Written by Tymal Simpson
Quebec Based Scout
The 2024-25 RSEQ CEGEP Men's Basketball Playoffs took place this weekend from February 28th - March 2nd, 2025, at Bishop's University in Sherbrooke, Quebec. The event showcased some of the most exciting young talent in the country, with players putting on a clinic and solidifying their status as future university athletes. It was a pleasure to watch these athletes compete at a high level, as they pushed their teams toward the ultimate goal of capturing the provincial Championship. In the end, Brebeuf emerged as the champions, and they will now move on to represent the RSEQ at the CCAA National Championship in Montreal, Quebec, held at Vanier College on March 11th -15th, 2025. Below, we take a look at the top 10 standouts who impressed throughout these playoffs:
1. Edouard Gauthier — 6’5 Guard, Brebeuf
Edouard Gauthier was the driving force behind Brebeuf’s balanced offensive attack. As an advanced and efficient three-level scorer, he excelled in creating offense both on and off the ball, sharing ball-handling duties with his teammates. Gauthier was particularly lethal from beyond the arc but also possessed sneaky athleticism, excellent shot selection, and a remarkable ability to navigate screens. He thrived in the midrange and always let the game come to him, making him one of the most complete players in the league.
2. Sean Duff — 6’1 Guard, Montmorency
Sean Duff had been a key contributor in leading Montmorency to the final, showcasing his explosive perimeter scoring. A dynamic and aggressive player, Duff had multiple high-scoring performances in the playoffs, demonstrating his ability to score in bunches, especially in isolation situations. His quickness, smooth ball-handling, and sharp shooting made him his a constant offensive threat. When he heated up, Duff could take over a game, shifting momentum with his playmaking ability and scoring outbursts. His leadership and energy were vital to his team's success.
3. Isaac Pierre Louis — 6’6 Wing, Brebeuf
Isaac Pierre Louis was a versatile and long-wing player who excelled in a variety of roles on the court. Whether operating as a primary scorer or as a facilitator, his ability to impact the game was felt on both ends of the floor. Pierre Louis was especially dangerous when driving downhill, using his length and explosiveness to finish strong at the rim. His defensive versatility allowed him to disrupt opposing offenses, while his skill set and basketball IQ enabled him to seamlessly transition between roles, making him a matchup nightmare.
4. Jeremie Lalonde — 6’4 Guard, Vanier
A high-IQ guard with a wiry frame, Jeremie Lalonde played with poise and control, particularly when leading the fast break. His smooth finish around the rim and soft touch made him an effective scorer in transition. Lalonde’s ability to read the floor and make the right decisions at a high pace made him a key piece in Vanier’s offense. His calm demeanor on the court and leadership skills were vital to keeping his team composed during high-pressure moments.
5. Tayshaun Thomas — 6’4 Guard, Champlain St-Lambert
Tayshaun Thomas was a highly efficient guard, playing with intelligence both on and off the ball. His solid frame and athleticism allowed him to guard multiple positions, while his instincts shone in transition. Thomas also led the RSEQ in steals and three-point percentage during the regular season, further highlighting his defensive prowess and ability to space the floor with a reliable perimeter shot. His all-around play and ability to make an impact in various facets of the game made him an invaluable asset for Champlain St-Lambert.
6. Nick Masengo — 6’7 Forward, Sainte-Foy
Nick Masengo was an athletic and versatile defender who could guard multiple positions on the floor. While he showed flashes of perimeter shooting, his true value lay in his ability to finish at the rim and provide a defensive presence. Masengo’s length and athleticism made him an intriguing prospect with the potential to develop into a two-way player at the next level. His ability to cover ground quickly on defense and contribute as a secondary scorer made him a key player for Sainte-Foy.
7. Giorgio Azzi — 6’2 Point Guard, Brebeuf
Giorgio Azzi was a strong, sturdy point guard with exceptional basketball IQ. Known for his elite pace and court vision, Azzi was the floor general for Brebeuf, guiding the offense with his calming leadership. His European-style play, use of body position, and ability to navigate defenders made him a master at controlling the tempo of the game. A reliable shooter from the perimeter, Azzi was a key piece in Brebeuf's playoff push, and his ability to manage the floor was instrumental in his team’s success.
8. Ludovic Tournier — 6’7 Forward, Vanier
At 6’7, Ludovic Tournier was a three-level scorer with a high release point. Though not exceptionally athletic, Tournier made up for it with his basketball IQ and ability to score in bunches. Operating mainly off the ball, he was an excellent floor spacer, and his knack for finishing at the rim made him a versatile offensive weapon. His ability to make shots from all areas of the floor, combined with his length, made him an important piece of Vanier’s rotation.
9. Noah Manikoglu — 6’1 Guard, John Abbott
Noah Manikoglu was an elite three-point marksman who proved his ability to shoot from deep with exceptional efficiency. Known for his quick release, he was dangerous off pin-downs and curls, able to make shots from anywhere on the floor. Manikoglu also remained poised under pressure and could quickly heat up, making him a key asset in John Abbott's offense. His ability to space the floor and provide instant offense was a game-changer in tight playoff matchups.
10. Junior Uzubahimana — 6’2 Guard, Dawson
Junior Uzubahimana had been a consistent force in Dawson’s rebuild. As a two-way threat, he was equally capable on the perimeter and on defense. His tenacious approach to both ends of the floor, combined with his ability to impact the game as a scorer and defender, made him a standout player for Dawson. With his gritty playstyle and leadership, Uzubahimana was well-positioned to contribute at the U SPORTS level. His work ethic and determination were a driving force behind Dawson's success in the playoffs.
Honourable mentions:
Randy Tshizanga - Vanier
Samuel Desrochers - Brebeuf
Alexandre Fortin - Montmorency
Julius Ferguson - Brebeuf
Enzo Rios Rosado - Sainte-Foye
These players represented the future of Canadian basketball, and their performances during the RSEQ CEGEP Men’s Basketball Playoffs were pivotal in shaping the next generation of talent in the country. With Brebeuf now moving forward to the CCAA National Championship in Montreal, Quebec, the RSEQ has set the stage for more exciting basketball in the coming weeks.
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