt Myer lead group of six

The Saskatchewan Huskies added more depth to their roster, which already has 11 potential returnees and 2 previously-announced recruits, with the addition of two players including a B.C. native. As always, huskiehoops.com has all the details Huskies add 2 more recruits to class The Regina Leader-Post also has a short piece on Saskatchewan's latest new faces Huskie Recruits

University College of Fraser Valley Cascades has added another pair of games against NCAA Division 1 schools over the Labour Day weekend as Marquette Golden Eagles and Idaho Vandals will also visit B.C. Two more games added to NCAA weekend

16 year old Tyrone Watson from Hamilton is the latest player to be named to Canada Basketball's National Elite Development Academy in Hamilton as Larry Moko from the Hamilton Spectator reports Cathedral's Watson chosen for elite basketball program

Earlier this week Canada Basketball officially announced the coaching staff's of their 3 summer teams. Here is an article that appeared earlier this week in a Syracuse paper outlining the challenges Orange alum Leo Rautins faces in coaching Canada's senior men's team Rautins Jack of all trades

Philip Croucher from the Halifax Daily News with an article on the ABA's newest entry in Halifax and comments on the likelihood of success of the fledgling frachise Rainmen come out of hiding

Wednesday 23 May 2007

In the News

Our good friend Dave Larkins from the Brandon Sun, a tremendous supporter of CIS basketball, has had his nose to the ground on a breaking story involving a potential big name recruit to CIS finalists Brandon Bobcats. Dave has a solid blog called The Point After and recently issued this report which appeared in the Brandon Sun on the Bobcats recruiting... posted with permission of the author.

The past few weeks have been quiet on the recruiting front for Brandon University's basketball teams but a few very big announcements could be bubbling underneath the surface.
Both men's head coach Barnaby Craddock and women's head coach Jaime Hickson have been active in getting on the road to find more faces to fill out their rosters for 2007-08 and Craddock may very well have the gem of the Canadian recruiting class at his fingertips.
Multiple sources requesting anonymity have told the Brandon Sun that 6-foot-7 Vancouver product Bol Kong — who played in the all-Canadian high school game in 2006 and drew significant NCAA Division 1 looks — has shown notable interest in attending BU next season. Kong, who was at one point being recruited by the likes of Santa Clara and Iowa, has had trouble gaining the necessary paperwork to cross the border and one reliable west-coast source told the Sun that if that paperwork doesn't eventually go through, Kong will come to Brandon.
The chance of getting Kong, a tremendously athletic slasher with pull-up and perimeter ability, is still a bit of longshot, but there is significant talk around the country that Kong could, fortuitously for the Bobcats, land in the Wheat City.
Craddock was out of town on a recruiting trip and unavailable for comment.
Kong's name is far from a secret in basketball circles. Clips of the St. George's High School star have made the rounds on Internet broadcasting site YouTube and posts on online message boards have even — if hyperbolically — discussed his potential as an NBA prospect should he land in the NCAA.
Craddock is also in hot pursuit of another point guard in the event that veteran quarterback Yul Michel does not return for his final season. Michel is back home in Montreal for the summer and a number of issues — from personal to scholastic choices — remain a stumbling block for getting him back in blue and gold. To that end, a possible option is former Manitoba Bisons guard Tarik Tokar who is reportedly interested in BU. Tokar played two seasons with the Herd after taking over in 2004-05 for Taylor Cherris-Wilding, who played with BU this past season.
Hickson, meanwhile, hasn't been shy about pounding the pavement either. The soon-to-be second-year head coach was following the Ontario Basketball Association provincial club championships earlier this month.
"It was productive in the sense that I saw a lot of kids in a really short amount of time," she said. "It was productive in establishing contacts and understanding what the talent range is out in Ontario and sort of getting a feel for what is it going to take to get Ontario kids to come out to Canada West."
Hickson has already announced the commitments of Glenboro shooting guard Dayna Prost and Winnipegger Chelsey Hiebert. However, Hickson has not made any secrets about her desire to land more shooters as well as beef up on the interior.
Hickson wouldn't comment on specifics, but what is known is Nicisha Johnson, a 6-foot-2 post from Toronto who played briefly at Central Florida Community College, visited Brandon during the men's playoffs and both sides remained interested in trying to make her status as a Bobcat a reality.
In the meantime, Hickson has a three-day, four-session identification camp planned for next weekend and hopes to unearth another potential athlete.
"It's important that some of these Winnipeg kids are coming in ... so these rural kids can see how they compare to the Winnipeg kids," she said. "It's an opportunity not to play in a team situation but to go one-on-one. So I think it's going to help them and I think it's going to help me."

Some recent recruiting news to pass along... the University of Toronto Varsity Blues will welcome 6'6" Drazen Glisic to their program this coming season. Glisic played at Northview Heights C.I. in North York and should add depth to the Blues front line next season. Glisic's high school teammate, 6'9" Paul Campbell, recently signed with NCAA Division 1 Hawaii Warriors. The Blues hope to have 1 or 2 more recruits in the fold by the end of the summer. Laurier Golden Hawks will welcome 6'4" Nick St. John to the program in the fall. St. John led Cornwall St. Joseph's H.S. to "AA" OFSAA at Perth this past March and is a big, strong forward with a football body who should add strength and depth to the Hawks front line. The Hawks are waiting on one or two more recruits.

Canada Basketball has officially announced the coaching staffs for their three men's programs this summer (Senior Men's, FISU games and U21 teams) in a press release and subsequent article from Canadian Press Canada Basketball confirms men's coaching staff

Short note on a Syracuse-based blog on shooting guard Andy Rautins and the possibility that he will play for Canada's national team this summer Rautins to play for Canada

Several news sources out of New Zealand are reporting that Canada's Aaron Olsen will retire from basketball. Olsen, who played at the University of Victoria and Eastern Washington University, was a founding member of the New Zealand Breakers of the Austrailian Basketball League and played for the New Zealand National team "Tall Blacks", playing as a native New Zealander (his mother was born in New Zealand). Olson makes shock retirement

Don 'Butch' Steponchev, a basketball official for the past 43 years, Monday received Sports Officials Canada Fox 40 award for his "significant contribution to officiating at the and inter level." Long time official honoured

Mississauga native Ryan Wright, who earlier announced he was transfering from UCLA, has decided to continue his collegiate basketball career at Oklahoma. Wright transfers to Oklahoma

Finally, an article from a Binghamton, New York newspaper reporting that 6'9" Ian Milne, originally from Manitoba, will not return to Binghamton University's basketball program, primarily due to multiple injuries including post-concussion syndrome which limited the rising junior's playing time last season. The article seems to imply that his playing career may be in jeopardy. Ian Milne career in jeopardy?

Monday 21 May 2007

Dalhousie Tigers Announce Newest Recruits

After qualifying for the AUS tournament for the first time in four seasons, coach John Campbell and the Dalhousie Tigers are optimistic that the program is on the upswing and can begin to annually challenge for the AUS title. By virtue of their latest recruiting class which includes several high quality names, the Tigers are gathering a solid array of talent to add to their core of returning veterans. Dal officially announced their class this morning and at least 7 new faces will arrive at the Halifax campus in time for next season including a guard who projects as one of the top newcomers in the CIS in 6'1" Simon Farine (pictured), who sat out last season after transfering from Wisconsin-Green Bay, an NCAA Division 1 program in the U.S. midwest where he averaged 1.4 ppg in 27 games in 2005-06. Originally from Toronto's Northern Secondary School, Farine is a solid combination guard who was generally regarded as one of the top players in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) in his final year of high school. After garnering limited playing time down south, Farine has transfered back to Canada and should add the star-quality, go-to player that the Tigers will need as they plan their ascent up the AUS ladder. Campbell was able to find another gem in Toronto at Farine's alma mater (Northern S.S.) as 6'4" Yannick Walcott will also join the Tigers for next season. A solid wing who can score and defend, Walcott should also be an impact player from the beginning given his solid experience playing in the Toronto public school league and a recent appearance at the "Rumble in the T-Dot" all star game. Campbell wasn't finished in Toronto however as the Tigers welcome 6'6" Robert Nortman, a tremendous athlete who spent this past season at Eastern Commerce Prep after a solid high school career at Malvern S.S. in Toronto, also winning slam dunk competition at the Sam Ashaolu Charity game in Toronto. Expect Nortman to be at his best in up-and-down, transition type games where he can flash his great leaping ability. Nortman projects to be a contributor off the bench early in his career with the potential to play significant minutes down the road. Dal is also very happy to be bringing in 6'6" Jason Wang from Ottawa's Sir Robert Borden H.S. Wang, an excellent student who aspires to attend medical school one day, should provide depth up front at the four spot. The Tigers also got some assistance on the recruiting trail from one of the greatest players in Dal history as Dean Thibodeau, who was an All-Canadian with the Tigers in the mid-90's and is still playing in Europe, uncovered a potential gem across the Atlantic in young wing 6'3" Juppe Knudsen from Copenhagen, Denmark. Knudsen, only 19 years old but already with three seasons playing experience in the Danish First Division for Sjaelland, should allow him to compete immediately at the CIS level and projects as a solid wing player. The Tigers weren't finished yet as they attracted 6'4" Josh Beatty, a local product from Bedford, N.S. (C.T. Allen H.S.). Beatty is described as a mentally-tough, skilled perimeter player with solid fundamentals and a high basketball IQ. The Head Coach went out west to the basketball hotbed of B.C. to snare his first namesake in his tenure at Dal as 6'0" Charlie Campbell from Vancouver College High School in Vancouver, BC (no relation to the coach) will attend in the fall, adding depth to the backcourt. Charlie Campbell played a key role on his team’s third-place finish at the recent B.C. provincial championships and averaged 17.4 points, seven rebounds and eight assists in his final season of high school basketball. With key returnees Andrew Sullivan and Germaine Bendegue among others, expect the Tigers to have enough depth and quality to compete for a top four finish this season in the AUS.

MORE ON DAL'S RECRUITING CLASS: Article by Philip Croucher from Halifax Daily News Basketball Tigers flush with new recruits for upcoming season and from Chad Lucas of the Halifax Chronicle-Herald Tigers land seven new faces for 2007-08

Montreal's Maurice Joseph who just finished his sophomore season with the Michigan State Spartans of the Big 10 but, according to this report, is expected to transfer to a lower Division 1 school, probably closer to home in Montreal. MoJo to transfer

Halifax Black Tournament Championship

In front of an overflow crowd of 1,500 at the Tower of the campus of St. Mary's University, a local team from Halifax led by a number of current CIS stars defeated a Toronto team in the championship game of the 35th Annual Black Basketball Association tournament. Chad Lucas of the Halifax Chronicle-Herald reports Africville wins: Local CIS hoop stars win black basektball tournament A final and another account of the tournament from Chris Kallan of the Halifax Daily News We Stuck Together

Also, the excitement is building for the arrival of the Halifax Rainmen, a new entry into the American Basketball Association this coming fall Rainmen to play 18 games out of Metro Center starting in November

Sunday 20 May 2007

In the News

The Belleville Intellegencer reports on five local high school stars who will continue their basketball careers at various Ontario universities beginning this fall Five B-ball stars university bound

Former Canadian national team star Bob Sharpe, who led the Guelph Gryphons on an improbable run to the CIAU national title in 1974 as a wild card entry is "flabergasted" at being named as part of the 1976 Olympic team's entry into the Canadian basketball Hall-of-Fame as Ned Bekavac of the Guelph Tribune reports Flabbergasted at Hall Call

The 35th annual Black tournament continued in Halifax and Chris Kallan of the Daily News has all the coverage on this great tournament Fiercely contested matchup ends with win for Montreal plus another article on the tournament from the Chronicle-Herald by Chad Lucas The world needs to know:
U.S. entrepreneur thinks black hoop tourney is special

Friday 18 May 2007

Halifax Black Tournament Day One

Chad Lucas of the Halifax Chronicle-Herald has a comprehensive article on Day One of the 35th annual Halifax Black Basketball Association tournament in which St. FX's Tyler Richards had a strong first game. Local boys back and look good in basketball tourney opener: Richards scores 18 points as Africville downs Toronto team

Basketball Nova Scotia has named their provincial U-15 teams for the upcoming Canadian championship tournament Nova Scotia teams off to U-15 nationals

Mark Kosak, former athletic director at the University College of Fraser Valley, has moved on to take a similar position at Lethbridge College (formerly Lethbridge Community College) * thanks to Dave Wells for correcting this for us * , primarily to be closer to his hometown of Calgary, as the Abbottsford News reports Cascades athletic director Kosak moves on

Manitoba basketball has decided to switch to FIBA rules Manitoba basketball organizations latest to switch to FIBA rules

An interesting article in the Rocky Mountain News concerning 6'11" Saskatchewan native Marc Van Burck (Star City, Saskatchewan) who was among three freshmen on the University of Colorado men's basketball team recently told by new coach Jeff Bzdelik they could receive financial aid next season but will not get significant playing time, according to Rivals.com. Van Burck was hampered by foot problems for most of his freshman year. He participated in nine games, seven during Big 12 Conference play, averaging 3.8 minutes, 1.0 rebound and 0.3 points. Three Buffs told they won't play much

Windsor Coaching Clinic

Long-time NCAA Head Coach Rick Majerus, recently named new coach at Saint Louis University, headlines the list of coaches at the University of Windsor Basketball coaching clinic on June 1-2. Also on the list of clinicians are 7 time CIAU National champion and former Canadian National team Head Coach Ken Shields and current Carleton University head coach and Canadian national team assistant coach Dave Smart.

Majerus has a very strong reputation as a tremendous teacher of the game, having started his coaching career with legendary Marquette coach Al McGuire and served under NBA coaching greats Don Nelson and Del Harris among others. Of course Majerus has had his own successes as head coach, most noteably leading the Utah Utes to the NCAA championship game in 1998. He has also coached at Ball State and Marquette before recently returning to the sidelines, signing a six-year deal with the Billikens of Saint Louis after a three-year hiatus analyzing games for ESPN/ABC. Among the talent that Majerus has sent to the NBA is Philadelphia 76ers point guard Andre Miller, a mildly recruited guard out of inner-city Los Angeles coming out of high school, and Michael Doleac, who received only one scholarship offer coming out of high school (from Majerus) and ended up in the NBA. Majerus is a proven teacher and developer of player skills - he is a tremendous clincian and coaches will learn a tremendous amount about teaching the game from Coach Majerus.

Coach Ken Shields is a legend in Canadian basketball coaching circles, having led UVic to an incredible run of CIAU national titles in the late 70's and early 80's after beginning his career at Laurentian University. Shields then went on to coach Canada's National team and also worked closely with former NBA head coach Del Harris. In fact, Shields is honoured as a strong contributor to Harris's tremendous book "Winning Defense". One of the most technically-sound coaches of his generation, coach Shields built impressive programs at UVic, stocking our national team with such Canadian basketball greats as Eli Pasquale, Gerald Kazanowski and Greg Wiltjer. Recently, Shields served as guest coach for the Milwaukee Bucks during the 2006 NBA playoffs. Another technically-sound teacher of the game, Shields will communicate his decades-long knowledge base in the clinic.

Dave Smart could be viewed as this generation's Ken Shields of Canadian basketball coaching. Having won 5 consecutive CIS national championships (and counting), Smart has proven to be a deeply-technical teacher of the game both individually and in the team concept. Still only in his 30's, Smart is already on the staff of Canada's national team and has established the Ravens as a CIS basketball dynasty. With a solid knowledge of the details of the game, Smart is a great addition to the clinic.

Confirmed Speakers and Topics

Rick Majerus - Head Coach, St Louis University, arguably one of the top clinicians in the world! Clinic Topic: Defending Ballscreens, Developing the Big Man, Motion Offense

Ken Shields - 7 time CIS national championship coach at the University of Victoria - Clinic Topic: The Art of Coaching".....the combination of leadership and teaching. The role of leadership in the development of toughness, self discipline, learning to compete, character development. The teaching of individual skills in the context of the principles of the game....two and three man plays so that players develop and "understand the game"

Dave Smart - 5 time CIS national championship coach at Carleton University - Clinic Topic: Carleton Half-Court Defensive System

Don't miss out on this incredible coaching educational experience.

This event will take place June 1-2, 2007 at the St Denis Centre on campus at the University of Windsor (just seconds across the border bridge from Detroit).

The clinic will feature on court demonstrations and will be comprehensive in its coverage of each coach's technical and tactical systems. Each coach will do multiple sessions so that you can get in depth coverage of each topic.

For more information, visit www.golancers.ca (go to Lancer teams - men's basketball - 2007 coaches clinic) or contact Coach Chris Oliver at coliver@uwindsor.ca or 519-253-3000 ext. 4047 for more info.

Thursday 17 May 2007

More in the News from today

Big news out of Kamloops BC as the City of Kamloops has unveiled their new sports complex on the campus of Thompson Rivers that will be home to the Wolf Pack men's basketball team among other teams. Former long-time U of T Varsity Blues and Lethbridge Pronghorns Head Coach Ken Olynyk , who took over the Athletic Director's role at TRU a few years ago, now has a world-class athletic facility for his stable of varsity teams. The facility, which sits on the campus of the university, has a seating capacity of 2,500 for basketball, with all seats theatre style. Here is the official announcement from the Thompson Rivers athletic site including pictures and a full description of the new facility, complete with FIBA-rules floor markings Kamloops' newest multi-sport facility is officially named "TOURNAMENT CAPITAL CENTRE" Speaking of Coach Olynyk, who legend has it was a tremendous player in his day, keep an eye on his son Kelly, 16, who is an up-and-coming talent on the hardwood in B.C. currently attending South Kamloops H.S. At 6'5 1/2" and apparently still growing, the younger Olynyk, already part of Basketball B.C.'s Center for Performance as a Grade 10 student, has a chance to be a top player in the province going forward.

We hope to have some reports from the Black tournament in Halifax over the weekend as well as the Ontario Juvenile championships in Sault Ste. Marie, where a number of future CIS players will be competing, among other things. Here are a couple of articles on note including another on this weekend's tournament in Halifax and a piece on an up-and-coming star from the Waterloo, Ontario region.

Chris Clements from the Halifax Chronicle-Herald reports on the 35th annual Black tournament in Halifax Black basketball event to offer feature tournament

As well, a great piece in the Chronicle-Herald on blog reader Ron Fraser from Antigonish, NS, a long-time member of St. FX's Blue and White booster club X Booster a Credit to his community

An article by Josh Brown of the Waterloo Record on Waterloo's 6'6" 15 year old Murphy Burnatowski, who has been selected to join Canada Basketball's National Elite Development Academy Success within his reach

In the News

Neate Sager's "Out of Left Field" site continues to be my choice for catching up on the NBA, the Jays (only 4 games under .500), hockey and of course excellent opinions and thoughts on CIS sports. Once again, Neate highlights reasons to support a proposed new format for CIS national basketball championships in a recent piece Four on the Floor

Lakehead announces a pair of recruits in 6'8" Clinton Belisle and 6'6" Aaron Jackson. As well, former OUA West scoring champion Kiraan Posey, who sat out last season concentrating on his academics but still practiced with the Thunderwolves all season, will return in the fall. Here is the official press release from Lakehead sports info. Lakehead announces recruits

A long-standing Victoria Day tradition in Halifax continues to live on as the 35th Annual Provincial Black Basketball Association tournament is set to go this coming weekend with games at various gyms around Halifax. Teams from most parts of Canada are represented and the Halifax Daily News reports on St. FX's Tyler Richards and one of the local entries in this year's tournament Africville team to represent Halifax in black basketball tournament

Here is a special tribute to former Concordia Stingers assistant coach Harvey Liverman who sucumbed to cancer last week A Sad Goodbye

Wednesday 16 May 2007

Simon Fraser Recruits; Hoopstars Article, other news

Howard Tsumura of the Vancouver Province summarizes the latest recruiting class at Simon Fraser in this morning's edition. The class includes 6'5" forward Zack Fralick, a former member of B.C. under-17 team, 6'4" wing Matt Kuzminski, a UVic transfer, and Tarek Khalid, a guard who previously played at Western two seasons ago. Simon Fraser head coach Scott Clark also mentions that he hopes to confirm three more players over the next few weeks. SFU men's basketball team shores up squad

Larry Moko from the Hamilton Spectator reports on the recent OUA meetings in Huntsville, ON including some speculation about potential changes to the CIS women's nationals tournament in an article this morning CIS basketball rules under review

Another solid piece by Barry Hayes of Hoopstars Canada who does such a thorough job covering Canadian high school basketball and where the stars of tomorrow plan to continue their careers. The piece makes mention of the newest recruits to St. FX, UQAM and Laval. Hoopstars Canada Recruiting Update May 16, 2007. In a related article, the Western Star from Corner Brook, NFLD chronicles the recruiting of Chad Warren who will likely attend St. FX in the fall Recruiting of Chad Warren

The Saint Mary’s University Sport Hall of Fame has announced its 2007 class of inductees, including a pair of basketball stars from the 1970's who were key members of the Huskies 1973 CIAU championship team. Former Huskie ballers being inducted this year are John Gallinaugh, a point guard, and Lee Thomas, a dominating center. Gallinaugh, a native of Rockaway Beach, N.Y., who stayed in Halifax after his university days, remains one of the greatest basketball players in SMU history. A savvy point guard, he guided the team to the Canadian university championship in 1973. The Gallinaugh family tradition continues at St. Mary's this coming season as John's son, 6'1" Jack Gallinaugh, will join the Huskies squad as a freshman out of Halifax. Thomas was another key member of the 1973 championship team as a three-time conference all-star in 1973, 1974 and 1976 and a two-time All-Canadian. He led the AUS in rebounding in each of his four seasons.

Tuesday 15 May 2007

Winnipeg: Pair of Bigs Commit + Guelph Article

With only one non-starter lost to graduation, several upperclassmen including incomparable guard Erfan Nasajpour returning and the continued maturation of a solid recruiting class that came in this past season, Winnipeg Wesmen head coach Dave Crook did not have a lot of critical areas to address in this coming season's incoming recruiting class. Still, the Wesmen were able to attract three new faces, including a guard and a big man who should push for playing time immediately. Highlighting the class (previously announced) is 6'0" Cam Hornby, originally from Winnipeg Glenlawn who had a two-year stint at South Dakota State (NCAA Division 1) including one season as a redshirt. Hornby will be eligible immediately in the fall and begin his second season of CIS eligibility. Crook also recently gained a committment from 6'7 1/2" post Ben Kingdon, who was named Manitoba Player-of-the-Year by the Winnipeg Sun and led Winnipeg Oak Park H.S. to the Manitoba provincial championship this past season. Expect Kingdon to add depth to the Wesmen front line and push for significant time as the season progresses. Winnipeg added more depth to their front line with 6'9" Ryan Willerton from Winnipeg Vincent Massey, who is maturing as a player but has a solid physical package including a 7 foot wing span. Willerton will need time to develop his offensive skills but can alter shots with his length. Expect him to contribute down the road. With a solid returning core of seniors, a strong, deep class from last season and two potential starters at some point, the Wesmen appear to have a bright future.

Reports out of Manitoba have CIS Nationals finalists Brandon Bobcats ready to announce a key recruit later this week. We hope to have something on this developing story within a couple of days.

Guelph coach Chris O'Rourke has been busy on the recruiting trail and welcomes 4 new players plus Jonathan Moscatelli who will finally make his Gryphon debut this fall after missing the past 2 seasons fighting through a pair of knee operations. Greg Layson from the Guelph Mercury reports on the Gryphs latest class and provides a preview of the Guelph lineup for next season in this article Hoop Gryphs hope to step up

UPEI Panthers recruiting class is chronicled in the Halifax Chronicle-Herald UPEI Panthers recruiting class

In the News - Jordan Sheriko, Brock & Canada Basketball

Acadia's Jordan Sheriko, who helped lead the Axemen to the AUS championship and a spot at the CIS Nationals with his veteran leadership and three point shooting, also has been very active off the floor in preparation for his first year at Dalhousie Medical school as the Halifax Chronicle-Herald reports A Lesson in Community Spirit

As previously reported on this site, Brock has landed 6'6" Andrew Ferguson from St. Catharines Governor Simcoe Redcoats Ferguson to Brock

Canada Basketball has announced their latest Hall-of-Fame class which includes Bob Phipps, a five-time CIAU all-star and National championship team member in the 40's and the 1976 Olympic team which finished 4th in the Montreal Olympics, Canada's second highest finish ever. The '76 team roster is dotted with Canadian basketball greats and included Assistant Coach Steve Konchalski, current Head Coach at St. FX. Canada Basketball announces Hall-of-Fame class for 2007

FIBA Americas has ambitious plans for a professional league. The basic concept of FIBA Americas is to develop a tournament from mid-December to mid-February with 16 participating teams - eight from South America and eight from Central America, the Caribbean and the United States. FIBA Americas - Americas League moves step closer

Thanks to Neate Sager Out of Left Field for contributing links to this edition

Saturday 12 May 2007

Ex-Stinger Assistant Liverman Passes at age 58

Our condolenses go out to the family and friends of Harvey Liverman who passed away this week in Montreal. Liverman was a long-time fixture in the Montreal basketball community who played at Loyola (before it was called Concordia) and then coached along with John Dore at Concordia. Liverman was an assistant coach on the Stingers 1989-90 CIAU National championship team.

Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette offers up a tribute to Harvey. "Harvey was a winner: Condolences go out to the family of Harvey Liverman, who was far too young when he died this week at 58. It's no surprise that Liverman put up a courageous front in his second battle with cancer.He played college basketball at Loyola and was a longtime assistant coach at Concordia. He was also involved with Maccabi Canada."

Friday 11 May 2007

Waterloo Recruits + In the News

Coming off a disappointing season including the loss of several veteran players due to graduation, the Waterloo Warriors were in somewhat-desperate need of a quality talent infusion and if their first wave of confirmed recruits is any indicator, the Warriors have addressed these concerns solidly. The first 4 new faces for Waterloo next season include two projected starters who should be immediate impact players and a pair of solid role players. Highlighting Waterloo's class are 6'3" Cam McIntyre, a swingman who starred at Kitchener C.I. in 2005-06 before sitting out last season while upgrading his academics at Conestoga College, and 6'8" transfer Sinclair Brown, who led Vancouver Argyle High School to the B.C. Provincial championships in 2005 and has a season's worth of practice at Waterloo under his belt during his redshirt year last season transfering from Simon Fraser where he began his CIS career as a freshman in 2005-06. McIntyre is regarded as a tremendous scorer who finishes in a variety of ways including knocking down shots beyond the 3 point range and getting to the rim while Brown, who was a high school teammate of current Warrior Ben Frisby and participated in the NIKE All-Canada camp as a high schooler, can play anywhere from the 2 to 5 spots. Both are projected starters; McIntyre will enter his first year of eligibility while Brown, who averaged 2.4 ppg, 1.7 rpg and 8.3 mpg while participating in 24 games as a freshman with the Clan in '05-'06, will be starting his second year of eligibility. Another transfer should help the Warriors with their perimeter shooting as 6'5" Tim Rossey, originally from Winnipeg Silver Heights H.S., will begin his second year of eligibility with Waterloo after a freshman season with Lakeland (Alta.) Community College during which he was the team's second leading scorer. Rossy projects as a combination wing forward. Waterloo added depth up front with 6'6" Doug Fischer from Kitchener Grand River, who is currently playing for Waterloo assistant coach Curtis Dauber on the Juvenile OBA's Waterloo Wildhawks and has a nice array of skills facing and with his back to the basket as a 4 man. The Warriors are not likely finished as of yet and are waiting on 2 or 3 more players, all of whom should push for immediate playing time. Stay tuned for more info on their class in the near future.

McMaster women's head coach Theresa Burns was honoured as coach-of-the-year and Bill Sturrup, the public announcer for years at McMaster basketball and football games, has been named posthumously OUA Media Member of Distinction. Mac coach honoured: OUA recognizes Theresa Burns and Bill Sturrup

Both head coach Fabian McKenzie and his CBU Capers women’s basketball team were honoured with the awards as a part of the Cape Breton Sport Heritage Awards.
Women Capers Honoured

More on the FIBA Americas refereeing as the entire crew was named (including Quebec's Mike Homsy) as well as a three man technical committee that includes a Canadian, Fred Horgan, from Saint John, New Brunswick, a member of the New Brunswick Hall-of-Fame and one of Canada's most decorated referees. On February 8th, 2005, Fred was appointed by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson, Governor General of Canada, to the Order of Canada for his service to Sport and Sport Officiating. Here is the FIBA Americas article Referees' designation for FIBA Americas Championship