RSEQ Cegep Prospect Watch: 10 Recruits to Monitor

Written by Tymal Simpson, Quebec based Scout at The Maple Minute

In the world of basketball scouting, discovering the next hidden gem is always an exhilarating endeavor. The RSEQ Cegep league in Quebec has consistently produced remarkable talent over the years, and this season is no exception. In this article, we will introduce you to the top 10 RSEQ Cegep prospects, each with their unique strengths and skills.

1. Omar Migues-Hibeljic - BREBEUF 6’6 G/F

Omar Migues-Hibeljic stands out as one of the most intriguing players in the entire RSEQ, aiming to establish himself as one of the country's top prospects this season. His explosive scoring and elite slashing skills make him a constant threat, solidifying his place among the RSEQ's top talents. With his remarkable size and strong ball-handling skills, he has become an elite three-level threat. Whether it's creating his own shot off the catch, the dribble, driving inside, or excelling beyond the arc, Migues-Hibeljic is a constant threat. His impressive performance includes currently ranking 2nd in the conference in scoring (23.5) and a season-high 44 points in an overtime loss at Vanier.

2. Raphael Dumont - VANIER 6’3 G

Raphael Dumont is at the center of a debate about who is the best lead guard in RSEQ. Standing at six-foot-three, Dumont excels at scoring from all levels, showcasing crafty finishing and the ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc. He is currently leading the conference in scoring (25.5) with near 50-40-90 shooting percentages, boasting 55.4% from the field, 38.2% from 3pt range, and an impressive 94.4% from the free-throw stripe. Dumont's shooting prowess, particularly in catch-and-shoot and off-screen situations, makes him a lethal threat on the court.

3. Edouart Benoit - BREBEUF 6’8 G/F

With a growing demand for shooters of considerable size, the reigning RSEQ MVP, Edouart Benoit, has emerged as a top national prospect. The six-foot-eight forward possesses a unique combination of size, shooting ability, and speed, making him a versatile player capable of guarding multiple positions effectively. His size and functional

athleticism allow him to find open looks from beyond the arc. Although opposing size

can pose challenges, Benoit works diligently to make adjustments. On the defensive end, he can defend the paint and switch to guard a perimeter player when necessary.

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4. Christian Payawal DAWSON 6’1 G

Christian Payawal possesses one of the best ball-handling abilities in the 2024 class in Quebec. As the reigning RSEQ champion's lead guard, he handles opposing players and ball pressure with ease. Payawal is a nightmare for opponents in transition, weaving through traffic and finishing with an array of moves around the rim. On the defensive end, he applies his own ball pressure and causes problems for opposing guards. In his third year at Dawson, Payawal is expected to take on a larger scoring role, following key departures in their backcourt.

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5. Gabriel Boudages OUTAOUAIS 6’7 F

Leading the conference in blocks (3.3) and grabbing almost 15 rebounds, Gabriel Boudages is a force when it comes to crashing the glass and protecting the rim. The six-foot-seven forward possesses exceptional length, athleticism, and is a terror on the defensive end. His sure hands and the ability to finish above the rim with contact, combined with his speed and jumping ability, make him a defensive nightmare for opponents. Boudages, after transferring from Brebeuf into a more prominent role with Outaouais, not only proves effective without the ball in his hands but can also score at a high level when needed.

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6. Brice-Philippe Fandio SHERBROOKE 6’1 G

Brice Philip-Fandio is the go-to choice for teams in need of a floor general who can consistently shoot from deep. With a high basketball IQ, he excels in running an offense and distributing the ball at a high level. The six-foot-one guard's unique ability to navigate through tight spaces, coupled with his consistency in knocking down shots from beyond the arc, has him currently ranked 4th in scoring (19.3) and 3rd in assists (5.3). A stellar summer with Brookwood Elite AAU highlights his skills. Despite his lack of size, Philip-Fandio is a capable defender with quick feet and hands to disrupt opposing ball handlers.

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7. Yanis Malanda - VANIER 6’6 F

Yanis Malanda is an elite physical two-way prospect, known for using his exceptional motor and athleticism to attack closeouts and apply constant pressure at the rim. Playing a significant role for the 1st seeded Vanier Cheetahs, Malanda's relentless approach results in him ranking 3rd in the conference in rebounding (11.0). He is adept at cleaning up around the basket, ensuring second-chance points for his team. What

goes somewhat underrated in his game is his ability to facilitate and make the right reads as a secondary playmaker. It is hoped that he will display more willingness to step outside and develop his offensive game further.

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8. Isaiah Graham Roche - DAWSON 6’5 F

Isaiah Graham Roche is a pivotal player for the defending RSEQ champions, Dawson College, excelling on both ends of the floor. His strength and versatility allow him to attack the hoop, get inside, and finish effectively around the basket. On the defensive end, he possesses immense upside, blocking shots, securing rebounds, and being capable of switching onto any opposing player. While he does not frequently rely on his jumper, he can knock down open looks when given the opportunity. There is potential for him to develop his perimeter game, although he is not yet crafty enough as a ball-handler to handle isolation scoring.

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9. Sean Duff - MONTMORENCY 6’2 G

Sean Duff is a dynamic scoring guard who leads the best offense in the conference. The six-foot-two guard's smooth, poised, and calm ball-handling style stands out. Duff's swift release on his jump shot, coupled with his ability to get good elevation off the ground, makes him a scoring force. He can finish through contact off two feet or execute runners when faced with a larger interior presence. Duff's high basketball IQ is evident in his ability to read defenses and make pinpoint passes. His intelligence on the court enables him to deceive defenders and make the right reads in the pick-and-roll game.

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10. Alexis Laforest - OUTAOUAIS 6’1 G

Alexis Laforest is undoubtedly the most surprising performer of the early season. The six-foot-one rookie guard from Nicolas-Gatineau has been nothing short of impressive in Outaouais' remarkable 3-1 start to the season. Laforest exhibits exceptional shot IQ with the ability to score in both catch-and-shoot and off screens/movement situations. The rookie guard currently ranks 3rd in the entire conference in scoring (19.8) while sitting 2nd in three-point percentage, scorching the nets at 46.9% from deep. Laforest is a name to watch as the season especially with two big upcoming matchups against Vanier and then on the road against Dawson. This will be a significant test not only to determine if the Griffons are legitimate contenders after their impressive start but also to gauge how the rookie point guard compares to two of the elite guards in the RSEQ conference.

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Conclusion:

The RSEQ Cegep league is a goldmine of basketball talent, and these top prospects represent the cream of the crop. As they continue to develop their skills and showcase their abilities on the court, it's clear that they possess the potential to compete at the NCAA and top USPORTS levels. Keep a watchful eye on these players, as they may soon be making waves on a national and international stage, demonstrating the depth of talent that the RSEQ Cegep league has to offer.

Honorable Mentions:

Liam Daniel Ngos, Herman Koffi, Antoine Boubez, Keysean Dumont, Roi Angat, Miles King, Tayshaun Thomas, Isaac Pierre-Louis, Junior Uzubahimana, Akijah Leith