tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42092985939286681042012-01-17T23:36:46.105-05:00Articles, opinions and information on Canadian University (CIS) basketball and related topics. Send your thoughts to marek.wacyk@sympatico.caMark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.comBlogger26161100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-70262237923282902682012-01-17T19:27:00.000-05:002012-01-17T19:27:32.376-05:00

Lost in the CIS news over the weekend was the two hour delay in the UQAM at Concordia game due to the rim being pulled down by a Citadins dunk during the warm-up.  Concordia's student newspaper, the Link, provides the coverage. Sluggish Stingers still Perfect Concordia 68 UQAM 63 After a two-hour delay to tipoff, Concordia’s men’s basketball team overcame some sluggish play and extended their

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-56528746174861093412012-01-17T19:15:00.002-05:002012-01-17T19:15:41.196-05:00

well written by Marcel Vander Wier and including quotes from St. FX Coach Steve Konchalski on the player suspensions. UPEI puts brakes on losing streak The UPEI Panthers snapped their three-game losing streak Sunday afternoon, romping to a 100-76 win over the St. F.X. X-Men in Atlantic University Sport basketball action. UPEI has now moved into a tie for third place with Acadia. Read More...

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-75647668001392369672012-01-17T18:59:00.003-05:002012-01-17T18:59:55.008-05:00

MBNA Capital Hoops Classic Media Notes... from uOttawa Sports Information The MBNA Capital Hoops Classic, which debuted in 2007 as a single men’s game and has featured a doubleheader since its second edition, quickly became one of the highlights of the CIS basketball season. The inaugural event attracted 9,730 fans, which at the time was a CIS record for a regular season game. That mark was

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-23321719750247571552012-01-16T15:55:00.000-05:002012-01-16T15:55:50.913-05:00

In what has become a Capital Region basketball tradition and a fixture on mid-January hoops calendars, cross-town rivals uOttawa Gee-Gees, pushing for a spot in the CIS Top 10, and #1 and defending National champions Carleton Ravens face off at Scotiabank Place on Wednesday night in the 6th Annual MBNA Capital Hoops Classic.  Ticket information   The Ravens continue to dominate opponents,

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-61299611421908834312012-01-16T09:38:00.001-05:002012-01-16T09:38:35.120-05:00

Yesterday's decisive loss at UPEI, ST. FX X-Men's second consecutive this week, knocked the previously-undefeated X-Men out of first place in the AUS and is likely to push them down the National rankings; as many know by now, X was shorthanded with 7 players unavailable yesterday afternoon.  These 7 players missed the important game while serving a team-imposed, one-game suspension for violation

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-46653853671339993182012-01-16T00:00:00.002-05:002012-01-16T00:00:23.799-05:00

UPEI 100, St. FX 76  The X-Men were hammered in Charlottetown as only 7 players got minutes with 6'5" Terry Thomas, 6'8" Bol Kong, 5'9" Marquis Clayton and 6'5" Shane Coupland all sitting out for up-to-now unknown reasons.  We have been in transit from a family funeral and have been unable to determine why X's lineup was so decimated today.  UPEI, bouyed by three consecutive 3's from Donathan

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-89200362483398731592012-01-15T14:11:00.002-05:002012-01-15T14:11:20.588-05:00

The first in what we truly hope is an ongoing series of entries from Dave Wells, who has been an integral part of Canadian basketball for almost 40 years.  Presently located in Lethbridge, Wellsie brings a unique candor and experienced set of insights to the CIS game.  We all look forward to continued columns from Wellsie. ************************************************************************

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-9405129970835726682012-01-15T09:42:00.001-05:002012-01-15T09:42:21.722-05:00

Two games this afternoon in the AUS with St. FX visit to UPEI for a 4 PM AT start being most interesting.  Although this is their first meeting of the AUS regular season, the teams have met on three occasions already this season with X taking all 3:  in October at Mickey Place UPEI tournament 97-88, first round of the NIKE X Invitational 101-81 and in the semi-finals of the recent Rod Shoveller

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-30644923288486064402012-01-15T08:20:00.000-05:002012-01-15T08:20:01.320-05:00

Barrett Buries Dinos With a Barrage of Buckets Dinos Cannot Stop Saskatchewan’s Whirlwind Guard Saskatchewan Huskies 90 at Calgary Dinos 83 - "Marks for Jamelle Barrett on  the double tuck- to a full layout, left handed teardrop move - 9.5!" The  Saskatchewan Huskies point guard had a 2nd half reminiscent of his 29 point  effort at Victoria last week, with the Calgary Dinos playing the

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-44452090734207525742012-01-15T07:42:00.002-05:002012-01-15T07:42:42.807-05:00

The Hawks come up with a much-needed split to stay in the race for first place, holding on for a 92-89 win over Lakehead in the second of two at Laurier.  Lakehead owns the tiebreaker between the two by virtue of their five point win on Friday night.  Plenty of fireworks again last night as, with Laurier up 3 with the ball and under 2 seconds remaining, T-Wolves 6'2" Venzal Russell stole the

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-61339279598319266022012-01-14T22:10:00.002-05:002012-01-14T22:10:48.525-05:00

Ottawa 83, Ryerson 77  In a highly entertaining and intense game with a playoff-like atmosphere, the visiting Gee-Gees survived a fourth-quarter Rams comeback as 6'1" Jacob Gibson-Bascombe knocked down a wide open 3 after a scramble following an offensive rebound to give Ottawa the lead for good and later 6'6" Vikas Gill made a key steal of a kickout look by Jahmal Jones when Ottawa nursed a 3

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-6457370571759993502012-01-14T21:12:00.001-05:002012-01-14T21:42:23.641-05:00

Dalhousie 72, Saint Mary's 70  6'6" Robert Nortmann generally had his way inside, finishing with 17 points and 15 rebounds including several on the offensive glass following his own misses as the Tigers pushed back up into the first-round playoff bye hunt with a come-from-behind win at the DalPlex in a battle of Halifax rivals.  Tigers held Saint Mary's to just 32 second-half points as 6'5"

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-76732497567325329522012-01-14T19:41:00.001-05:002012-01-14T19:41:42.184-05:00

Windsor (9-3) 78, McMaster (9-3) 74   The Lancers jumped out to a 20 point first-half lead before holding off a valiant Marauder fourth-quarter comeback attempt as Windsor swept the season series with a road win on Marauder Day in Hamilton.  Much like he did against Brock on Wednesday night, Mac's prized 6'2" freshman Adam Presutti came out of the gates on fire, scoring 11 first quarter points

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-79728106233623598562012-01-14T07:53:00.001-05:002012-01-14T07:53:24.734-05:00

Feature games in the OUA West include the second of back-to-backs at Laurier between #3 Lakehead (10-1) and the Golden Hawks (9-2).  With a victory, expect the T-Wolves to move into at least the #2 ranking (pending Carleton game at Toronto).  Another large affair has Windsor (8-3) visiting McMaster (9-2) on Marauder weekend for a 2 PM start.  Both teams have visions of a first-round bye and at a

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-53958348494134356632012-01-14T07:36:00.002-05:002012-01-14T07:36:26.495-05:00

Dinos Surprise Saskatchewan As 'O-J' Returns Dinos Upset Win Sparked By ‘O-J’ (some extra editing and box score links added) at Calgary Dinos 83 Saskatchewan Huskies 79 - Jarred Ogungbemi-Jackson  returned to the Calgary Dinos line-up with a vengeance Friday night, scoring 21  points including 2 free throws with 8 seconds left, which iced it for the home  team. Missing for 8 weeks with a hand

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-66544362630975217222012-01-14T07:13:00.000-05:002012-01-14T07:13:04.798-05:00

The AUS just got a whole lot wackier as we reach the midway point. The UNB Varsity Reds pulled off the shocker of the new year, upsetting the UPEI Panthers 80-77 at the Richard Currie Centre in Fredericton. Alex DesRoches scored 20 points and grabbed 14 rebounds to lead the Reds to their biggest win of the season and provide a huge momentum lift as they get right back into the thick of the

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-79170722572841279932012-01-13T23:20:00.000-05:002012-01-13T23:20:10.175-05:00

Lakehead 88, Laurier 83  The feature game of the night was filled with runs as the Hawks fell behind 10-0 off the start before going on a 43-23 run using their vaunted transition game for many easy scores until late in the second.  Lakehead's ability to convert defensively to limit the break combined with some hot shooting and 20 offensive rebounds on the night allowed T-Wolves to lead by 4

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-17489400074007099652012-01-13T14:53:00.004-05:002012-01-13T14:53:53.188-05:00

Yvonne Zacharias of the Vancouver Sun has an excellent piece on Nathan Yu of UBC Ron Rauch of Victoria Times-Colonist profiles Victoria's transfer from Humber College/GTA Michael Acheampong  Vikes have an important matchup tonight with Fraser Valley Manitoba / Regina video preview and story Rita Mingo of Calgary Herald  Wins at a premium for 3-7 Dinos Shoot and a miss.  Reds fall to X on

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-2142382366138231192012-01-13T14:38:00.001-05:002012-01-13T14:38:42.843-05:00

Thanks to Bill McLean and Wayne Thomas, readers have full insights into AUS and Canada West action this evening (see previous posts).  Here is a quick overview of the other games tonight, including the first of a two game series that could easily decide the OUA West pennant winner with #3 Lakehead at #10 ? Laurier. Lakehead (9-1) at Laurier (9-1) 8 PM ET    One of the potentially best matchups

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-50129058014693462792012-01-13T11:21:00.002-05:002012-01-13T11:21:44.125-05:00

While there is plenty of action across the country on the weekend, next Wednesday's Capital Hoops Classic is already garnering significant attention, at least in the Capital Region.  Expectations are for the crowd at Scotiabank Place to be in upwards of 10,000 for this annual event and House Edge Productions has a Capital Hoops Classic primer  that tees up the action.  As well, Tyson Hinz and

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-16377392925586402712012-01-13T09:03:00.000-05:002012-01-13T10:55:04.349-05:00

From Brandon Sports Info: The Brandon Bobcats and Winnipeg Wesmen battled back and forth in a see-saw affair that saw the Bobcats come away with a 70-56 win. There wee nine lead changes, but the Bobcats ran away with it thanks to a dominant third quarter in which they out-score the Wesmen 21-10. Two Bobcats finished with double-doubles and one finished one rebound shy of a double-double.

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-62931906139900492342012-01-13T08:50:00.004-05:002012-01-13T08:50:52.607-05:00

UPEI (6-2, 12 points) at UNB (2-8, 8 points) "Four point weekend" in the AUS kicks off tonight in Fredericton where the Reds will host the UPEI Panthers. Before Christmas the Panthers were undefeaated and on the cusp of a national rankings. Since then they have lost four straight games dating back to the Rod Shoveller tournament and now find themselves in a four way tie for second place and six

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-1615660282113983612012-01-12T21:00:00.000-05:002012-01-12T21:00:00.607-05:00

Dinos Hope to Halt Huskies The Calgary Dinos and Saskatchewan Huskies are 10-10 over the past 20 games they’ve played, dating back to February of 2007; but 4 of those U of S wins have come in the last 4 times they’ve met.  The Green and White (and black) are one of the CIS’ elite teams right now, as they’re ranked #4 in the CIS, they lead the Prairie Division at 6-3, and they should be

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-53926846217153653752012-01-12T12:41:00.000-05:002012-01-12T12:41:31.956-05:00

Big night for Manny Pasquale last night as he errupted for 32 points in Laurentian's 95-75 win over visiting and still-winless York Lions in Sudbury  Voyageurs get groove back Mac / Brock from Larry Moko Hamilton Spectator plus Jim Wallace of St. Catharines Standard on Brian Nahimana and last night's loss to the Marauders Injuries hamper Mustangs   Morris Dalla Costa in London Free Press (

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-69464204139626905872012-01-11T23:34:00.001-05:002012-01-11T23:34:44.487-05:00

I am travelling so tonight's report will be a summary precursor to tomorrow a.m when I have better access... To some it was a shocker in sydney as the capers hammered the offensive glass, pulling away late to stun previously unbeaten st.fx 102-88? (Going by memory). Jimmy dorsey had 23 but only 11 after the first 12 minutes but cape breton's pair of young bigs 6'7" native of denmark and 6'6"

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-4854746247832172862012-01-11T12:46:00.000-05:002012-01-11T12:46:27.284-05:00

Nice to hear from Bill Malley, long-time passionate supporter of OUA/CIS athletics, with an announcement from McMaster regarding their first recruit for next season MARAUDER BASKETBALL SNAGS FIRST RECRUIT OF 2012 McMaster men’s basketball coach Amos Connolly believes in the old adage “The early bird gets the worm” and is happy to announce his first recruiting commitment for 2012.   Cambridge

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-464727177290632112012-01-11T07:08:00.002-05:002012-01-11T07:08:45.804-05:00

AUS Tonight Saint Mary's (4-5) at Acadia (3-3)  First of four meeting this season between the Huskies and Axemen and both teams come off impressive outings with Saint Mary's renewing their commitment to the defensive end, especially guarding the ball, while Acadia finally has a healthy rotation that has had time to play together.  Both teams have a solid stable of guards and wings - the

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-91164842121478868612012-01-11T06:34:00.003-05:002012-01-11T06:34:32.987-05:00

Canada West Races Tighten T-Birds, Spartans, and Bisons Get Sweeps and Climb Standings The UBC T-Birds needed 2 wins against top Prairie rivals this past weekend, and they got the job done in the friendly confines of War Memorial Gym.  The ‘Birds, who had stumbled so badly back in late November at Calgary and Lethbridge, were losing ground to Pacific rivals, UVic, but they came out on top on

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-65830801497401379212012-01-10T21:39:00.003-05:002012-01-10T21:39:59.984-05:00

A pair of victories for Trinity Western with the Spartans hit the century mark both times led by Canada West Player-of-the-week Kyle Coston  Coston paces Spartans attack Two solid pieces on Fraser Valley first in the Chilliwack Progress  Cascades split the weekend plus Barnaby Craddock has some choice comments after the weekend in the Abbotsford Times  Foul trouble fuels coach T.J. Colello of

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-63015265310643111352012-01-10T19:30:00.002-05:002012-01-10T19:30:32.429-05:00

Given that most of the top teams had players missing for at least two weeks in October while playing for Canada at the Pan-Am Games, this season's Top 10 is very challenging to accurately lay-out (although the Top 3 teams are the top three in my opinion).  Here is the latest coaches poll: MEN'S BASKETBALL (regular season record) / votes (first-place votes) / (previous rankings) 1.

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-8587387065806087112012-01-10T08:44:00.002-05:002012-01-10T08:44:40.657-05:00

In addition to the usual OUA West action on Wednesday, AUS and OUA East teams are in action with some excellent matchups featured.  McMaster travels down the QEW to face Brock in maybe the most interesting matchup between two teams that love to get up and down the floor and shoot 3's.  Brock is likely to work their perceived size advantage inside.  Windsor has their third consecutive home game

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-62299015876056513212012-01-09T08:08:00.002-05:002012-01-09T08:08:36.175-05:00

1. Saint Francis Xavier X-Men (7-0, 16 points, 1st place) Steve Konchalski and the X-Men are rolling so far in 2012.  They've won their second straight Rod Shoveller Tournament Championship, easily swept the UNB Varsity Reds in Antigonish to remain undefeated, and Coack K won his 800th game as Head Coach on Saturday. The only negative is that highly touted recruit Bol Kong has been less

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-64851558320554953612012-01-09T07:34:00.000-05:002012-01-09T08:07:38.647-05:00

TSN's Maritime correspondent Alex J. Walling pays tribute to Coach K's 800th victory  ... UBC's student newspaper Ubyssey on-line chronicles the Thunderbirds miraculous comeback over Alberta over the weekend... Darren Zary of Saskatoon Star-Phoenix summarizes Saskatchewan's loss to UBC on Saturday... Jonar Huertas has a big game for Manitoba on Saturday at TRU; Huertas sparks Manitoba comeback...

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-70545841447600066332012-01-08T17:08:00.000-05:002012-01-08T17:22:47.530-05:00

Dalhousie 92, Memorial 82 (4 point game)  The Tigers fought off a late Sea-hawk push with a 10-0 run in the last 5 minutes that sealed the victory for a sweep eight points over the weekend to propel themselves back into a playoff position.  Dal had a double digit lead for much of the second half as 6'6" William Yengue (18 points, 5 rebounds, 8-14 shooting) and 6'1" wing Stephen Lopez (14 points,

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-82173684155184086562012-01-08T10:15:00.001-05:002012-01-08T10:15:15.525-05:00

1 PM AT/ Noon ET   Dalhousie at Memorial (4 point game)  The second of two at St. John's where the Tigers will have to do a much better job controlling the quick Sea-Hawks off the dribble.  Dal does have some size advantages inside with Rob Nortmann and William Yengue.  Casey Fox broke out for the Tigers last night.  No webcast coverage to our knowledge.  Dal has a chance to vault into fifth

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-73619943138218315952012-01-08T09:00:00.002-05:002012-01-08T09:01:25.260-05:00

Dinos Fall Short in Loss at Trinity Trinity Western Spartans 107 Calgary Dinos 97...  The Spartans earn a much-needed sweep, as hot-shooting from Kyle Coston and Calvin Westbrook sparked TWU with 28 and 22 points respectively.  While the Spartans give themselves a confidence boost for a chase of a playoff spot at 4-6, the Dinos must have doubt creeping in as they drop to 3-7, after a late

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-89956246692047382612012-01-08T08:43:00.001-05:002012-01-08T08:48:47.484-05:00

In a rematch of last season's CW quarter-final, Victoria avenged their Best-of-3 series loss with a win over Alberta, which dropped both games on their tough tour of B.C.  After 6'3" Daniel Ferguson hit a 3 to bring the Bears to within 3 at 64-61, the Vikes clinched the game with a 13-6 run, led by 6'4" Ryan MacKinnon and Humber College transfer Michael Acheampong to lead by 10 with just over a

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-46686266336658286712012-01-08T00:40:00.000-05:002012-01-08T00:40:42.883-05:00

Eddie pays tribute to Coach Konchalski's for his 800th victory. The story tonight is about about one man and one man only. My former coach- Steve Konchalski and his attaining his 800th career win. What an amazing accomplishment. To put that into perspective, I only coached some 600 games, never mind winning so many. It is a testament to Steve's ability as a leader, as a motivator, as a

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-2662000985501408972012-01-07T22:09:00.002-05:002012-01-07T22:09:34.283-05:00

StFX 87, UNB 68 (2)   X sweeps the weekend series and remains undefeated, taking sole possession of first with UPEI's loss at Saint Mary's.  Congratulations to Coach Steve Konchalski on his 800th victory. Saint Mary's 93, UPEI 86 (2)   The Huskies avenge two prior losses to the Panthers and knock UPEI from the ranks of the undefeated with a victory at home in Halifax at the Tower.  More on this

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-68755539866592770272012-01-07T21:57:00.000-05:002012-01-07T21:57:07.630-05:00

Windsor 70, Guelph 59  6'0" Josh Collins was a difference maker down the stretch once again and the Lancers got a very strong effort from 6'8" Ryan Christie at both ends of the floor in holding off the scrappy, tough Gryphons.  Christie was a factor on the defensive glass and got loose inside for some big finishes while Collins controlled the game offensively.  The Gryphs had it back to a three

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-16515666100490597692012-01-07T21:37:00.000-05:002012-01-07T21:58:51.916-05:00

Carleton 98, Laurentian 51  For the second consecutive night, #1 Carleton Ravens got off to a sluggish start, on this night even allowing visions of a major upset to fester in the minds of the host Laurentian Voyageurs who grabbed an early 8 point lead, led by 11 first-half points from Manny Pasquale, energizing the crowd at Ben Avery Gym.  However, reality set in and Carleton shook off the

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-3466541024567830652012-01-07T16:12:00.000-05:002012-01-07T17:16:55.963-05:00

Laurier solidified their hold on first place in the OUA West along with Lakehead with a convincing victory over Brock before a large crowd at Laurier.  The explosive Hawk offense was on display once again against a pourous Badger "d" with the normal cast of characters leading the way for Laurier.  The Golden Hawks had their way offensively in the opening frame, with plenty of open looks from

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-30163745783687053902012-01-07T12:00:00.000-05:002012-01-07T12:10:52.594-05:00

Six teams in action in the AUS including an interesting matchup in Halifax as Saint Mary's hosts UPEI at the Tower.  Huskies had a road-heavy schedule in the first half and appeared to be a bit more focused on the defensive end during the recent Shoveller tournament.  Panthers remain undefeated in AUS play. 4 PM AT UNB at #2 St. FX   Coach Steve Konchalski goes after win #800 and the Reds look

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-7415737576845947612012-01-07T11:08:00.000-05:002012-01-07T11:56:01.244-05:00

Four games in the OUA West with two this afternoon and a pair this evening: 3:00 pm Brock at Laurier  The inconsistent Badgers have an opportunity to move into the division title discussion with a victory over the Hawks at Laurier.  Both clubs are reasonably deep however Laurier is more experienced and is probably stronger and more physical.  Brock has fifth-year pg Andrew Kraus making many of

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-76353880173730978172012-01-07T11:00:00.000-05:002012-01-07T14:07:42.900-05:00

Four seemingly-one-sided affairs in the OUA East tonight with #1 Carleton (9-0) in Sudbury to meet Laurentian (2-7) (available on SSN Canada).  Ottawa Gee-Gees (5-4) travel to Toronto to face an energetic but winless York Lions crew in North York.  Late word out of the Gee-Gees camp is 6'6" Warren Ward, who twisted his knee early in last night's 11 point win over Laurentian in Sudbury, is not

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-35469088992710617542012-01-07T08:15:00.002-05:002012-01-07T08:19:30.638-05:00

Some great finishes in Canada West last night, most notable UBC's stunning last second comeback over Alberta and Jamelle Barrett at it again down the stretch for Saskatchewan at Victoria.  Fraser Valley had a big second half to keep the Cascades firmly in the Canada West Final Four discussion.  Also, somewhat quietly, Thompson Rivers WolfPack (5-4) now has won three straight Canada West league

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-38339994281271060962012-01-07T07:29:00.001-05:002012-01-07T07:29:04.172-05:00

Cascades Win has Dinos' Backs to the WallThe Fraser Valley Cascades got a good start to the 2nd half of their season, after a strong 2nd half propelled them to a 74 - 65 win over the visiting Calgary Dinos in Abbotsford, B.C. on Friday. Trailing 34-29 at half-time, the Cascades were getting hurt by Calgary's big men, Tyler Fidler, Boris Bakovic, and Josh Wolfram on the glass.  UFV turned on

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-15441438292643580212012-01-06T22:44:00.001-05:002012-01-06T22:44:22.669-05:00

With thanks to Lakehead SID... A hot start and even hotter second quarter gave the Lakehead Thunderwolves a 55-32 lead at the half on the strength of 8-16 shooting from 3pt land in the first half. The Mustangs showed some good toughness to open the second half however, drawing some fouls on LU's guards and beating the 'wolves to the paint off the dribble. Western would win the 3rd quarter 25-

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-84358192821280358202012-01-06T22:10:00.000-05:002012-01-06T22:41:13.264-05:00

6'5" sophomore Hughes Ryan finished a tough leaner in traffic that appeared to knocked in by a McGill defender on the way up which gave Laval the lead for good late in the overtime as Rouge et Or survived a scrappy game at home.  The Redmen led for much of the game including a six point lead with 2 minutes remaining in regulation but woeful free throw shooting and some untimely turnovers in the

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-75860655792911110252012-01-06T21:46:00.001-05:002012-01-06T22:18:21.853-05:00

Ottawa 91, Laurentian 80  The Gee-Gees broke open a tight game with an 11-4 run bridging the third and fourth quarters and later 6'3" Johnny Berhanemeskel took over with a three and then a nice feed to freshman Vikas Gill for another 3 as Ottawa extended to an 11 point lead with 3 minutes remaining to capture an important road win in Sudbury.  Gee-Gees athletic three-man Chris Anderson also had a

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-8803147362127328272012-01-06T20:17:00.000-05:002012-01-06T21:02:41.519-05:00

The X-Men came out of the gates flying, getting numerous transition scores to jump to a 12-2 lead then finished the first half on a 9-2 run to lead by 18.  Once again, 6'5" Terry Thomas was the energizer for X, attacking the rim in transition including a wonderful throw-down off a low-high pass from the low post from 6'5" Jeremy Dunn.  UNB welcomed back 6'2" Will McFee, defending AUS

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-88475348386933948242012-01-06T18:43:00.001-05:002012-01-06T19:04:27.877-05:00

Driving back home from the Concordia-UQAM contest last night, I was trying to figure out what I just saw. The host Citadins grabbed 44 rebounds- 17 on the offensive glass, made 12 more free throws than Concordia attempted going 28 for 30... held league leading scorer Kyle Desmarais to 16 and the conference's second leading scorer, Evens Laroche to 8 points. The Citadins' Eric Cote-Kougnima

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-80067765138370387902012-01-06T17:16:00.000-05:002012-01-06T17:18:08.838-05:00

Laval looks for a bit of payback tonight at home against McGill after the Redmen soundly defeated Rouge et Or in November in Montreal behind a 24 point, 6 assist effort from 6'4" sophomore guard Karim Sy-Morissette.  McGill built an early double digit lead and maintained it throughout with a strong defensive performance.  Laval's 6'6" forward Etienne Labrecque, expected to be a difference maker

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-66519561842355401052012-01-06T07:35:00.000-05:002012-01-06T08:14:41.718-05:00

14 games across the country beginning at 7 PM ET running all the way through 11 PM ET 12 games available live on web cast including two games involving top 10 teams head-to-head:  #4 Saskatchewan at #5 Victoria and #6 Alberta at #7 UBC. AUS: UNB at #2 St. FX  7 PM ET/8 PM AT on SSN Canada Quebec: McGill at Laval 8 PM ET on Rouge et Or TV OUA West: Western at #3 Lakehead 8 PM ET on SSN Canada

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-20421541605148944742012-01-06T06:32:00.004-05:002012-01-06T06:32:58.797-05:00

Wayne previews the Ravens and Gee-Gees men's and women's second half in this morning's Ottawa Citizen Ravens rev up for something special The best appears yet to come for the men's and women's teams from Carleton and the University of Ottawa, and when it comes to the Ravens' men's team, that's really saying something, reports Wayne Kondro Continue Reading...

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-17536822949113790502012-01-06T06:02:00.002-05:002012-01-06T06:37:46.259-05:00

Bakovic Debuts in Canada West Play Task Is Clear in Trip to The Fraser Valley As they start the 2nd half of the Canada West regular season, the 3-5 Calgary Dinos are aware of the necessity to win games, if they are to get into the mix as far as playoffs are concerned.  But, as 5th year post man, Dustin Reding , points out, "We're just focussed on playing well on Friday against Fraser 

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-40274627498924361322012-01-05T21:28:00.001-05:002012-01-06T07:35:49.512-05:00

Stingers controlled the flow virtually from start to finish, jumping out to a 10-3 lead and never trailing thereafter, extending the lead to 8 after three quarters and then 6'2" Decee Krah clinched the game with three 3's in the fourth as Concordia remained undefeated in the "Q".  UQAM stayed in the game primarily on the foul line as Eric Cote-Kougnima went 17-17 (shades of Waterloo's Graham

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-33141762746405882982012-01-05T20:57:00.001-05:002012-01-06T06:27:52.482-05:00

Jumping out to a 14-2 lead off the opening tip, the Axemen never looked back, jumping to a 17 point first quarter lead that was quickly extended to more than 30 in the second quarter in a romp over the visiting Capers in Wolfville.  Coming off a foot injury that kept him sidelined for much of the first half, 6'3" third-year shooting guard Anthony Sears came out of the gate on fire, knocking down

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-37480317750948431842012-01-05T19:47:00.000-05:002012-01-05T19:47:30.689-05:00

Howard Tsumura of the Vancouver Province does it again with a fine article on the athletic UBC freshman who many feel will be the next great T-Birds player. Williams Surrounded by History On the night that the current Canada West season opened back in mid-November at UBC’s War Memorial Gym, the hardcourt mojo was so thick in the air that it almost seemed like the gods of Thunderbirds men’s

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-45623228526692850482012-01-05T19:42:00.000-05:002012-01-05T19:42:14.394-05:00

The Thunderbirds kick off 2012 at home this weekend against the East Division's elite. The division-leading Alberta Golden Bears pay a visit on Friday, and the CIS No. 4 Saskatchewan Huskies will put their four-game win streak on the line on Saturday.  Tip-off on Friday is at 8:00 p.m.  Saturday's game will begin at 7:00 p.m.No. 7 UBC Thunderbirds2011 conference record: 4-2 (2nd, West)2011

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-46333371490281279042012-01-05T19:17:00.001-05:002012-01-05T19:17:06.742-05:00

The surprising Cape Breton Capers, a team that had heavy losses due to graduation, have had a nice start to the season despite having interim Coach Thom Gillespie take over well into the autumn.  6'1" Jimmy Dorsey remains and he has authored an All-Canadian type season offensive thus far.  After Dorsey and 6'5" Al Aliovic, however the Capers are young but are playing a different style than in

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-37876221685457209792012-01-05T07:18:00.001-05:002012-01-05T07:18:52.945-05:00

League's Top Teams Tangle'Big 4' Clash on The CoastA possible Final 4 preview jump-starts the 2nd half of Canada West's regular season this weekend in Victoria and Vancouver as the Alberta Golden Bears (6-2) and the Saskatchewan Huskies (5-2) cross the Rockies, Monashees, and Cascades (little Geography for you) to challenge the Victoria Vikes (8-0) and the UBC T-Birds (4-2).  There are several

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-11127457233291688772012-01-05T07:12:00.000-05:002012-01-05T07:12:09.580-05:00

Brock 77, Guelph 74  6'8" Brian Nahimana gave the Badgers the lead for good midway through the third quarter, part of a 10-0 Brock run and then later the Badgers salted the game with an 11-3 run late in the fourth to defeat the scrappy, tough Guelph Gryphons.  Guelph refused to go away despite a 3 for 16 effort from star wing 6'2" Dan McCarthy.  6'1" Andrew Kraus led the way for Brock with 21

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-9904536614925763222012-01-04T21:49:00.003-05:002012-01-06T07:36:18.642-05:00

Laurier 110, Waterloo 60  The Hawks jumped all over their cross-town rivals, jumping out to a 16 point first quarter lead, extending it to 26 at the half and then completely blowing out the Warriors in the second half in maybe the most one-sided game in the history of the rivalry.  All 12 Hawks played at least 10 minutes, led by 6'6" Max Allin who had 21 (19 at the half) including 5-8 3's, 6'5"

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-29783614389892214012012-01-04T18:52:00.002-05:002012-01-04T18:52:21.275-05:00

Guelph at Brock game is available on UStream SSN Canada has tonight's Mac at Windsor game The Battle of Kitchener-Waterloo will be shown live on Hawkcast live

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-69958221756929509922012-01-04T17:52:00.004-05:002012-01-04T17:52:27.759-05:00

Coach K is still going strong with no sign of easing up as he approaches win number 800 of his historic career.  Monty Mosher of the Halifax Chronicle-Herald tees up the coming milestone Coach K nears 800 wins Mac / Windsor continues to develop into one of the better rivalries in the nation as ex-Mac Assistant Chris Oliver leads the Lancers against Amos Connolly, who played for Mac when Oliver

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-22298987727286232522012-01-04T07:48:00.001-05:002012-01-04T07:48:10.655-05:00

Three OUA West games kick off the second half of the CIS regular season tonight with a pair of title contenders meeting in Windsor as McMaster visits the St. Denis Center to face the Lancers (game available on SSN Canada).  The Marauders have handed their point guard duties to 6'2" freshman Adam Presutti and he has not disappointed.  Another first year recruit 6'8" Nathan McCarthy has been solid

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-8105531066342163472012-01-04T06:46:00.001-05:002012-01-04T06:46:06.287-05:00

Dreams of Glory ... 6 Teams ChasingIf you want to know how important a good point guard is to a CIS basketball team you need look no further than this group of 6 teams with a combined record of 13 wins vs 32 defeats through the 1st half.  No fewer than 4 of them ... Calgary, Regina, Trinity Western, and Winnipeg ... were without their starting point man for much or all of this past Fall. 

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-16344385804499857982012-01-03T19:09:00.000-05:002012-01-03T19:58:35.825-05:00

After last season's strong finish and a roster filled with high-level talent, expectations were very high for Acadia Axemen to push for and remain in the CIS Top 10 this season.  While Axemen certainly do have quality players from the one through the five, this season's roster is filled with new players, with only now two returnees from last season's rotation.  Sprinkle a few injuries, not having

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-26782903293620756752012-01-02T21:14:00.000-05:002012-01-02T21:14:09.568-05:00

Sportstream.ca's Bill MacLean, our Halifax correspondent who did such a marvelous job commenting on SSN Canada at the Shoveller this past week, offers our readers his thoughts on the recent tournament at Dal. Shoveller Thoughts by Bill MacLean Panthers Are Legitimate Tim Kendrick's Panthers are legit. A disappointing performance versus Dalhousie in the Bronze Medal game aside, UPEI

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-80891727927336581502012-01-02T09:35:00.000-05:002012-01-02T10:21:50.274-05:00

With heavy roster turnover from graduation and injury among others, Western Mustangs Head Coach Brad Campbell faces a second half with virtually the entire roster made up of 1st and 2nd year players.  Losing three starters including First team OUA West All-Star Andy Wedemire (playing in Europe), was difficult enough however the loss of veteran 6'6" forward Garrett Olexiuk to ongoing knee problems

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-14126203594387704962012-01-01T21:26:00.001-05:002012-01-01T21:30:04.324-05:00

One game we did not report on this past week was Lakehead's 10 point win over UQAM, the final game of Classique des Citadins in Montreal.  The Wolves finished with a perfect 3-0 record in the tournament and get set to host Western Mustangs at home in Thunder Bay this coming weekend.  UQAM has a pair of home games in the Q:  Thursday night against Concordia and Saturday when Citadins host Bishop's

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-75140064459084952972012-01-01T21:17:00.001-05:002012-01-01T21:23:06.100-05:00

Part One of another wonderfully comprehensive piece from Wayne forecasting the second half of the Canada West season on a team-by-team basis. 'New Season' Honours up for Grabs Canada West Teams Re-charge The 14 teams in Canada West are gearing up for a return to serious hostilities as League play is set to resume on the January 6 - 7 weekend.  Some squads played in tournaments ... UBC-O,

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-41613358204474110622012-01-01T12:17:00.001-05:002012-01-01T12:17:16.687-05:00

Excellent piece by Nathan Crosby, Sports Editor of the Omega, Thompson Rivers University's Independent Student Newspaper recapping the 'Pack's first half and previewing what it may take for TRU to grab a Canada West playoff spot. Eight games into the year the WolfPack men are a .500 basketball team at 4-4. They have already matched last year’s win total. With the first half of the season

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-13769407773964409012012-01-01T11:50:00.000-05:002012-01-01T11:50:11.729-05:00

Canada West - Final Four Preview this weekend ?:  It is a case of jumping right into the fire for both the Alberta Golden Bears and Saskatchewan Huskies as both embark on likely the most difficult and important road trip of their seasons, each with single-game visits to UBC and Victoria this weekend (Friday/Saturday).  With all due respect to several other Canada West programs, many believe

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-89897294466423097862011-12-31T20:01:00.003-05:002011-12-31T20:01:45.046-05:00

In the third place game (played after X captured the tournament championship), the host Dal Tigers grabbed a confidence-building 74-66 win over UPEI Panthers and did so in come-from-behind fashion.  Many would agree that this week was a coming out party of sorts for Dal's freshman point guard Ritchie Kanza Mata from Scarborough Mother Teresa and he punctuated a solid week with a 16 point, 11

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-55648325107137072832011-12-31T19:13:00.003-05:002011-12-31T19:13:47.508-05:00

Calgary 0-3 on California Tour Trailing 48-35 at half-time against Biola University (La Mirada, CA) the Calgary Dinos could not close the gap in the 2nd, so, for the 3rd straight night, they are beaten by a Golden State Athletic Conference squad ... The Biola Eagles prevailed by a clear 80-65 margin, as the Dinos appeard leg weary in this contest, and had real trouble generating any consistent

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-79899593441695280362011-12-31T12:21:00.006-05:002011-12-31T14:05:04.821-05:00

A 17-4 run to finish off the second quarter led by 6'0" Will Donkoh and 6'5" Shane Coupland was the difference as the #2 X-Men claimed another Rod Shoveller Memorial tournament championship with a win over the #10 Stingers.  After a lighting problem delayed the game for several minutes, X's zone press began creating turnovers, breaking open a tight 3 point game and give St. FX a double digit

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-30624913983931085212011-12-31T09:25:00.001-05:002011-12-31T10:13:40.306-05:00

This afternoon's Shoveller championship game features two very similar teams that are deep, athletic, love to push up and force the action defensively and have star, All-Canadian type players at the very top.  Both teams followed similar paths to the championship, coming from behind in the second half of their games by wearing their opponents down with superior depth and then taking advantage of

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-68597655380602127792011-12-31T07:36:00.000-05:002011-12-31T07:36:19.765-05:00

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-40546437567157618272011-12-31T07:07:00.001-05:002011-12-31T07:25:23.019-05:00

X-Men rebound to defeat Panthers (Glen MacDonald Halifax Chronicle-Herald) Concordia held on to beat Dal with their athletic, pressure d causing 31 Tiger turnovers.  The Stingers overcame a five point deficit after three quarters to move to this afternoon's championship game vs. St. FX in a battle of two Top 10 teams.  Dalhousie got a career-high 24 points from freshman Ritchie Kanza (

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-76100810441277396832011-12-31T07:03:00.000-05:002011-12-31T07:03:49.123-05:00

The Vikings took charge in the third quarter amid a flurry of Brandon turnovers to win the 45th Wesmen Classic title, capturing the championship game going away over the Bobcats. Valley City State 90 Brandon 58 Sekani Milligen (Valley City State) 25 pts Emerick Ravier (Brandon) 14 pts The Valley City State University Vikings defeated the Brandon University Bobcats 90-58 in the Championship

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-56446115407489180712011-12-30T13:33:00.016-05:002011-12-30T22:09:59.606-05:00

Concordia 79, Dalhousie 75 (Shoveller championship semi-final) Ryerson 87, Laval 84  The Rams captured their own RNIT championship for the first time in recent memory going back to the days of the Ed Dearmon Classic.  Rye took charge in the third quarter with a 32-11 run to lead by as many as 24 with 6'9" Bjorn Michaelsen scoring 9 points during the run with 6'3" Jordan Gauthier (team-leading 20

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-45894528303806469882011-12-30T12:28:00.001-05:002011-12-30T12:29:00.394-05:00

A battle of teams undefeated in AUS conference play highlights an intriguing night of Semi Final action at the Rod Shoveller Tournament at Dalplex. The first game tips off at 6:00 and pits the UPEI Panthers (6-0, 2nd place in AUS) versus the nationally ranked Saint Francis Xavier X-Men (5-0, 1st place). The nightcap has the host Dalhousie Tigers looking to upset the Concordia Stingers ranked

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-13952030456151396672011-12-30T12:05:00.000-05:002011-12-30T12:05:25.357-05:00

With a stable of explosive, scoring wings and forwards, Saint Mary's Huskies have the offensive firepower to make the final season of Coach Ross Quackenbush's career an eventful one.  Unfortunately, the Huskies have been pourous defensively, allowing 91.1 ppg and allowing teams shoot 48% from the floor, both worst in AUS, the main reasons why SMU was an un-Huskie-like 2-5 in the AUS first half. 

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Concordia Plays Like Top Team   The Concordia-Irvine Eagles were voted the top team in NAIA competition from all of the 114 schools across the U.S., and they looked the part on Thursday night in a swarming defensive effort as they dropped the UC Dinos 110-67. The Eagles pressure forced an amazing 34 turnovers from the shell-shocked Dinos, who shot it well enough, when they could get it safely

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X-Men win in Kong's debut  (Monty Mosher Halifax Chronicle-Herald) Wesmen shut out of Classic final  (Winnipeg Free Press) Fourth quarter rally propels Wolves to road win  (Thunder Bay News Watch) Huskies fall to Bisons

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Brandon 69 UBC Okanagan 40 (45th Wesmen Classic Championship semi-final)  Emerick Ravier (Brandon) 14 pts Player of the Game; Yassine Ghomari (UBCO) 20 pts.; The Brandon University Bobcats advanced to the Championship Final of the 2011 Coca Cola Wesmen Classic with a convincing 69-40 semi final victory over the UBC Okanagan Heat. Brandon had control of the contest after the opening ten minutes

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-29881663702232288692011-12-29T10:55:00.001-05:002011-12-29T10:56:15.621-05:00

Cougars Maul Dinos In Azuza... Despite the first appearance from Boris Bakovic in a Dinos uniform , Calgary were mauled 96-58 by the Azuza Pacific Cougars in game 1 of their California tour on Wednesday. Calgary was soundly beaten in both halves, with the Cougars ending the 1st at 52-32, and continuing with a 44-26 margin in the 2nd.  The NAIA team from the Los Angeles suburbs shot 50% from the

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-66913178857637850452011-12-29T07:05:00.000-05:002011-12-29T07:05:49.368-05:00

Cunningham sparks Wesmen  (Winnipeg Free Press) Point guard return spurs Wesmen win (Winnipeg Sun) A Brave front for Huskies (Fort McMurray Today) Thomson, Wolves slam Redmen with big second half (Thunder Bay news watch)

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-24240272938202178792011-12-28T13:42:00.011-05:002011-12-29T05:31:17.030-05:00

Wednesday, December 28, 2011 EVENING GAMES (see below for afternoon results and summaries): RNIT Game 3:  Ryerson 101, Sheridan 79  Fifth-year veteran Luke Staniscia recorded a double-double, including a game-high 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Jahmal Jones and Bjorn Michaelsen chipped in 18 each, and the Ryerson Rams rolled over the OCAA's Sheridan Bruins 101-79 on Wednesday evening to

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-90575876587531687632011-12-28T12:40:00.001-05:002011-12-28T12:40:24.952-05:00

A breakdown of opening day action from the annual Rod Shoveller Tournament at Dalplex beginning Thursday, December 29th. The Shoveller is one of the premier holiday tournaments in the country and is a favorite amongst local Halifax basketball enthusiasts. Acadia versus UPEI, 1:00 Atlantic (webcast: ssncanada) Game featuring two teams with dramatically different seasons thus far. Coming off

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California squads severe tests for Dinos Also, article on Carleton's Kyle Smendziuk in this morning's Ottawa Citizen Monty Mosher's Shoveller Preview article in Halifax Herald Ken Wiebe from Winnipeg Sun with Wesmen Classic article Huskies take on Wesmen Classic

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Rouge et Or lost a heartbreaking Quebec league championship game to Concordia last March and now embark on a re-building program after losing 40 plus points per game from their two veterans J.F. Beaulieu-Mahieux and 6'4" Jerome Turcotte, who had one season of eligibility remaining but decided to pursue a law career in Montreal and is presently working through bar exams. Coach Jacques Paiement Jr.

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-59080995056714054992011-12-27T17:06:00.000-05:002011-12-27T17:06:12.147-05:00

With arguably the best and deepest array of raw talent in possibly the entire CIS, the Brock Badgers are oozing with potential that optimistic second-year coach Brad Rootes is busily moulding into a group that is able to take advantage of what usually is more athleticism and talent than their opponents. If the first half is any indication, much of what has to occur to push Brock (6-2 in OUA

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Fresh off a multi-year run as a CIS Nationals title contender during which UBC Head Coach Kevin Hanson enjoyed the luxury of multiple, high-quality upperclassmen making the majority of the offensive decisions from the point - last season for example with Alex Murphy and Josh Whyte, the Birds usually had two, fifth-year All-Star calibre points on the floor at once - , heavy graduation losses have

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-82479661757713396752011-12-27T12:40:00.002-05:002011-12-27T12:46:10.036-05:00

One of the more difficult challenges for players and coaching staffs is the usually-long (3+ week) layoff between the last weekend of the First Half and the re-start of the season just after Christmas Day.  A growing list of teams over the years have scheduled trips to more temperate climes, usually either Florida, Arizona or California, for training camp with games and/or scrimmages against U.S.

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-43052433731611498772011-12-27T12:06:00.000-05:002011-12-27T12:06:26.128-05:00

With consecutive CIS Nationals appearances under their belts, Lakehead Thunderwolves are well past the "happy to be there" stage and are properly setting their sites on a mid-March Sunday afternoon championshipgame appearance in Halifax.  Raising their first-ever Wilson Cup banner earlier this season was a defining milestone for the program but coach Scott Morrison, who ressurected this program

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-39742612791598826082011-12-26T17:31:00.000-05:002011-12-26T17:31:04.465-05:00

As has been the case over the last couple of seasons, the Guelph Gryphons continue to show tremendous resiliancy in the face of adversity. Last season, major injuries almost completely devastated the Gryphs roster however Coach Chris O'Rourke, in arguably the finest coaching moment of his career, orchestrated an improbable run at the playoffs as Guelph rode their seniors to a post-season berth.

Mark Wacykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03372826752493746178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4209298593928668104.post-48939743511831054432011-12-26T16:54:00.000-05:002011-12-26T16:54:23.280-05:00

With the quality size, experience and depth befitting of a Top 10 team and OUA West pennant contender, coach Peter Campbell's Hawks finished the first half of the regular season at 7-1, the only blemish being a double digit loss at #1 Carleton on the final evening of the first half. With a rotation that goes at least 10 deep, plenty of size in the 1 through 4 positions, and a very experienced

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