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My 2024-2025 MHSAA Varsity Boys Top Ten With the Manitoba Varsity Boys AAAA Final Four coming up on Thursday night, I thought it might be time to drop who I thought were my top ten varsity boys players for the 2024-2025 season. It has been a fun and interesting year with lots of competition and great games, even so far through the first couple games of provincials. Below are the players I have listed from 1-10, along with a few honourable mentions at the bottom. Magnus Carlos | 12 | G | 6’3” | Vincent Massey Collegiate Arguably the most complete player of this entire list, having the tools on both ends to affect the game. Carlos has always been a force going towards the rim, finishing through contact or stopping up for a pull-up jumper. What he’s added to his skillset this year is a consistent three ball. It allows him to be an even more dangerous weapon on offence. He’s also a great passer and will find pockets to give guys easy buckets, whether that’s drawing defenders on a drive, or in the pick and roll. On defence, he bothers ball handlers and will jump passing lanes for steals off-ball. He is a willing rebounder on defence, which will see him fill the box score by the end of games. Carlos has shown to be the clear cut number one player in the province this season, which is why he has earned the cover photo. Settimo Yugu | 11 | F | 6’8” | Kildonan East Collegiate Photo from David Harmon of Settimo Yugu Yugu is your prototypical modern forward/big. He’s athletic enough to run the floor, can put the ball on the floor against defenders, and has the ability to shoot the ball from deep. He does not mind punching in a dunk with defenders in the area, so be ready when he comes down the lane off a screen or as the screener. Yugu has the length to shoot over similar size defenders, finish over them in the paint off offensive boards and be a bother on defence. He can switch onto guards on the perimeter, jump passing lanes, and block shots on drives in typical big man duties. His versatility being able to play on the perimeter or in the paint has helped his Reivers to the number one spot in the power rankings and seed in provincials. Jayden Westerlund | 12 | F | 6’6” | Vincent Massey Collegiate Westerlund is the only player on this list currently committed to play at the next level, where he will take his talents to coach Mike Raimbault and the University of Winnipeg Wesmen. He did see a role change this year, playing more of the five for the Trojans, than his typical spot on the perimeter. This did not stop Westerlund from still providing a huge impact for his team. Showing off his terrific athleticism, a drop pass away from a thunderous finish in the half court or as a rim runner. When he did get the opportunity to show off his skills on the perimeter, Westerlund can shoot the ball from three well off catch and shoots, while also being able to put it on the floor and get to the cup. He did show flashes of creation as well at times which would complete his offensive game. Westerlund is a willing rebounder on both ends of the floor. Having that perimeter player background helps him on defence, being able to be a Swiss Army knife on that end. Very intrigued to see how his skills translate to the next level. Terry Ogbeide | 10 | G/F | 6’5” | Kildonan East Collegiate The first of two Grade 10’s on this list. Ogbeide had a strong summer with team Manitoba at 15U Nationals, being named an All-Canadian. It seems to have continued into the high school season, as he has only kept that roll going for Kildonan East. The forward is a crazy athlete who is dangerous in the open floor or getting downhill, especially with his right hand. He and Yugu create a scary pick and roll duo with their differing skillsets. Ogbeide has no real issue taking on some ball handling duties and the Reivers have their better possessions when he gets more touches. That athleticism he possesses also helps him be a plus defender on the other end, and be carful with cross court passes. He’s shown improvement as a shooter and will have tons of time to keep developing that part of his game. Ogbeide is also an underrated rebounder, willing to get in there and get the offence going off a miss. Untapped potential with tons of time for him to harness it. Daven Sharma | 12 | G | 6’0” | Sisler High School Daven Sharma at last season’s WIT Sharma is regarded as the best pure scorer in the entire province and for good reason. He has all three levels covered and has been shown that respect from teams all season. Defences have had struggles trying to contain him and he’s seen many different looks to try and get him off his game. The struggle teams find trying to guard him is what are you content giving up? Sharma can get to the bucket and finish, will stop on a dime and pull up for a quick jumper, and has no problem shooting from deep. He can do all of this off the catch or with the dribble, straight up and down or off balance. All it really takes is one or two to drop and watch out, barrage incoming. He has a high motor that just has him rolling through punches and is a competitor on defence. Sharma is also an underrated rebounder for his size and has no trouble crashing the glass for boards. My underrated pick out of this bunch and someone to make an impact at the next level somewhere. Daniel Rom | 10 | G | 6’2” | Dakota Collegiate The second Grade 10 player on this list, and the second that’ll be in action in the final four at the University of Manitoba. Rom has really come into his own down the stretch of the season with big performances and draining huge shots for the Lancers. He is a sharpshooter first who has deep range and can get his shot off no problem against defenders. He can do so running off of screens or has shown signs of being able to create off the dribble. Rom has sneaky athleticism and can lift off and throw one down or simply finish through or around defenders at times. He is capable of getting hot on offence and has the ability to take over parts of games, quarters, or even halves. With that athleticism he is also a threat to jump passing lanes and head the other way for an easy two. Rom is a willing rebounder on both ends and crashes the glass. With his full emergence late in the season, he will be a key piece for the Lancers on Thursday night. Paul Ogweno | 12 | G | 6’3” | College Jeanne Sauve Ogweno has that jack of all trades skillset which helped the Olympiens into provincials. He is a good athlete who loves to play physical at both ends of the floor. He is fantastic getting downhill towards the bucket and finishing in multiple different ways. He has a solid mid range game that can’t go unnoticed, as well as a three ball that’s been better than expected. His ability to distribute the ball is underrated, as more than willing to make the right play. Ogweno can be the primary ball handler, or be off the ball and ready to make a play. He’s shown some good IQ when cutting off the ball for easy layups. On defence, he is a “right in your grill” defender that is trying to bother you, make you uncomfortable to make mistakes. He can pick your pocket cleanly or has the tendency to jump lanes. Overall, I have been a fan of his full court, two way game and curious to see what comes next for him. Liam Jaro | 11 | G | 5’11” | Miles Macdonell Collegiate Jaro is one of the best true point guards in the province, being able to create his own shot, while also being a very solid distributor. His biggest weapon is his parking lot range from deep, where he has no problem letting it fly if he’s left even slightly open. He draws so much attention from defenders that it opens up options for others. His vision is really good, being able to make the right pass with the right angle and get the ball to teammates for easy buckets. Ball pressure never seems too daunting to him, as his handle is very solid. Jaro is also a decent finisher at the rim, even at his size. He competes hard on both ends and will pick pockets from time to time and jumps lanes. Intrigued to see how his senior season goes for the Buckeyes, with still some headway to get better. Noah Macalalad | 12 | G | 5’11” | Maples Collegiate Another true point guard on this list that has had some big performances this season. Macalalad is a quick, twitchy guard that has range from three and good vision. His three ball is his calling card on offence, with deep range and a lightning fast release. He has no problem getting it up against defenders, or making a quick move to the bucket to pull up, or go all the way. Macalalad’s finishing is also good at the rim for someone his size, slithering around defenders to create angles with the glass. That quick release also translates to his ability to get up and go in transition with speed, while also having good abilities with the ball in his hands. His passing ability is also underrated, being able to find open teammates. That speed also helps him jump lanes for passes and be a plus defender. I have no doubt that with his skillset and shooting ability that Macalalad finds a home at the next level. Joaquin Ong | 11 | G | 6’0” | St. Paul’s High School Joaquin Ong at a tournament in Kelowna Rounding out this list is a combo guard that has no problem filling up the basket on offence. Ong is a scoring guard who relies on his jumper to put points up. Great mid range game that he can get to no matter what and can shoot it from deep. He does a decent amount of his damage in transition, where he can use his speed to create for himself or others. He has speed is seen in his ability to get his jumper off, as well as that handle of his that helps him get open. Very good in the pick and roll as well, taking what comes to him, whether that be making the right pass or shooting himself. Ong has been on my radar for quite a while, and I’m interested to see if he climbs my list in his senior year next season. Honourable Mentions These weren’t the only players that made an impression this season, below are my picks for players that deserve some recognition for their overall play this season. Some had impressive senior years, and others are players I am hoping to see take that leap to an even greater level next season. Binyi Li, 12, G, 6’0”, Oak Park High School Keetan Itana, 12, G, 6’2”, Glenlawn Collegiate Istvan Reid, 11, F, 6’9”, Grant Park High School Naod Baliho, 11, G, 6’3”, J.H. Bruns Collegiate Andrey Yamborko, 11, G/F, 6’4”, Maples Collegiate Bruno Van Bewer, 11, G, 6’5”, College Jeanne Sauve Even though I have dropped this top ten list, the season is not over just yet. On Thursday night, we will see the Kildonan East Reivers take on the Sisler Spartans at the Investors Group Athletic Centre, on the University of Manitoba campus. That one tips off at 6 p.m. central time. Following that game, the second Final Four matchup will take place between the Vincent Massey Trojans and the Dakota Lancers. That one goes at 8 p.m. central. The provincial final will be on Monday, March 24th at 8 p.m. central. All games will be streamed on LRSDTV, which is free on YouTube.

Written by Harrison Paulichuk Photo credit to yeg.film z on IG The Edmonton Stingers hosted the Metro League finals at the Flair Airlines Hangar, leading to an exciting group of games. I made it out to the division 1-3 senior boys finals on Friday and Saturday and was not disappointed. I believe Edmonton has some of the best basketball talent in the province. On Friday night, the Division 2 finals saw the Spruce Grove Panthers defeat a  determined Louis St Laurent team. On Saturday, the Division 3 final ended with a win for the Austin O'Brien Crusaders, and that evening, in a hard-fought match, the St FX Rams took out the Strathcona Lords, completing a back-to-back city championship run. Each of these games left me with different takeaways about the teams themselves, the atmosphere of the event, and the athletes within it all. In this article, I’ll share the key takeaways from my coverage of this event. Before moving on to these different thoughts, I want to send out a huge congratulations to all the winners from this weekend. Regardless of what division, a league championship is a remarkable accomplishment that will be remembered forever. See the final results below:     Boys Girls Div 1 St Francis Xavier Strathcona Div 2 Spruce Groves Louis St. Laurent Div 3 Austin O'Brien Ardrossan Div 4 Maurice Lavallee St. Joseph Div 5 Father Michael McCaffery J.H. Picard   Without further ado and in no particular order, here is my list of takeaways from the Metro Edmonton championship weekend.   Energy and Crowd turnout at Flair The Edmonton Stingers once again hosted the Metro athletics finals at their Flair Airlines Hangar arena in the Expo Centre. This weekend was by far the most electric I have seen the Hangar for a high school event. Not just one, but multiple finals games had full sections with parents and fans cheering on their respective teams. I loved the energy this created for the finals and although it wasn't a homecourt environment for anyone, I liked that it had the energy of one and the space for both sides to have representation. Some of the schools in the city have very little room to host events of this size and it was nice to have such a turnout for the athletes at a neutral site. Every game I watched this weekend was close and competitive right up until the final buzzer. The cheers from the fans in all directions created a vibrant and electric energy in the arena. You could truly feel the importance of what was on the line here for everyone on the court. Games like the Div 2 finals had one-half of the gym cheering for LSL and the other was screaming for the Panthers. This made for such a fun atmosphere and if you didn't get a chance to come out and watch this year, make sure to mark it in your calendars for the next.  Flair has certainly become the go-to venue for the Metro finals, and it’s an experience you won’t forget.   Spruce Grove’s Logan Kuva Shines The finals introduced me to a prospect I wish I had known about all year; Logan Kuva, from Spruce Grove. A 6'5 grade 12 forward, who took the bright lights and pressure of playing in the Flair Airlines Hangar to fuel a standout performance. At the start of the first, he played like a typical big man, eating boards and putting the ball back in through traffic, not straying much from the point. I didn't think much of it until he drained his first three-pointer from far beyond the high school line with ease. After that, Logan showcased his versatility and began getting more involved in all parts of the Panther's offence; bringing the ball up on his own confidently as a big man and beating defenders off the dribble from the perimeter. This was not the typical big man I expected, and instead, turned out to be a game-changing prospect. With several timely buckets as the Barons were creeping back in, Logan had one of the most impactful and standout performances from this weekend.   Scona's Defensive Activity For the Div 1 finals match, Strathcona knew they had to bring their "A" game against a number two provincially ranked, St. FX team. The last time these two matched up, Scona failed to keep the game competitive. This left many people wondering whether this game would be anything to watch. Anyone who knows anything about the Lords’ coaching staff though, knows that they do not take well to losing. I have nothing but respect for these guys and the constantly competitive product they put on the court. This is because they make adjustments and create a consistently well-disciplined environment for the athletes. As soon as this game started I noticed how well the defence on Scona's side of the ball was rotating. Against an FX team that is generally known for its impenetrable defence, the Lord's defence took the show with their defensive pressure instead. There were multiple possessions throughout the game when the Rams tried to take the ball to the rim and were stopped by seamless switching on the perimeter. The defensive rotations were so fluid that FX had a hard time getting to their usual spots and often had to settle for contested looks at the end of the shot clock. This was the best defence I have seen Scona play this season. Rotations, switching and on-ball pressure were all extremely disciplined and focused. If they take this same energy into provincials, I truly believe that they have the chance to upset some teams above them because a good defense beats a strong offense 99% of the time at this level.   St FX's Sam Richardson Steals the Show Watching St FX throughout the year is always a joy for me because not only are they one of the top teams in the province, but they also have one of the deepest rosters. Their coaching staff always finds ways to integrate and develop new players into their system. During the finals, their most impactful player was a Team Alberta athlete who played his role previously, but never stood out to me like he did this weekend. 6'2 senior Sam Richardson made his presence known with at least 5 steals both on-ball by stripping defenders and by reading the lanes to cut off passes. When Scona tried to make a run early in the fourth, Sam picked up the ball handler early and forced a few quick turnovers in a row, running the fast break and cashing in on some easy transition buckets. This jump in confidence is a credit to both the coaches and the athlete himself as I never saw this kind of pressure from him early on in the season. Within the Rams system, Sam made a huge jump both defensively, and offensively from the start to the end of the season. He was fearless on the biggest stage in an intense game. As tough as Scona's defence was, Sam seemed to consistently find lanes to the hoop using his quick first step and an arsenal of finishing moves to create his own scoring opportunities. He was patient on offence and spaced the floor well to give himself and his teammates the room to operate offensively. I am not surprised that the Rams were able to integrate and utilize such a high-calibre athlete into their system so well and look forward to seeing how he impacts their provincial run next weekend.   AOB's Guard Play and Standout Shooter The Division 3 finals was a close match from start to finish but the main factor that I thought won the Crusaders the game was their guards all stepping their game up in the final quarter and playing so well off of each other. Offensively, you could tell that the guards all communicated well with each other and whether they were shooting or driving it looked like they knew exactly where to go to fill space and run off of each other. Having two or three guards playing in sync proved to be too much for Dr. Anne's defence to stop. As soon as you pressured and stopped one of the guards, the other was wide open and would take advantage of the gaps in the defence. The offence was strengthened even more by grade 11 guard Jorge Vien Raphael Macalintal shooting the lights out all game and playing like the best player on the court. He seemed so comfortable with the ball in his hands and would not force anything, especially from deep. His decision-making and spatial awareness were phenomenal. He could slow the pace down and play the game at his own pace, using some shifty handles to get by defenders with ease. Not only did they control the offensive end, but these guards also set up a great half-court press that forced several intercepted passes late in the game with a final on the line. This rotation of guards was the reason that Austin O'Brien was able to win this game late.   Elite Shot Blocker Coming up with the Barons At the start of the Div 2 finals the Spruce Grove Panthers began driving to the hoop aggressively trying to score their first few buckets in the paint. It's not usually a bad idea to get yourselves going early with good looks inside. Except in this case, where it led to at least three blocked shots at the rim, all from the same player. Jeremy Adedeji, the grade 10 giant out of Louis St. Laurent was able to alter the Panthers shots and effectively forced them to change their whole gameplan in the second quarter where several players seemed much more hesitant to drive to the hoop when he was in the paint. The most shocking thing about this player is that he has not been a basketball player until this season. He was not even sure if he wanted to play this season but I am sure that the Barons are glad that he did. Jeremy was a difference maker on the court and although he still has lots to learn, size and defensive IQ are a combination that can easily lead to a player at the next level. He was already the best shot blocker that I saw this weekend and with some more experience, I am sure he will become an elite scorer as well at his height.   Dr Anne Anderson’s Hidden Gem Watching the finals for Div 3 introduced me to quite possibly the most underrated player of this weekend. David Boateng, a 6 '3 grade 10 from Dr Anne Anderson was one of, if not the best player in this game. A forward who, on a different team has the skills to play as a guard. He has a clean shot and though he might not be a shoot-first player his IQ allowed him to find his spots on the court and score at a high clip against DAA. He would not force anything and was comfortable moving the ball when the look was not there as well. He played down low at times but was comfortable taking it outside the perimeter and driving hard to the rack. He wasn't afraid of finding contact which is sometimes the biggest issue with younger players. He had the reaction time to get a couple of steals on the ball and comfortably led the break for his team. It seemed like every time the wolves were falling out of striking distance, David would make an impressive drive to the hoop or take an easy ball into the paint and get them back on track. The composure I saw from this kid in a championship setting has me excited to see where his talents take him next.   Scona Girls Can HOOP I don't typically follow much of the girls' side of things, not due to a lack of skill or interest, but more so due to time restraints and availability for myself. I am glad I got to watch the Div 1 girls' final though. Both Spruce Grove and Strathcona girl's teams are powerhouses this season and put up a hell of a fight. The Lords, however, handled their business in the Hangar this weekend. I have seen them play before and they look as dominant as ever. The way they consistently found their shots and played as a team was amazing to watch. It seemed as though no matter what the defence did, they always knew where their teammates were and the ball movement was fun to watch. The second note I made on them was their aggressiveness in finding contact and getting to the line. These girls all seemed like they were searching for contact but were converting the contact to free throws as well regularly. In high school athletes this can be hard to come across sometimes. Not for the Lords though, it seemed like almost all the girls played with such grit and passion. This is a huge credit to the coaching staff. The Strathcona girls played with such ferociousness that I would be shocked if they were not competing in the final four provincial tournament two weekends from now. I am glad I got to see them perform in such a high-pressure environment this weekend and look forward to seeing them do it again at provincials.   This was a super fun experience for me and I will already punch my ticket to the next event hosted by The Stingers. Although this highlights the top players and notes that stood out to me about this weekend, this is not an exclusive list and there very well could have been more to add. The event itself was just awesome and I want to highlight that Edmonton is a huge hub for basketball players and fans alike. I truly believe that we have one of the greatest communities in the country for hoops. If you do not regularly keep up with Edmonton or even Alberta hoops then what are you doing? If this article highlights anything I think it should be this community and the level of talent that comes out of our great city. I want to get the word out that Canada basketball is more than just Toronto and Ontario. Alberta has some next-level players and programs and if you don't believe me, then you just have to start following and find out for yourself.

Last weekend marked the conclusion of the ACAC season, and I traveled to Caronport, SK, to watch the games. You might wonder why the Alberta College Championship was held in Caronport. The Briercrest men were hosting the event because they secured the #1 seed in the south division, and being they are the only Saskatchewan school in the ACAC, I figured I should venture down and take in the action. The weekend kicked off with a fantastic banquet and celebration to honor all the award winners for the season. THURSDAY - QUARTERFINALS Quarterfinal #1 St Mary's 93 - Lakeland 81 St. Mary's (#2 South) and Lakeland (#3 North) kicked off the weekend's games. St. Mary's big three took control early and never looked back. The hot shooting of Caleb Jibb (5th; Calgary, AB), the new ACAC all-time leading scorer, led the way. His teammate, Brock Dewsberry (5th; Raymond, AB), who is now the #3 ACAC all-time leading scorer, played skillfully and punished Lakeland from all over the court. Additionally, big man Pelumi Ajayi (4th; Calgary, AB) brought a lot of energy and grit to the game, showcasing several impressive dunks that left Lakeland with little chance to respond. Quarterfinal #2 Keyano 87 - Lethbridge 84 The defending national champions, Keyano (#1 North), appeared stunned as Lethbridge (#4 South) focused strongly on defense, determined to pull off an upset. With Colston Lake ( 4th; Eagle, ID) and Levi Balderson (1st; Welling, AB) hitting key shots, Lethbridge entered halftime with a 13-point lead. In the fourth quarter, Keenan Miller (4th; Columbia, MO) stepped up and led his team to victory. Quarterfinal #3 Briercrest 93 - Concordia 84 Similar to Lethbridge, Concordia started strong in the first quarter, surprising the home crowd. Concordia guard Yaadvir Dhaliwal (5th; Sacramento, CA) scored frequently, but Briercrest remained composed and gradually narrowed the gap. By the second quarter, Briercrest had taken the lead and never surrendered. The depth of Briercrest was evident, as Owen Shepperd-Hills (2nd Year; Saskatoon, SK) led the team with 16 points off the bench. Quarterfinal #4 NAIT 80 - SAIT 67 In what I anticipated would be the best game of the opening round, both teams battled hard for the first 10 minutes, ending the first quarter in a draw. However, NAIT took the lead in the second quarter and never looked back. The Ooks executed an excellent game plan, keeping SAIT out of the paint, and SAIT struggled to score, finishing the evening with a dismal 2-for-19 from three-point range. FRIDAY - SEMIFINALS Consolation Semi #1 Lakeland 76 - Lethbridge 70 Lethbridge came out strong and determined to upset Lakeland. First-year guard Levi Balderson hit challenging shots and put pressure on the team. However, Lakeland eventually found its rhythm, with guard Chance Samuel (3rd; Douglasville, GA) making an impressive 5 of 7 attempts from beyond the arc. All five starters for Lakeland played over 30 minutes as the team advanced in the tournament. Consolation Semi #2 SAIT 76 - Concordia 73 This was a hard-fought game with significant momentum swings. SAIT entered halftime with a 6-point lead, and despite Concordia's best efforts in the second half, they couldn't overcome the deficit. The key difference in this game was SAIT's substantial rebounding advantage, highlighted by Killian Yopa's (2nd; Leon, France) impressive performance, which included 18 rebounds. Semi-Final #1 Keyano 88 - St. Mary's 82 The rematch of last year's gold medal game lived up to expectations. Keyano had a game plan to contain Jibb, while Pelumi Ajayi did everything possible to give St. Mary's an early lead. Keyano fought back, using a strong performance in the third quarter to start pulling ahead. St. Mary's desperately sought a way to secure their ticket to nationals but ultimately fell short. Keyano was led offensively by Nahshon Hurst (5th; Markham, ON), who recorded 21 points and 13 rebounds. However, it was Keenan Miller's two-way play that made a significant impact, as he scored 16 points and took on the responsibility of guarding Jibb. Semi #2 Briercrest 93 - NAIT 88 NAIT started the game strong, building a 13-point lead by halftime. The duo of Omar Farah (1st; Edmonton, AB) and Peter-Aluk Deng (1st; Edmont, AB) made tough shots from all over the floor. However, the second half was dominated by Francis Dogani (5th; Menifee, CA), who finished with 30 points. His teammate, Carter Waind (2nd; Kirkland, QC), also played a crucial role, hitting key three-pointers in the fourth quarter and finishing with 27 points. SATURDAY - Finals Consolation Final SAIT 80 - Lakeland 68 Both teams hoped for better outcomes over the weekend, but they took to the court one last time this season in search of a victory. SAIT had the advantage in depth and used it to wear down Lakeland, who was playing their third game in three days. Lakeland was led by Chance Samuel, who scored 18 points, while Ryan Dekleva (1st; Kelowna, BC) led SAIT with 19 points. BRONZE MEDAL St Mary 105 - NAIT 93 St. Mary came out strong, setting a blistering pace by scoring 54 points in the first half. NAIT tried to keep up, but they struggled to match that speed. This match celebrated the culmination of two of the greatest careers in ACAC history. Brock Dewsberry scored 35 points, solidifying his position as the #3 all-time leading scorer in ACAC history. His teammate, Caleb Jibb, contributed 32 points with an impressive 5-for-10 shooting from beyond the arc. Jibb finishes his ACAC career as the all-time leading scorer and holds the record for the most three-pointers made, finishing with 40 more than the next closest player. Winning the bronze medal is bittersweet for this duo. Alongside their incredible individual accolades, they secured two ACAC silver medals and this year's bronze in the last three seasons. Unfortunately, none of these achievements earned them a trip to the CCAA nationals, meaning the rest of the country never got to witness their incredible talent on that stage. GOLD MEDAL **Briercrest 79 - Keyano 73** The final was an exciting matchup as the #3 team in the country, Briercrest, faced the defending national champions, Keyano. Both teams were already set to head to Quebec for nationals, thanks to the ACAC granting a wild card before the season began. Briercrest started strong, igniting the atmosphere in front of an enthusiastic, sold-out crowd of 800 students, family, and friends in the 'Hanger.' They took a commanding lead of 20-8 after the first quarter, while Keyano appeared to struggle from their previous night's intense battle against St. Mary's. However, Keyano was determined to fight back and narrow the lead, which they accomplished, reducing it to just 6 points by halftime. Keenan Caribou (4th; Pukatawagan, MB) played a significant role in this comeback, scoring 13 of his 23 points in the second quarter. The remainder of the game saw both teams exchanging baskets, but Keyano was never able to close the gap to within more than 3 points. Omeechi Williams (4th; Hamilton, ON) made a strong contribution for Keyano, finishing the game with 23 points and 10 rebounds, while Jude Shepperd-Hills (5th; Saskatoon, SK) led Briercrest with 20 points. Ultimately, Briercrest claimed their first ACAC Men's Basketball title in school history. Overall, the weekend was an incredible showcase for Briercrest College and the ACAC. Briercrest hosted an event that ran seamlessly from start to finish. I genuinely hope the community considers supporting a bid to bring the national championships to Caronport, SK, as I believe Saskatchewan will rally to support the event. The basketball was outstanding, and every team demonstrated why I have such a passion for and promote the ACAC. The level of play continues to improve, with players exhibiting exceptional skills and smooth performances. I look forward to helping more athletes achieve their dreams of playing beyond high school, and I know the ACAC is an excellent environment for both basketball and education.

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.

From February 14 to 16, I took a long drive from Saskatoon to Calgary to attend the final Dime Sessions tournament of the year. The Dime Sessions concluded their inaugural season with 11 teams competing in this last tournament, and their rankings were determined by the results of the five weekends of play the league hosted over the past five months. The league showcased many of the top prep and post-grad programs from Western Canada, with all four provinces represented in the final tournament. This created an excellent opportunity for recruiters, as the tournament featured players committed to various levels, including NCAA Division 1, USports, and the ACAC. Over three days, I watched approximately 14 games and was impressed in many ways. The final game was the best basketball game I have witnessed in person this season. The talent on the floor for CTA West and WCPA was inspiring and made me feel optimistic about the level of basketball being played in Western Canada. Munroop Gill 5'11 Guard CTA West Class of 2025 This was my first time seeing Munroop in person, and he did not disappoint. He is the ultimate leader and point guard! Though his team did not play Friday night, he was a noticeable figure in the gym, cheering and encouraging the other CTA West team. Once he took the court Saturday, he was in control of his team in every game they played. He effortlessly pushes the ball up the floor and consistently knows what is happening, always placing his teammates in a position to make plays. The way that he communicates on the floor is well beyond his years; it is infectious, and you can see its impact on his teammates. Throughout the tournament, and especially in the final, he was a buzz saw on defense, diving for loose balls despite tweaking both ankles over the weekend. He demonstrated incredible toughness and resolve, returning to the game and leading his team to the championship. The coach that picks up Munroop is getting another member of the coaching staff and a point guard who will be a winner wherever he plays. Riak Chol 6'6 Guard WCPA Class of 2026 Riak is one of the smoothest players that I have ever seen play the game. His ability to score at all three levels is awe-inspiring and something coaches want in their lineup. The athleticism was on full display in the final when he finished an alley-oop with authority in the closing minutes from almost standing start. His rebounding and defense are also high-level, he makes an impact at both ends. There is no doubt why he has an offer from Colorado State and more offers will be coming soon. Alexander Baulne 6'8 Forward CTA West Class of 2025 Alexander played like a modern big man should all weekend. In the semi-final, he opened the game with 10 of his team's first 12 points by getting to the low block and powering his way to the bucket or getting free throws. He also showed the ability to dominate on the boards, in the final using his size and positioning to grab rebounds and make smart outlet passes. Combine all this with his smooth stroke from 3-point range, and he is a stretch 4/5 that coaches at every level are looking for. Cole Arrow 6'2 Guard PSA Class of 2027 Cole is a skilled point guard that I have been following for a while and finally got to see in person over the weekend. He is quick and athletic, using his abilities to penetrate the paint where he shows a nice floater as well as the capacity to find open shooters and make accurate passes. He also consistently knocks down 3-point shots. Cole will be a prospect to watch in the coming years to see how much he can develop his game and the attention he attracts from coaches. Jayden Rushema 6'7 Wing WPCA Class of 2025 Jayden is a true wing player at 6'7" with the athleticism to compete on the perimeter. He consistently put the ball on the floor and drove to the rim effectively on offense. Defensively, he utilized his length to disrupt passing lanes and rebound at a high level. It’s clear why he has interest from JuCo and USports and will quickly become a rotation player for whichever team adds him to their roster. Sharaya Aamir 6'3 Guard AE Academy Class of 2025 Sharaya opened the tourney up tourney knocking down 9 3's, and he just kept shooting the rest of the weekend. He was also actively putting the ball on the floor and challenging defenders. At 6'3 he showed excellent athleticism and did many of the little things that coaches are looking for. John Camplin 6'2 Guard Golden Ticket Class of 2025 John is one of the Saskatchewan players in this tournament that I have observed over several years, and his improvement this year has been impressive. His body control on the offensive end allowed him to get to the paint and finish creatively. He consistently made mid-range shots and three-pointers. John is a strong shooting guard who I believe will be an excellent pick-up for either a USport or CCAA team looking for depth. Carson Hedges 6'8 Forward CTA West Class of 2025 Carson is a notable big-body forward that CTA has developed. Over the weekend, he demonstrated signs of dominance inside, punishing smaller defenders as he attacked the hoop. His athleticism is impressive for his size, and he completed several alley-oops that caught my attention. He maintains great positioning on the defensive end and is an above-average rebounder who fights for every board on both ends of the court. I believe he will be an excellent prospect for any team looking to add size to their roster. Zachery Herman 6'5 Forward United Class of 2025 Zachery is a big-body post that played strong in the post for this mostly undersized team. He showed great footwork and positioning to battle players several inches taller in several games. When he was able to get the ball on both post touches and offensive rebounds he showed touch and creativity around the rim to finish. Jacob Matiash 6'6 Wing FV Mountaineers Prep Class of 2025 Jacob is a long and uber-athletic wing that caught my attention quickly. He was flying around for the Mountaineers all weekend on offense and defense. He is super springy and was easily playing above the rim on offense. He showed a good shot that made defenses play him out to the 3-point line. He has interest from several CCAA schools but is still uncommitted and would be a great pick-up. Overall, the Dime Sessions was an incredibly well-run event that showcased a lot of talent. Many college coaches attended at least one event, as I chatted with several at the finals. As the leadership at Dime Sessions plans for next year's events, I expect numerous coaches and evaluators will include them in their schedules. I, for one, will be attending multiple events.

FEBRUARY BREAK RANKINGS - Feb 18/25 With school out this week for February break, it is a good time to do final rankings before we get to Hoopla, The Saskatoon and Regina teams have all played their final tournaments and the rural teams have one more tournament slot on Feb. 28th weekend. Each team has 2-4 regular season games and then we will see city playoffs, so here is my opinion of where everyone stands. 1. Leboldus Golden Suns (24-2) The Golden Suns have been impressive all year and have not lost a game to in-province competition this year, both their losses are to top 5 Alberta Teams. They look poised to repeat their provincial crown. 2. Swift Current Ardens (21-4) The Ardens have only 1 loss to in-province competition, which was to Leboldus in the CIT finals. They have played an aggressive schedule with 2 trips to Alberta where they played well. With a roster full of grade 12's and 3 players committed to ACAC schools next year, I fully expect them to be prepared for a run to the finals at Hoopla and a rematch with Leboldus. 3. Miller Marauders (14-8) The Marauders have the 9 losses but a closer look shows that played Leboldus 3 times, Swift Current twice, and 2 top 5 Alberta teams. Coach Martens will hope all that experience in big games will help as they see Leboldus at least once more and then a run to a provincial title. 4.  Holy Cross Crusaders (15-2) Holy Cross has been impressive, especially in Saskatoon league play, they have only lost twice. They opened the season with a close win over Walter Murray and they fell to Miller at the CIT tourney in Regina and Leboldus at the GIT in Saskatoon. They look poised for a run at a city championship but will have some tough competition from teams that are hungry to knock them off. 5. St Joseph Guardians (15-5) The Guardians have slowly played themselves up these rankings all year and wins over Knoll and Murray in late January helped them jump again in these rankings. They have losses to Cross (2x), Leboldus, and Swift, and I am sure they are ready to play these teams again as the playoffs approach. 6. Walter Murray Marauders (12-9) The Marauders have not suffered any particularly bad losses; their defeats have come against teams ranked higher than them or those that are highly regarded in Alberta and Manitoba. Being a young team, they are continuing to develop and come together. With three Hoopla spots available for Saskatoon teams, they will need to be vigilant as other teams may try to take their place. However, I also see them having the potential to defeat either Cross or St. Joe's, which could allow them to compete in the city championship. 7. Harvest City Reapers (12-9) The Harvest City Reapers will be competing in the 4A bracket for Hoopla. They have had very strong performances since Christmas. I initially ranked them in the first edition but dropped them in the second. However, their impressive showings at the St. Vital tournament in Winnipeg and the CIT in Regina have brought them back into the rankings. They are hosting the ROCK tournament and will compete in regionals as they aim for a provincial championship season. 8. Winston Knoll Wolverines (10-9) The team that dropped the most since Christmas has had some tough games where they did not come out on the winning end. They have currently lost 4 straight and will hopefully regroup during this break. They are a veteran team led by 2 grade 12s, so I think they will be able to grab a Hoopla spot and hopefully make a great run once they get in. 9. North Battleford Vikings (14-10) The Vikings have had some great wins and losses they probably want back. I was impressed with their play at the MIT in Saskatoon and think they will be looking to grab that second rural berth to Hoopla. They are a young team that keeps growing and with one more tourney to go look for them to keep improving. 10. Wynyard Bears (17-6) The Bears have dropped in ranking due to some challenging games at MIT in Saskatoon, where they were missing several key players. They will compete in the 3A category at Hoopla, and given their tough schedule this season, they should head into the tournament with confidence in their preparedness. CHRISTMAS BREAK RANKINGS - Dec 20/2024 Now that we are on Christmas Break and all the teams have played at least one tournament and a few league games, let's revisit our girls' rankings. 1. Leboldus Golden Suns (9-1) Leboldus has performed as strongly as we anticipated in our preseason rankings. They finished the first round of league play with a perfect 4-0 record and won the GIT tournament in Saskatoon convincingly. Their only setback occurred at the prestigious REB tournament in Edmonton, where they faced Strathcona High School, ranked #3 in Alberta, in the first round. Strathcona went on to win the tournament, while Leboldus claimed victory in the consolation bracket. After the Christmas break, Leboldus will continue to be a target for teams both within and outside the province. However, they look very strong and are likely to reach the Hoopla final again. 2. Swift Current Ardens (8-2) The Ardens remain undefeated against all Saskatchewan opponents, achieving their victories convincingly. They easily won the St. Mary's tournament, defeating St. Joe's. They then hosted a tournament, which, although featuring mostly smaller schools, showcased their dominance.  Their real challenges came when they traveled to Lethbridge to compete in the LCI tournament, which was filled with ranked Alberta teams. The Ardens won their opening game against Notre Dame from Calgary, but lost to Holy Trinity and Spruce Grove, the latter being ranked #5 in Alberta. We are all eager to see when Swift will face one of the Regina teams and to hear the results of that matchup. 3. Miller Marauders (7-2) The Miller Marauders have  a strhadong start this season, demonstrating the competitiveness of the top girls' teams in the province. They finished the first round of Regina league play with a record of 3-1, experiencing a narrow five-point loss to Leboldus. To kick off the year, they traveled to Edmonton to compete in St. Francis Xavier's Mike Dea Classic, wrapping up the tournament with a 3-1 record. They achieved impressive victories over St. FX and Louis St. Laurent, but a loss to Foothills Comp (#6 in Alberta) prevented them from reaching the championship game. After Christmas, the Marauders will have several opportunities to face Leboldus again, but they will need to be mindful of other teams that are also challenging for the top positions. 4.  Winston Knoll Wolverines (5-2) Knoll started the season strong, finishing 2-2 in the opening round of league play. However, they were unable to overcome Leboldus and Miller. They also participated in one tournament, traveling to Saskatoon for the Centennial C4, where they won the championship defeating both St. Mary and North Battleford. Knoll has been impressive so far and will have opportunities to improve their rankings, with several upcoming games against Leboldus and Miller. They need to remain cautious, as only three teams from Regina will qualify for Hoopla, and other teams below them are working hard to catch up for a spot. 5. Holy Cross Crusaders (8-1) The Crusaders have made the biggest jump in the rankings, impressing everyone with their performance. Despite losing several key players to graduation, the younger athletes have stepped up remarkably, defeating Murray in a preseason game and starting the preliminary round of league play in Saskatoon with a 2-0 record. They have participated in two tournaments, winning the Fekula Classic in Regina with ease and finishing as runners-up to Leboldus at the GIT.  Holy Cross is currently the team to beat in Saskatoon, but competition will be intense for the three Hoopla spots that are up for grabs. 6. Walter Murray Marauders (2-4) This team has been the most challenging to rank so far. They haven't played a heavy schedule leading up to the break, with only three of their games played against teams from Saskatchewan. In those matchups, they recorded a 2-1 record, suffering their only loss to Cross by just two points in the season-opening exhibition match. Their other three losses occurred at the REB tournament in Edmonton, where they competed against two strong teams from Alberta and one from California. Given their limited number of games, this is a team to keep an eye on to better understand their true standing. 7. Wynyard Bears (8-2) Wynyard is one of the teams that was unranked in the preseason but has now made it into the rankings. What makes Wynyard unique is that they are a 3A team competing against tougher 5A opponents, and they have made a strong impression so far. They won the Lanigan Tournament and finished as the runners-up at the Humboldt Tournament, where they suffered an upset against Meadow Lake in a late-game comeback. Their current ranking reflects their impressive performance in the St. Mary's Tournament, where they lost to Swift Current in the semifinals but secured significant victories over Battleford and St. Mary's in the third-place game. We will see Wynyard again in the MIT at Walter Murray, where they will face top teams to further assess their competitiveness. There is little doubt that they should be strong favorites for another 3A championship. 8. St. Joseph Guardians (6-4) A new addition to the rankings has made a strong impression this season. They began with an impressive victory over Centennial and participated in two tournaments, finishing in 2nd and 3rd place, respectively. At the St. Mary's Tournament, they reached the finals but lost to Swift Current after defeating St. Mary in the semi-finals.  At their home tournament (GIT), they lost to Holy Cross in the semi-finals before defeating Carleton for the bronze medal. The Guardians have looked very good so far and will be a contender for a spot at Hoopla. 9. North Battleford (6-3) This new addition to the rankings has performed well in every tournament so far but has fallen short in each one. They began at the St. Mary's Tournament, where they lost to Wynyard in the semifinals but secured a win against Carleton to claim 3rd place. At the GIT, they lost their opening game to Holy Cross but bounced back by defeating St. Mary's and Peacock, ultimately winning the consolation bracket. Finally, at the C4 tournament, they enjoyed an impressive opening win against Centennial but lost to Knoll in the finals. They have demonstrated strong potential and appear to be on an upward trend. We will see if they can put it all together after the break and come away with a couple of tournament championships. 10. Centennial Chargers (3-5) Our final-ranked team has had a challenging start to the Saskatoon league play, suffering losses to Holy Cross, Walter Murray, and St. Joe's in an exhibition match. They traveled to Edmonton for the Totem Classic, where they lost against Jasper Place (#8 in Alberta) and All Saints (Calgary), but managed to secure a win against J. Cardinal Schubert (Calgary) in their final game.  They also hosted the C4 tournament, where they lost to North Battleford but won against St. Mary's, ultimately finishing in third place. As I previously mentioned, Saskatoon has faced lighter competition in league play, which presents opportunities to improve with some victories. They will need to compete hard to qualify for Hoopla, and it will be exciting to watch their journey. Other Notes - Regina appears to have three strong teams, while both Harvest City and Campbell have had a rough start to the season. Expect Harvest City to make a comeback, as they have string players and coaching. Campbell will be working hard to move back up from B Pool in hopes of securing a spot at Hoopla. -The Rural division has been very competitive, with teams consistently challenging one another. St. Mary's has performed well, making it difficult to drop them from the rankings. Additionally, keep an eye on Carleton as playoff time approaches; they are a formidable team. - After Christmas, Saskatoon is expected to be highly competitive, with all four ranked teams believing they deserve a spot at Hoopla. PRESEASON RANKINGS - Nov 8/2024 With November 18th marking the opening day for basketball in Saskatchewan, it’s time to assess the top teams in the province this year. Hoopla will be hosted in Saskatoon, and the 5A field will feature three teams from Saskatoon, three from Regina, and two qualifying rural teams. As I analyze the provincial basketball landscape, I notice that many grade 12 players have graduated and teams will heavily rely on underclass players this year, which will likely affect the standings for 2024/25. Let’s take an early look at what I anticipate for the 2024/25 season. These rankings are based on conversations with coaches, basketball enthusiasts, and players themselves. The interesting aspect of team rankings is that they are not definitive; teams will ultimately earn their places at Hoopla through their performance. I have gathered information on where to watch these teams, so fans and college coaches can follow their progress when they are nearby. #1 Dr. Martin LeBoldus Catholic High School Golden Suns It is often easy to place the defending provincial champions at the top of rankings, and Leboldus makes a strong case for this. Despite finishing in 4th place in Regina League play last season, they secured 3rd place in the playoffs after the semi-final game against Winston Knoll was canceled due to work action. They were seeded #2 for Hoopla, and in what some may have considered an upset, they defeated Winston Knoll to claim the provincial title. Coach Kot is looking to replicate the success he had in 2018 and 2019 when he won back-to-back provincial titles. While the loss of six Grade 12 players cannot be overlooked, the team still has promising talent, including Hayden Kot, who is moving into Grade 11, and Nicola Meban, who is entering Grade 10. This young talent gives them a real opportunity to repeat their success. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: GIT (St. Joseph; Saskatoon, SK) - Dec 5-7th REB (Jasper Place; Edmonton, AB) - Dec 12-14th Leboldus Tourney (Regina, SK) - Jan 16-18 CIT (Campbell; Regina, SK) - Jan 30 to Feb 1 LIT - qualifier TBA #2 Swift Current Comprehensive High School Ardens (Swift Current, SK) Coach Andrew Herrick is aiming to bring the 5A provincial championship to a rural school for the first time since 1996, when Moose Jaw Peacock achieved this feat.. In the 2023/24 season, the Ardens won the rural qualification but fell short in the bronze medal game at Hoopla against Walter Murray. This year, they return with the majority of their team intact, with only two Grade 12 players graduating from last season's squad. Led by guard Dani Meyer, along with Kylee Michaluk and Sarah Neustaeter, they are ready to make history and claim the title from the big city teams. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: #3 Miller Marauders (Regina, SK) Miller and Coach Carter Martens faced a challenging 2023/24 season due to injuries, which prevented them from fielding the team they believed they could be. Finishing in 5th place in league play resulted in a quarterfinal matchup against LeBoldus. As they move into the 2024/25 season, they carry high hopes. However, the upcoming season won't be easy, as they have lost two key Grade 12 players. Renee Dauphinais and Princess Castaneda have graduated and will be attending Brandon University and Keyano College, respectively. Fortunately, team MVP Jordyn Neumann returns, along with Jessica Wicklund and Ali Eidsness plus several players moving up from junior ranks, Coach Martens feels optimistic about the season ahead and aims for a trip to Saskatoon. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: Mike Dea (St Francis Xavier; Edmonton, AB) - Dec 5-7 CIT (Campbell; Regina, SK) - Jan 30 to Feb 1 Swift Current Tourney - LIT - qualifier TBA #4 Winston Knoll Collegiate Wolverines (Regina, SK) The 2023-2024 season was notable for Coach Lance Ford and the Wolverines. They finished first in the Regina regular season and secured the city championship by defeating Campbell in the finals. However, their journey ended in the provincial final, where they lost to LeBoldus. As the team prepares for the this season, they have lost four graduates, including wing player Josie Valley, who will be joining the Regina Cougars. Nevertheless, the Wolverines have a strong core that can lead them to another successful run at Hoopla. Coach Ford will be counting on two key seniors: guard Ryan Zimmer and post player Maddie Chicoine. He is also excited about a talented group of juniors, including Brooke and Brynn Birnie. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: C4 (Centennial; Saskatoon, SK) - Dec 12-14 Cross Town Classic (Winston Knoll; Regina, SK) - Jan 16-18 CIT (Campbell; Regina, SK) - Jan 30 to Feb 1 LIT - qualifier TBA #5 Walter Murray Collegiate Maurauders (Saskatoon, SK) The 2023/24 season was a successful one for Coach Katie Farmer and the Murray Marauders. The team finished undefeated in Saskatoon league play and secured the city championship. They entered Hoopla ranked third and ultimately took home the bronze medal. As the team looks ahead to the 2024/25 season, they will face challenges due to the graduation of four Grade 12 players, including Sophie Larson, who will join the Saskatchewan Huskies, and Megan Jetzke, who is headed to the Concordia Thunder. However, with Ryan Deutscher moving into Grade 10 and several other underclassmen returning to the squad, Coach Farmer has a competitive team that is poised for success in the coming years. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: REB (Jasper Place; Edmonton, AB) - Dec 12-14 MIT (Walter Murray; Saskatoon, SK) - Jan 28-30 LIT (Luther; Regina, SK) - Feb 6-8 #6 Campbell Collegiate Tartans (Regina) In the 2023/24 season, the Campbell team had an impressive performance, finishing second in Regina and earning the sixth seed at Hoopla. They managed to upset Holy Cross in the fifth-place game, concluding their season on a high note. For the 2024/25 season, changes are on the horizon for the Tartans, as coach Bill Nagel will be transitioning to coaching the junior boys’ team. Claire Dore will take over as the new head coach. She will face challenges, as the team will graduate six players, including Gabrielle Kaban, who will join the Saskatchewan Huskies this season. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: Medicine Hat Tourney (Medicine Hat, AB) - Dec 12-14 Leboldus Tourney (Regina, SK) - Jan 16-18 CIT (Campbell; Regina, SK) - Jan 30 to Feb 1 The ROCK (Regina Christian; Regina, SK) - Feb 26-28 LIT - qualifier TBA #7 Centennial Chargers The 2023/24 season did not conclude as the Chargers had hoped. They finished third in Saskatoon league play, and since the city only sent two teams to the Hoopla playoffs, they were eliminated based on their ranking. The work stoppage also disrupted the city playoffs. Looking ahead to the 2024/25 season, there will be a new head coach for Centennial, as longtime coach Trevor Mirtle has retired and handed the reins to Maddy Humbert. Coach Humbert inherits a team that has been quietly developing, featuring young players who have gained valuable experience. This will be Maya Haggerty's senior year, and she is certainly one to watch. She will be joined by juniors Paige Mirtle and Elyse Wagner, who are entering their third season on the senior team and are eager to compete for city and provincial titles. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: Totem Classic (Ross Sheppard; Edmonton, AB) - Dec 5-7 C4 (Centennial; Saskatoon, SK) - Dec 12-14 MIT (Walter Murray; Saskatoon, SK) - Jan 28-30 LIT (Luther; Regina, SK) - Feb 6-8 #8 Harvest City Christian Academy Reapers (Regina, SK) This school, which has only 80 students in grades 9-12, continues to compete with the largest schools in the province. Technically a 2A school, they are once again declaring for 5A and aiming for a provincial title, hoping to add to their 5A silver medal from the 2022/23 season. Coach Joel Wells graduated only one player from last year's roster, putting the team in a strong position for this upcoming season. With Jael Wells, Kai-Lynn Clive and Severyn Ferrara-Horne all only entering their junior years, we can expect great things from this small but formidable school. The question will be their depth and can they find enough players that can fill out a roster that is competitive. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: O'Neill Tourney (Regina, SK) - Nov 21- 23 St. Vital Tourney (Winnipeg, MB) - TBA CIT (Campbell; Regina, SK) - Jan 30 to Feb 1 LIT - qualifier TBA The ROCK (Regina Christian; Regina, SK) - Feb 26-28 #9 Holy Cross High Schoool Crusaders (Saskatoon, SK) The 2023/24 season saw them finish second in both the regular season and playoffs in Saskatoon, earning a 5th seed at Hoopla. Unfortunately, they fell short against Campbell in that game, marking the end of their season. This upcoming season will bring significant changes for a program that has consistently been a leading women's team in Saskatoon. Coach Shaun Nechvatal is stepping away, and his assistant from the past several years, Coach Janaya Brown, will take over the program. Additionally, they will lose six players to graduation, including Kayla Gillespie-Kraft, who will be joining Mount Royal University in Calgary. Taylor Randall will be the only returning player entering their senior year and will be expected to lead a young team. Holy Cross will have a strong group of juniors coming up, and they will need to focus on securing a third Saskatoon berth to Hoopla this year. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: GIT (St. Joseph; Saskatoon, SK) - Dec 5-7th Balfour Tourney - (Balfour; Regina, SK) - Dec 12-14 CIT (Campbell; Regina, SK) - Jan 30 to Feb 1 Centennial Tourney (Centennial; Calgary, AB) - Feb 6-8 #10 Ecole St Mary's High School Marauders (Prince Albert, SK) St. Mary will need to put in a significant effort to compete for a spot at Hoopla, as only two berths are available for rural teams. This year, Swift Current is looking particularly strong. Just like in the 2023/24 season, when St. Mary lost to Swift Current in the rural final, I expect to see the same two teams facing off again. Coach Dwayne Gareau has developed an excellent tournament schedule to ensure the team is well-prepared for the challenge ahead. Last season, he graduated five Grade 12 players, including point guard Sydney Batiuk. This year, he is counting on guard Cate Rapin and post player Esther Akinobu to have standout senior seasons as they fend off other rural contenders, aiming to secure one more berth to Hoopla. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: St Mary's Tourney (St Mary's; Prince Albert, SK) - Nov 28-30 GIT (St. Joseph; Saskatoon, SK) - Dec 5-7th C4 (Centennial; Saskatoon, SK) - Dec 12-14 Carleton Invitational (Prince Albert, SK) - Jan 10 - 12 Cross Town Classic (Winston Knoll; Regina, SK) - Jan 16-18 MIT (Walter Murray; Saskatoon, SK) - Jan 28-30 North Battleford Tourney - Feb 28-Mar 2 Instead of Honorable mentions, here are my predictions for the Premier division teams in each city as well as my top 5 rural teams. Saskatoon Premiere League Walter Murray Marauders Centennial Chargers Holy Cross Crusaders St Joseph Guardians Aden Bowman Bears Bethlehem Stars Marion Graham Falcons Bishop J Mahoney Saints Regina Premiere League Leboldus Suns Miller Mauraders Winston Knoll Wolverines Campbell Tartans Harvest City Reapers Riffel Royals Balfour Bears Luther Lions Rural Team Swift Current St Mary's Crusaders Wynyard Bears - 3A North Battleford Vikings Moose Jaw Vanier - 4A

FEBRUARY BREAK RANKINGS - Feb 17/25 With school out this week for February break, it is a good time to do final rankings before we get to Hoopla, The Saskatoon and Regina teams have all played their final tournaments and the rural teams have one more tournament slot Feb. 28th weekend. Each team has 2-4 regular season games and then we will see city playoffs, so here is my opinion of where everyone stands. 1. Walter Murray Marauders (19-4) Currently, on an 11-game win streak, including an impressive 94-68 win over Holy Cross in their home tournament finals, it is clear the defending provincial champs are ready to defend that crown. The Mauraders only have 1 loss to in-province competition, which was a 1-point loss in the season-opening exhibition to Cross. Zach Hawley (2027) is playing at an incredibly high level and we are seeing Faisal Mahadi (2026) and Isak Larson's (2027) games starting to pick up. 2. Holy Cross Crusaders (18-4) While Murray got the best of the Crusaders in their last match-up, it is also very clear that they are the 2nd best team in the province, with 2 losses to Murray and 2 more to Alberta teams (FX in BRIT final and Ainlay in Tri-Prov final). Kian Tyson (2026) and Moe Osman (2026) have shown their incredible skill sets every game, the continued improvement of Goloom Bein (2026), Raph Mutongolo (2027) and Lucien Tyson (2028) will be very important as they will likely play Walter Murray 3 more times this year. 3. Martin Monarchs (22-5) Martin has been rolling all season in Regina and has been battle-tested, their loss in the LIT finals to Murray shows they seem to still be a step behind. With 3 of their 5 losses this season coming at the hands of Riffel, they have an incredible string record. Look for guard Tommy Olson (2026) and Wing Corban Andreas (2026) to lead the team to a potential city championship and hopefully a Hoopla final. 4. St. Joseph Guardians (15-7) The Guardians have performed well throughout the season, having only lost to the teams ranked above them in the province and to some strong out-of-province teams at BRIT. They have shown impressive form against top competition, but they will need to find consistency as the season comes to a close. They are likely to secure the third spot for Saskatoon at Hoopla, but other teams will be eager to challenge them and seize that position. 5. Central Cyclones (13-6) The Cyclones will head to Hoopla as overwhelming favorites to win their 5th consecutive 4A provincial title. They have truly pushed themselves this season playing 2 Alberta Tournaments and winning the Crosstown Classic in Regina. 6. Campbell Tartans (14-11) Although the Tartans have the most losses among the top 10 teams, they have faced an incredibly tough schedule. Their back-to-back victories over Riffel in the past two weeks have solidified their rise in the rankings. They appear to be the second team from Regina, and Coach Orobko will have a strategy in place to challenge Martin for the city championship. 7. Luther Lions (12-9) The Lions have been a challenging team to evaluate this year, as they have some impressive victories alongside a few losses to teams ranked significantly below them. Being a 4A team, they will need to fend off underdogs after finishing league play next week, until they face Central in the 4A title game. 8. Riffel Royals (20-6) This represents the biggest drop in our rankings. The Royals lost Davin Berry to injury during the CIT and have struggled to establish their identity since then. They have lost five of their last eight games, with two of those wins coming against Manitoba teams at LIT. Depending on the severity of Davin's injury, Coach Shields faces a significant challenge in fending off O'Neill and Miller, who are both eager to secure the third Regina berth for Hoopla. 9. Carlton Crusaders (17-4) The Carlton Crusaders have dropped in the rankings despite losing only two games since Christmas. Their fall is mainly due to their schedule; they have not faced opponents of the same quality as most of the other teams on this list. Their loss to Peacock is particularly notable, but their other losses have been against teams ranked in the top four. Carlton is an intriguing team and could pose a challenge as a first-round opponent at Hoopla, if they qualify for the event. With only two berths available for rural teams, the road to Hoopla will not be easy. 10. Peacock Toilers (10-5) The new team to the final rankings has had some impressive wins over Central and Carleton but the other 3 losses are to teams they need to beat. They look strong to secure one of the rural spots, especially with star wing Mukungu Mutabazi (2026) leading the way. They will have to fend off the rural teams like one of my preseason favorites North Battleford. CHRISTMAS BREAK RANKINGS - Dec 20/2024 Now that we are on Christmas Break and all the teams have played at least one tournament and a few league games, let's revisit our boys' rankings. 1. Holy Cross Crusaders (7-0) They remain undefeated after a narrow 1-point victory over Walter Murray in an early-season exhibition game. Their only tournament so far has been quite impressive, as they won the GIT held at St. Joe's in Saskatoon, SK, defeating three ranked teams along the way.  However, they have not played as many games as most of the other teams on the list, so it will be interesting to see if they can maintain their strong performance. 2. Walter Murray Marauders (5-2) Their two losses are not significant setbacks, making it hard to move them from the number one ranking. They lost to Holy Cross by just one point in their season opener and fell short in the finals of the Totem Classic against Ross Sheppard in Edmonton, Alberta, missing Zach in the fourth quarter. With a league game scheduled against Holy Cross on January 7th and the BRIT tournament taking place from January 9th to 11th, they will have the opportunity to reclaim the top spot. 3. Riffel Royals (11-1) The Regina teams have played more games than Saskatoon, as they have completed their first full round of league play. Riffel did experience a loss to Martin during the league, but they managed to defeat Martin in the finals of Martin's home tournament and again in the semi-finals of the BSSI (Neelin; Brandon, MB). Subsequently, Riffel won the BSSI by defeating a strong Dakota team in the finals. Hopefully, we will see Riffel match up against Murray in the LIT (Luther; Regina, SK). Until then, we may not have a clear understanding of the top four rankings, as they will be based more on observations than results. 4. Martin Monarchs (13-2) Martin has started the season strong, as we predicted in the preseason rankings, even though Tommy Olson has missed many games. They have played the most games by far, participating in their home tournament, where they finished in 2nd place, winning the BOWLT tournament in Saskatoon, and finishing 3rd at the BSSI tournament in Neelin, Brandon, MB. Martin was undefeated in the first round of league play but lost both of their games to Riffel during tournament play. We can expect to see the fourth matchup between Martin and Riffel in early January, which may lead to changes in their rankings. 5. St. Joseph Crusaders (8-3) St. Joe's has made a strong impression this season, and their rise in the rankings is well-deserved. They have three losses: one against Walter Murray during league play and two to Holy Cross, the GIT final and league play. In addition to earning a silver medal at the GIT, they also won the Carleton Invitational in Prince Albert, SK, where they defeated both Carleton and Central. We are excited to see them compete in the BRIT and CIT tournaments in the new year. These tournaments could provide an opportunity for them to improve their standings and pave the way for a run at Hoopla. 6. Carlton Crusaders (6-2) Carlton has participated in two tournaments and performed well in both. They finished in second place at their home tournament, the Carleton Classic, losing to St. Joe's in the final. In the GIT, they won the consolation final after losing to Holy Cross in the opening round. Their victory over Battleford at the Carlton Classic was significant, as it positioned them as the top contenders fo one of the two rural spots at Hoopla. After the Christmas break, they will need to defend their position against rural teams, as they will face some tough matchups. 7. Luther Lions (8-2) Luther began the season with a challenging tournament at the St. Francis Xavier Mike Dea Classic, finishing with a record of 2-2. Their losses came against the host team, FX Rams (#2 in AB), and Edmonton Christian, both of which are strong programs. Since that tournament, Luther has achieved an impressive 5-0 record in Regina league play and has been promoted to the A Pool, starting the second round with a victory over O'Neill. Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see how Luther performs in the upcoming games against Martin, Riffel, and Campbell. 8. Campbell Tartans (6-6) The Tartans have had a challenging start to the season, suffering six losses against Riffel, Martin, O'Neill, Holy Cross, and two highly regarded teams from Winnipeg at the BSSI. Other than the setback against Holy Cross, the Tartans have performed well and remained competitive in their other matches. They are hopeful of regrouping and achieving a strong performance after the break to secure one of the three available Hoopla spots for Regina. 9. Central Cyclones (5-4) Central played exceptionally well and came very close to defeating St. Joe's at the Carleton Classic, where they eventually finished in third place. Their other two losses occurred against teams from Alberta: Western Canada (Calgary) and Catholic Central (Lethbridge) during the Medicine Hat tournament. Additionally, a late loss to Peacock on December 17th negatively impacted their standing. As a 4A team, Central is not competing with most of these teams for Hoopla spots, but rather for its fifth consecutive title. The team has demonstrated its ability to compete with 5A teams and will have more opportunities to do so in the new year. 10. O'Neill Titans (8-4) The Titans got off to a strong start by winning their home tournament against North Battleford. They then participated in the Nelson Mandela Tournament in Calgary, where they finished in third place. However, they struggled in the opening round of league play, losing two games to Riffel and Martin. In the second round of Regina league play, they faced another setback, losing to Luther, which caused them to drop down the rankings. Other Notes The rural teams that just missed the rankings are North Battleford, St. Mary, and Peacock. Each of these teams has had strong performances at times, but they have also struggled against one another. I anticipate that one of them will emerge as the top team since they will all be competing in the same tournaments in the new year. Which one will it be? Clavet has started strong with a 9-0 record, but the toughest team they have faced is likely Tommy Douglas. We will be watching in the new year to see if they can break into the top ten. At present, there are three ranked teams in Saskatoon as we await the league play to advance into the premiere and championship divisions. Currently, Bowman and Beth have faced challenges against the top three teams, while BJM and Marion Graham have excelled in the B pool. We should have a clearer understanding of who the fourth team will be in the new year. Regina has a clear order, but we will see how the rest of round 2 finishes and what happens in round 3. PRESEASON RANKINGS - Nov 1/2024 With November 18th marking the opening day for basketball in Saskatchewan, it’s time to assess the top teams in the province this year. Hoopla will be hosted in Saskatoon, and the 5A field will feature three teams from Saskatoon, three from Regina, and two qualifying rural teams. As I analyze the provincial basketball landscape, I notice that many grade 12 players have graduated, which will likely affect the standings for 2023/24. However, several teams are prepared and have strong groups ready to step up and compete. Let’s take an early look at what I anticipate for the 2024/25 season. These rankings are based on conversations with coaches, basketball enthusiasts, and players themselves. The interesting aspect of team rankings is that they are not definitive; teams will ultimately earn their places at Hoopla through their performance. I have gathered information on where to watch these teams, so fans and college coaches can follow their progress when they are nearby. #1 Walter Murray Collegiate Mauraders (Saskatoon) The defending provincial champions are favored to repeat their success. They finished the 2023/24 season undefeated, winning tournaments such as BRIT and the Totem Classic in Ross Shepperd, Edmonton, AB. While the losses of Dillyn Morin (University of Saskatchewan), William Sawchyn (Golden Ticket post-grad), and Jeremy Proctor (Golden Ticket post-grad) will be felt, but this team was deep last year and Coach Scott Hawley will have them prepared to compete at a high level again. Junior Zach Hawley will be the driving force behind this team, continuing his many impressive performances going back to his freshman year. As intimidating as it sounds, he is more explosive and motivated than ever to keep his team at the top. Also returning is versatile guard Faisal Mahadi, who has been a crucial player for the Marauders; he will take on even more responsibility this season, with USport coaches eager to see his development early on. Sharp-shooting big man Nickolay Khivrich will step into the starting lineup, contributing both rebounding and spacing. Additionally, Isak Larson returns for his junior season, having had an excellent sophomore year and likely putting in significant work over the summer. With senior Darius Moss and several players moving up from the junior team, this squad will be very difficult to defeat this year. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: Totem Classic (Ross Sheppard; Edmonton, AB) - Dec 5 - 7 BRIT (Bedford Road; Saskatoon, SK) - Jan 9th to 12th MIT (Walter Murray; Saskatoon, SK) - Jan 30th to Feb 1st LIT (Luther; Regina, SK) - Feb 6 - 8 #2 Holy Cross Collegiate Crusaders (Saskatoon) It appears that the same showdown will occur for the third consecutive season. Holy Cross won the provincial title in 2022-23 but lost the city championship last season to Walter Murray. The provincial championship game was determined by rankings due to a labor stoppage, meaning they did not have another opportunity to face Murray. This year, Coach Josh Rutten has lost seven Grade 12 players from his roster, including key contributors like guard Jack Grey and 6'8" Aloka Fernando. Despite these losses, the presence of the best Grade 12 player in the province, 6'6" guard Kian Tyson, will keep them competitive. Kian had an outstanding summer on the EYCL circuit (Nike's summer circuit) with Genesis, showing significant improvement that is sure to attract Division 1 coaches' attention throughout the year. Alongside Kian, senior guard Moe Osman returns and is also drawing interest from coaches on both sides of the border, thanks to his smooth ball handling and finishing skills. I expect a breakout season from Goloom Bein, who can shoot from anywhere on the court. Additionally, I anticipate contributions from Raph Mutengalo and Lucien Tyson, both of whom had impressive junior seasons last year and significantly improved during the summer with their clubs and the provincial program. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: GIT (St. Joseph; Saskatoon, SK) - Dec 5-7th BRIT (Bedford Road; Saskatoon, SK) - Jan 9th to 12th MIT (Walter Murray; Saskatoon, SK) - Jan 30th to Feb 1st Tri-Prov (Harry Ainley; Edmonton, AB) - Feb 6-8th #3 Martin Collegiate Monarchs (Regina) In the 2023/24 season, the Martin Monarchs achieved a commendable 4th place finish in the regular season. However, their hopes for a successful Hoopla run were dashed with a quarterfinal loss to Campbell. Despite this setback, Coach Rob Thomson has to be optimistic about the upcoming season. The only significant loss for the team is the graduation of Cooper McKechnie (Medicine Hat College). Coach Thomson will have a strong starting core returning, including Kobe Thomson, Judah Frentz, Corbin Andres, and Aiden Newton. Additionally, the arrival of point guard Tommy Olson, who is moving to the city from Weyburn, adds to the team's potential. With plenty of depth available—thanks to the Martin junior program's undefeated season in 2023/24—the Monarchs are poised for success. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: Martin Tourney (Regina, SK) - Nov 22-23rd BOWLT (Bethleham/Tommy Douglas; Saskatoon, SK) - Nov 28-30th Brandon Tourney (Brandon, MB) - Dec 12-14th The ROCK (Regina Christian; Regina, SK) - Feb 27 - Mar 1 LIT - qualifier TBA #4 Archbishop M.C . O 'Neill High School Titans (Regina) Last season, the Titans made a strong run to the Regina city finals before losing to Riffel. This performance secured them a spot in Hoopla, the Saskatchewan provincial tournament, where they fell to Holy Cross in the bronze medal game. Coach Kellen Livingstone aims to bounce back with a solid group that won the Regina Junior Championship two seasons ago. However, he has lost six Grade 12 players from last year's roster, including guard Ethan Short (CTA West). This year, the team's performance will be anchored by Cher Madol, a 6'6" wing player known for his smooth play and dominant defensive skills, significantly altering how opponents attack. Madol is expected to be a USport prospect that college coaches will be eager to watch. Coach Livingstone will be looking for big seasons from Anaias Castillo, Drew Cameron, and Kylan Wol-Harden as they pursue a Regina City Championship and a provincial title this season. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: O'Neill Tourney (Regina, SK) - Nov 21 to 23rd Nelson Mandela (Calgary, AB) - Dec 5 to 7th BRIT (Bedford Road; Saskatoon, SK) - Jan 9th to 12th Crosstown Tourney (Leboldus and Winston Knoll; Regina, SK) - Jan 16-18th LIT - qualifier TBA #5 Micheal A. Riffel High School Royals (Regina) Ranking and anticipating this team for the 2024/25 season is quite challenging. They will be changing coaches, with Stephen Shields taking over after previously coaching at Campbell three seasons ago. He is known for being a skilled coach, particularly with Golden Ticket and their postgraduate team. This team has lost significant talent from their roster, which finished 2nd in the province in 2023/24 and 3rd in 2022/23. Key players who have graduated include Osagie Okundaye (Hodan Prep; Toronto), Kaiden Thomson (The Academy Phoenix), Tyleon Oceya (Regina Rams football), and Kyle Conteh (U of S Huskies football). With such talent leaving, it raises questions about their ability to compete for another Regina title and provincial medal. However, 6'8" big man Davin Berry will play a crucial role in their efforts. Despite focusing on football over the summer, Davin is an imposing player that few in the province can guard, and he is expected to make a significant impact on the basketball court this season. Additionally, role players like Ethan Aveyard, Ian Randall, and Grady Wilson will be stepping into larger responsibilities. With potential junior players Jevin Kasick and Joseph Lippai moving up, there is no doubt that Coach Shields will work to maintain the team's dominance. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: Martin Tourney (Regina, SK) - Nov 21-23rd Brandon Tourney (Brandon, MB) - Dec 12-14th CIT (Campbell; Regina, SK) - Jan 30 to Feb 1 LIT - qualifier TBA #6 St Joseph Collegiate Guardians (Saskatoon) This team will be intriguing to watch this season. Coach Paul Hansen will lose three key leaders to graduation: Will Stianson (Briercrest), Jeyvin Galura (Golden Ticket Post-grad), and Ben Pritchard (King's; Edmonton). Last season, they finished 4th in the Saskatoon league and fell just short of qualifying for Hoopla. Despite these losses, the team is filled with talent that played significant roles last season and is poised to take huge steps forward. Demi Akinmoyero, Raphael Ewejobi, and Nemo Arnold will all be looking to impress both as a team and individually. Joining them are juniors Kaden MacAngus, Mayo Alabi, and Lenandro Rego, creating a team with as much talent and depth as any in the province. It will ultimately come down to how they compete and execute on a game-to-game basis. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: Carelton Invitational (Prince Albert, SK) - Nov 29-31 GIT (St. Joseph; Saskatoon, SK) - Dec 5-7th BRIT (Bedford Road; Saskatoon, SK) - Jan 9th to 12th CIT (Campbell; Regina, SK) - Jan 30 to Feb 1 #7 North Battleford Composite High Vikings (North Battleford) In the 2023/24 season, North Battleford had an impressive post-season run, capturing the 5A rural championship and securing a fifth-place finish at Hoopla. Coach Ryley Woiden will need to regroup this season after graduating key players Labron Weenie- Waskahat and Arvin Rabino. Additionally, playing outside the city will present challenges, as their schedule includes nine tournaments with over 4,000 kilometers of travel. Although the loss of two key players may seem significant, the team still boasts plenty of talent. Sharpshooter Eston Glass will have the ultimate green light this season that will see USport and CCAA coaches keeping a close eye on him. Coach Woiden can also rely on the experience of three players—Mikal Bird, Deon Henry, and Emery Paskemin—who represented Saskatchewan basketball at the 2023 North American Indigenous Games. The team will also welcome big man Max Weran, who had an impressive performance at the U15 nationals this summer. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments: O'Neill Tourney (Regina, SK) - Nov 21 to 23rd Carelton Invitational (Prince Albert, SK) - Nov 29-31 JP II Tourney (North Battleford, SK) - Dec 2-4 C4 (Centennial; Saskatoon, SK) - Dec 13-15 Moose Jaw Invitational- Jan 10-12 WIT (Winnipeg, MB) - Jan 16-18 MIT (Walter Murray; Saskatoon, SK) - Jan 30th to Feb 1st St Mary Tournament (Prince Albert, SK) - Feb 6-8 North Battleford Tourney - Feb 28-Mar 2 #8 Campbell High School Tartans (Regina) Last season, Coach Zen Orobko led his team on an impressive playoff run. After finishing 5th in the Regina league standings, they secured a significant victory over Martin in the quarterfinals. They ultimately placed 3rd in Regina and earned a spot in Hoopla, where they lost to North Battleford. This year, Coach Orobko will face a very different roster, having graduated key players such as Rogan Fry (Golden Ticket Post-grad), Hayden Ginter, Zach Markenson (CTA West), and Ronin Patel (Golden Ticket Post-grad). I fully expect this team to be formidable this season and to make a serious run for the Regina City title. The team will be led by point guard Julio Ruiz, who is a strong defensive player, along with his backcourt partner, Treyson Perras who can do it all. Additionally, players like Adrien Raume and 6'7" big man Aiden Kreutzer are expected to improve as the season progresses Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: GIT (St. Joseph; Saskatoon, SK) - Dec 5-7th Brandon Tourney (Brandon, MB) - Dec 12-14th Crosstown Tourney (Leboldus and Winston Knoll; Regina, SK) - Jan 16-18th CIT (Campbell; Regina, SK) - Jan 30 to Feb 1 LIT - qualifier TBA #9 Carleton Comprehensive High School Crusaders (Prince Albert, SK) Carleton had an impressive run during the 2022/23 season, setting the stage for a strong 2023/24 campaign. Under Coach Randy Emerson, the team finished 2nd at the 5A rural qualifying tournament earning them a 7th seed at Hoopla. At Hoopla, they triumphed over Lloydminster Comp, finishing the tournament in 7th place. As they approach the 2024/25 season, the team is focused on building on their success. Although losing Jackson Hufnagel (King's; Edmonton) will be challenging, they will benefit from the return of a core group that includes Zane Litzenberger, Emerson Maccuaig, Clarence Ermine, and Everitt Moccasin-Bourke, all of whom played significant minutes as sophomores last season. This team is poised to be a formidable contender, both in the rural qualifying tournament and at Hoopla. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: Carleton Invitational (Prince Albert, SK) - Nov 29-31 GIT (St. Joseph; Saskatoon, SK) - Dec 5-7th Moose Jaw Invitational- Jan 10-12 Estevan Tourney - Jan 17-19 MIT (Walter Murray; Saskatoon, SK) - Jan 30th to Feb 1st St Mary Tournament (Prince Albert, SK) - Feb 6-8 North Battleford Tourney - Feb 28-Mar 2 #10 Moose Jaw Central High School Cyclones (Moose Jaw) - 4A team The only non-5A school to be recognized on this list truly deserves attention. The 2023-24 season marked the school's sixth consecutive appearance in the 4A championship game and their fourth consecutive provincial title. The team competes against a diverse range of opponents and has had several players advance to the post-secondary level over the years. Coach Barry Seaborn is committed to maintaining this tradition, especially since he only lost three Grade 12 players from his roster. The return of Chase Seaborn, Ben Ansel, Gerritt Gulutzan, Eli Juan, Lei Delizo and Max Simmons will anchor the team and Suliman Suliman joining the team full time this season should be enough to ensure their continued success this season. Their schedule this year will include the following tournaments to complement league play: Carleton Invitational (Prince Albert, SK) - Nov 29-31 Medicine Hat Tourney (Medicine Hat, AB) - Dec 6-7 Moose Jaw Invitational- Jan 10-12 Crosstown Tourney (Leboldus and Winston Knoll; Regina, SK) - Jan 16-18th Tri-Prov (Harry Ainley; Edmonton, AB) - Feb 6-8th North Battleford Tourney - Feb 28-Mar 2 Instead of Honorable mentions, here are my predictions for the Premier division teams in each city as well as my top 5 rural teams. Saskatoon Premiere League Walter Murray Marauders Holy Cross Crusaders St Joseph Guardians Aden Bowman Bears Bethlehem Stars Tommy Douglas Tigers Marion Graham Falcons Bishop J Mahoney Saints Regina Premiere League Martin Monarchs O'Neill Titans Riffel Royals Campbell Tartans Miller Mauraders Harvest City Reapers - 4A Leboldus Suns Luther Lions - 4A Rural Team North Battleford Vikings Carleton Crusaders (Prince Albert) Central Cyclones - 4A (Moose Jaw) Peacock Tornados - 4A (Moose Jaw) Clavet Cougars - 3A (Clavet)

I spent two days and a total of 26 hours physically in the gym at Rhode Island College in Providence, Rhode Island for the 26th annual National Prep School Invitational. This event has a histroy of producing high level college prospects as well as NBA talent. In my third year attending this event I left more impressed than ever before with the amount of talent on display. Below I break down over 35 prospects who caught my eye during my time in the gym. Some of these prospects are already committed to college programs but a majority of these players' recruitment is wide open. Enjoy, and feel free to reach out for more information on any of these talented prospects. Standout Players: Christian Humphrey (Class of 2025, 6'8", St. Thomas More) Christian Humphrey has emerged as a defensive stalwart, showcasing his exceptional prowess in the paint. Standing at 6'8" with an impressive 6'11" wingspan, Humphrey combines impeccable timing and athleticism to become a formidable shot blocker. His ability to deter opponents from scoring inside has been a key asset for his team. Humphrey's defensive presence not only disrupts the opposing team's offensive flow but also energizes his teammates, making him an invaluable player on the court. Kieran Mullen (Class of 2025, 7'0", St. Thomas More) Kieran Mullen is a versatile player who excels on both ends of the court. At 7'0", Mullen's height and wingspan make him a dominant force in the paint. Offensively, he is adept at catching lobs during transitions and set plays, showcasing his ability to finish strong at the rim. Defensively, Mullen is a reliable rim protector, effectively pinning shots against the backboard. His court vision and ability to distribute the ball cross-court further enhance his overall game, making him a well-rounded and valuable player. London Jemison (6'8", St. Thomas More) London Jemison, an Alabama commit from Bloomfield, CT, delivered an all-around performance that highlighted his versatility and skill. Standing at 6'8", Jemison demonstrated proficiency in three-point shooting, executing powerful dunks in traffic, and disrupting passing lanes defensively. His commitment to team dynamics was evident as he actively participated in maintaining bench decorum and supporting his teammates. Jemison's ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game makes him a highly sought-after prospect. Eli Jolin (Class of 2026, 6'6", Fort Erie International Academy) Eli Jolin's performance against Putnam Science was a testament to his remarkable shooting touch. The Montreal native consistently converted both open and contested shots with confidence, showcasing his scoring ability. At 6'6", Jolin's height and shooting skills make him a valuable offensive threat. His ability to score from various spots on the court keeps defenders on their toes, making him a player to watch in the coming seasons. Tristan Darko (Class of 2025, 6'4", William Academy) Tristan Darko led his team with an impressive 20 points against Lee Academy, including five successful three-pointers. His high basketball IQ was evident through his selection of high-percentage shots, resulting in an impressive 75% field goal conversion rate. At 6'4", Darko's ability to create and convert scoring opportunities makes him a key player for his team. His performance highlights his potential to excel at higher levels of competition. Parrish Edmond (Class of 2026, 6'5", PSA Hoops) Parrish Edmond's exceptional leaping ability was on full display at the National Prep School Invitational. Standing at 6'5", Edmond fearlessly attacked the rim, undeterred by defenders. His high-major athleticism and fearless approach make him a formidable offensive threat. Edmond's ability to finish strong at the rim and execute powerful dunks in traffic adds a dynamic element to his game, making him a standout player in his class. Abdullah Amzil (Class of 2025, 6'7", Drive Academy) Abdullah Amzil maintained consistent offensive momentum throughout the game against NBA Academy, contributing significantly to his team's performance. At 6'7", Amzil's height and skill set make him a versatile player. He currently holds offers from Wyoming, Kent State, and San Francisco, highlighting his potential and talent. Amzil's ability to score, rebound, and defend makes him a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster their roster. Mouhamed Camara (Class of 2025, 6'8", NBA Academy) Hailing from Senegal, Mouhamed Camara possesses the physical attributes and skill set indicative of a future professional player. Standing at 6'8", Camara's notable length and distinctive physique enhance his on-court presence. His ability to protect the rim, rebound, and score inside makes him a formidable player on both ends of the court. Camara's potential for growth and development positions him as a key prospect for the future. Mahliq Guiseppi-Kitson (Class of 2026, 6'6", Fort Erie International Academy) Mahliq Guiseppi-Kitson has garnered interest from numerous programs, including Stephen F. Austin, Iowa State, Morehead State, TCU, East Carolina, Arkansas State, and Western Michigan. Additionally, he holds offers from Providence, Stonehill, and Arizona State University. Standing at 6'6", Guiseppi-Kitson's athleticism and skill set make him a highly sought-after prospect. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the court makes him a valuable addition to any team. Benjamin Musoke (Class of 2025, RIG Mark) Benjamin Musoke's shooting mechanics are noteworthy, characterized by a high arc and smooth release. His attentiveness and coachability are evident both on the court and from the bench. At 6'5", Musoke's height and shooting skills make him a valuable offensive threat. His ability to score from various spots on the court keeps defenders on their toes, making him a player to watch during the remainder of the season. Deng Ngor (Class of 2027, 6'7", Fort Erie International Academy) Despite competing against older and more physically developed opponents from NBA Academy, Deng Ngor exhibited resilience and competitiveness. Standing at 6'7", Ngor effectively engaged in physical play within the paint, showcasing his strength and determination. His ability to hold his own against tougher competition highlights his potential for growth and development. Ngor's performance suggests that he has a bright future ahead in the world of basketball. Promis N'Landu (Class of 2026, 6'3", Fort Erie International Academy) Promis N'Landu's performance has attracted considerable attention from coaches. Standing at 6'3", N'Landu consistently delivers under pressure, maintaining a composed and business-like demeanor on the court. His ability to execute plays and contribute on both ends of the court makes him a valuable player. N'Landu's potential for growth and development positions him as a key prospect for the future. Aaron Ekwere (Class of 2026, 6'6", Drive Academy) Aaron Ekwere earned the moniker "Mr. Shut the Gym Down" due to his explosive dunks that electrified the crowd. Standing at 6'6", Ekwere's athleticism and ability to execute powerful dunks make him a dynamic and entertaining player to watch. His ability to finish strong at the rim and energize his team adds a dynamic element to his game, making him a standout player in this event. Ashton Reynolds (Class of 2025, 6'4", Williston Northampton School) Ashton Reynolds showcased extraordinary athleticism with impressive dunks and a relentless defensive approach. Standing at 6'4", Reynolds' efforts were recognized with an offer from Bryant University during the event. His ability to contribute on both ends of the court makes him a valuable player. Reynolds' potential for growth and development positions him as a key prospect for the future. Connor Swider (Class of 2025, 6'8", Worcester Academy) In a closely contested match against Williston, Connor Swider stepped up in the absence of key teammate Amir Jenkins. Standing at 6'8", Swider delivered exceptional shooting and defensive tenacity, embodying a competitive spirit. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game makes him a highly sought-after prospect. Swider's performance highlights his potential to excel at higher levels of competition. Gideon Ekukwai (Class of 2025, 6'8", Bridgeport Prep) Gideon Ekukwai's physicality was evident as he executed powerful dunks, resulting in a cut hand from the rim. Standing at 6'8", Ekukwai's strength and athleticism make him a formidable presence on the court. Off the court, he is noted for his humility and approachability. Ekukwai's ability to contribute on both ends of the court makes him an attractive prospect for post secondary programs. Ibrahim Gati (Class of 2025, 6'10", Darrow School) Ibrahim Gati's high motor and skill set distinguish him as a notable big man in the tournament. Standing at 6'10", Gati's height and athleticism make him a dominant force in the paint. He currently holds offers from Alabama State, Gardner-Webb, and Albany, highlighting his potential and talent. Gati's ability to contribute on both ends of the court makes him a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster their roster. Preston Edmead (Class of 2025, 6'1", Williston Northampton) In an exhilarating overtime matchup between Williston Northampton and Worcester Academy, Preston Edmead delivered an outstanding performance. Standing at 6'5", Edmead scored 25 points and demonstrated exceptional court vision and elite shooting capabilities. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game makes him a highly sought-after prospect. Edmead's performance highlights his potential to excel at Hofstra next season. Marco Varani (Class of 2026, 6'8", Elite Futures Prep) The Jamaican-Italian prospect from Seattle, Marco Varani, exhibited impressive shooting over the first two days of the tournament. Standing at 6'8", Varani successfully made seven three-pointers across two games and effectively attacked the rim. His ability to score from various spots on the court keeps defenders on their toes, making him a player to watch in the coming seasons. Varani's capacity for growth and development makes him a significant prospect for the future. Santiago Tricot (Class of 2026, 6'7", NBA Academy):   As the youngest player on a team predominantly composed of Class of 2025 athletes, Tricot showcased his ability to drive to the basket and finish above the rim, complemented by sound shooting mechanics. Daunte Jones (Class of 2026, 6'3", Hodan Prep):   Jones delivered a standout performance against Hoosac School, displaying notable leaping ability and a proficient shooting touch, effectively creating space and breaking down defenders. Payton Kamin (Class of 2025, 6'7", Worcester Academy) Standing tall at 6'7", Payton Kamin from Worcester Academy has consistently impressed with his fluidity and ability to create space for himself on the court. Hailing from Chicago, IL, Kamin's recent performance against Williston Northampton was nothing short of stellar, as he dropped a clean 21 points. Payton is a versatile player who can stretch the floor and finish with force at the rim, making him a valuable asset for any team. His mesmerizing spin move is a highlight in his offensive arsenal, allowing him to navigate through defenders with ease and execute high-percentage shots. Dante Censori-Hercules (Class of 2025, 6'7", Hodan Prep) When you look up ‘Jack-of-all-Trades’ in the dictionary, you'll likely find a photo of Dante Censori-Hercules. The 6'7" commit to Portland Men's Basketball from Hodan Prep embodies versatility on the court. It's not about what he can do; the real question is, what can't this guy do? Dante's skill set is incredibly diverse, as he excels in multiple facets of the game. Whether it's scoring, rebounding, defending, or playmaking, Censori-Hercules consistently delivers, making him an invaluable player who can adapt to any situation and thrive. Josue Kangundi (Class of 2025, 6'5", Bridgeport Prep) At 6'5", Josue Kangundi's performance at the National Prep School Invitational (NPSI) in Rhode Island was nothing short of a spectacle. Kangundi put up a loud 20 points, with the majority coming from powerful dunks in traffic. His strength is evident, as attempting to block him could result in serious injury due to his sheer force. Josue's ability to dominate in the paint and finish strong at the rim makes him a formidable presence on the court, and his physicality is a key asset for any team looking to bolster their interior play. Mate Mamrickishvilli (Class of 2025, 6'5", Covenant Prep) A prospect who excels in transition play, Mate Mamrickishvilli of Covenant Prep stands at 6'5" and hails from Kutaisi, Georgia. His ability to finish strong in transition is a standout feature of his game. Mamrickishvilli is highly effective in the passing lanes on defense, quickly turning steals into fast-break opportunities and finishing with emphatic dunks. Off the court, Mate is approachable and well-spoken, making him a well-rounded individual who brings both athleticism and character to any team. Zachary Downer (Class of 2027, 6'5", Hodan Prep) Take note of Zachary Downer, a 6'5" talent from Hodan Prep in Ontario. Despite his youth, Downer is exceptionally dynamic and exhibits great potential. In a recent match against Hoosac School at the NPSI in Rhode Island, Zachary executed impressive dunks that highlighted his athleticism and skill. He is a significant rising star from Canada, and his performances indicate a promising future in basketball. A.J. Towa (Class of 2026, 6'5", Drive Academy) A wickedly crafty scorer, A.J. Towa was a standout at the NPSI in Rhode Island. Towa, who represents Drive Academy, demonstrated his scoring prowess by getting buckets from a variety of spots on the court. His impressive performances have already earned him offers from Long Beach State and Tennessee at Martin, highlighting his potential and skill. A.J.'s ability to score in different ways makes him a valuable asset, and it is evident why colleges are eager to secure his commitment. Saad Chadhury (Class of 2025, 6'9", Hodan Prep) Saad Chadhury put on an impressive display in Rhode Island at the National Prep School Invitational (NPSI). Standing at 6'9", Chadhury showcased his defensive prowess by effectively protecting the paint and deterring opponents from scoring inside.His remarkable footwork enabled him to move around the court with agility, while his shooting ability extended past the free-throw line and beyond the three-point arc. Chadhury's high release and fluid mechanics make him a dependable shooter from various positions on the court. His versatility as a player who can effectively defend, rebound, and shoot makes him an invaluable asset for any team. Keoni Sacco (Class of 2026, 6'10", William Academy) Keoni Sacco is a player that coaches should be closely monitoring. At 6'10", Sacco demonstrated remarkable footwork for his size, allowing him to maneuver around defenders with ease. His ability to finish with either hand adds to his offensive versatility. While Sacco didn't take many shots during the game, his shooting mechanics looked promising during warm-ups, suggesting that he has the potential to develop into a reliable scorer. As a stock riser, Sacco's combination of size, skill, and potential makes him a prospect worth watching in the coming years. Efeosa Oliogu (Class of 2025, 6'7", William Academy) Fans of Butler Men's Basketball have every reason to be excited about their latest commit, Efeosa Oliogu. Standing at 6'7", Oliogu is a force to be reckoned with when driving to the basket. His downhill drives are a terrifying sight for defenders, as he often finishes with powerful dunks that electrify the crowd. Oliogu's performance in Rhode Island during the NPSI against quality international competition was a testament to his athleticism and skill. Notably, his shooting touch has improved significantly, making him a more well-rounded offensive threat. With his combination of size, athleticism, and scoring ability, Oliogu is poised to make a significant impact at the collegiate level. Lual Machol (Class of 2025, 6'9", Drive Academy) Lual Machol, a 6'9" center from Drive Academy, is a dominant force in the post. With excellent footwork and a strong back-to-the-basket game, Lual is a reliable scorer around the rim. His high basketball IQ and ability to read the game make him an extremely valuable player. Lual's presence in the paint, coupled with his scoring ability, makes him a key contributor to his team's success. Teron Murray Jr. (Class of 2025, 6'5", Covenant Prep) Teron Murray Jr., a 6'5" guard from Covenant Prep, is a dynamic player known for his scoring ability and playmaking skills. He has a quick first step that allows him to create his own shot and break down defenders. Teron's versatility as a scorer and facilitator makes him a threat in one-on-one situations and an essential asset to his team's backcourt. Garang Machol (Class of 2025, 6'9", Drive Academy) Garang Machol, a 6'9" power forward and center from Drive Academy, is a versatile big man who makes a strong impact in the paint. Known for his exceptional rebounding and shot-blocking abilities, Garang is a formidable defender. His height and athleticism enable him to finish effectively at the rim, making him a reliable scorer in the post. Garang's presence on the court is a significant asset for his team, as he can both protect the rim and contribute offensively. Bilal Osman (Class of 2025, 6'8", Elite Futures Prep) Bilal Osman, a 6'8" forward from Elite Futures Prep, is a versatile player with good size and athleticism. Effective in transition, Bilal excels at finishing at the rim and can guard multiple positions due to his defensive versatility. His ability to contribute on both ends of the court makes him a valuable asset for Elite Futures Prep. Performed so well he ended up committing to UMass after the event on his official visit. Josiah Roberts (Class of 2025, 6'4", Hodan Prep) Josiah Roberts, a 6'4" guard from Hodan Prep, is a sneaky athlete with exceptional leaping ability. His quick twitch and ability to break down defenders make him a reliable shooting guard. Josiah's scoring ability from beyond the arc adds a valuable dimension to his team's offensive game plan. His consistent performance makes him a standout player for Hodan Prep. Austin Omandi (Class of 2025, 6'6", Lee Academy) Austin Omandi, a 6'6" forward from Lee Academy, is known for his strength and athleticism. He excels in the paint, both on offense and defense, and has a relentless motor that makes him a formidable presence on the boards. Austin's physicality and determination set him apart and make him a key player for Lee Academy.

The 26th annual National Prep School Invitational, an esteemed event in the world of high school basketball, is set to unfold at the picturesque Rhode Island College in Providence, a location that has become synonymous with showcasing emerging basketball talent. This annual tournament has gained a reputation for attracting elite prep basketball programs and players, serving as a vital platform for young athletes aiming to make their mark in the sport. This year, the event promises to be particularly exciting, as it will prominently feature an impressive array of Canadian talent. Renowned Canadian programs such as Fort Erie International Academy, Crestwood Prep, William Academy, and Hodan Prep are gearing up to showcase their skills on this prominent stage, bringing with them a legacy of excellence in basketball development. These institutions have consistently produced top-tier athletes who have gone on to excel in both collegiate and professional basketball. The inclusion of these powerhouse programs not only elevates the level of competition but also highlights the growing prominence of Canadian basketball on the international stage. Furthermore, several standout Canadian players who are currently competing for American prep schools will also participate, adding to the rich tapestry of talent at the Invitational. This convergence of talent from both Canadian and American prep schools creates a dynamic and competitive atmosphere, offering players invaluable exposure to scouts and coaches from various collegiate programs. As the National Prep School Invitational approaches, anticipation builds among players, coaches, and basketball enthusiasts alike. The event is not just about the games; it represents a critical opportunity for young athletes to display their skills, work ethic, and potential in front of a wider audience. For many, this tournament could serve as a stepping stone to scholarships and future basketball careers. With the spotlight on these emerging stars, the Invitational promises to deliver thrilling matchups, showcasing the depth and diversity of talent that exists within the realm of prep basketball across North America. Fort Erie International Academy Fort Erie continues to solidify its reputation as a top development program, bringing a talented squad headlined by: Chris Kumu (6'2 Guard, 2025)  – A skilled shot creator who can punish the rim in the open court or through traffic. He has a smooth handle and excels at creating space for his jumper. Kumu also possesses excellent court vision, making him a capable playmaker. His defensive intensity allows him to pressure opposing guards effectively. Mahliq Guiseppi-Kitson (6'6 Guard, 2026)  – A versatile wing with strong defensive instincts and athleticism. He can guard multiple positions due to his length and quick feet. Offensively, he thrives in transition and finishes well at the rim. His developing outside shot makes him a promising perimeter threat. Promis N'Landu (6'4 Guard, 2026)  – A high-energy guard who excels in transition and has a developing perimeter game. His quick first step allows him to blow by defenders and get into the lane. N'Landu is a strong rebounder for his position, often grabbing boards and pushing the pace. His defensive instincts make him a disruptive presence on the perimeter. Deng Ngor (6'7 Forward, 2027)  – A promising young forward with a combination of length and mobility. He has a natural shot-blocking ability and alters shots in the paint. Ngor also has a soft touch around the basket and can step out to hit mid-range jumpers. His upside is tremendous as he continues to develop his offensive skill set. Jihad El-Khatib (6'7 Forward, 2025)  – A tough, physical presence in the paint with a refined scoring touch. He uses his body well to establish position and finish through contact. El-Khatib is also a capable passer from the post, finding open teammates when double-teamed. His defensive versatility allows him to guard both forward spots. Eli Jolin (6'6 Guard, 2026)  – A skilled wing who can knock down shots and contribute in multiple ways. He moves well without the ball, finding open spaces for catch-and-shoot opportunities. Jolin has a high basketball IQ, making smart plays on both ends of the floor. His ability to play multiple positions makes him a valuable asset. Committed Prospects: Tristan Beckford (Arkansas State), Marial Akuentok (Texas A&M) Hodan Prep Hodan Prep brings an imposing roster featuring size and scoring ability, led by: Saad Chaudhry (6'9 Forward, 2025)  – A rim-protecting big with offensive upside. He has great timing on shot contests and consistently alters attempts in the paint. Chaudhry also possesses a reliable hook shot and is working on extending his range. His rebounding ability provides his team with second-chance opportunities. Josiah Roberts (6'4 Guard, 2025)  – A dynamic guard who thrives in up-tempo play. He is an aggressive attacker who looks to get downhill and finish through contact. Roberts has a tight handle and can navigate through defensive pressure effectively. His leadership on the court helps elevate his teammates' play. Jaden Lee (6'5 Guard, 2025)  – A well-rounded scorer who can create his own shot. He has a smooth pull-up jumper and is effective in isolation situations. Lee also plays with great pace, knowing when to push the tempo or slow things down. Defensively, he is active and uses his length to disrupt passing lanes. Zachary Downer (6'6 Guard, 2025)  – A hard-nosed guard who can breakdown defenders off the dribble. He is comfortable pulling up from deep or shooting off movement. Downer’s ball-handling ability allows him to create space for his shot. He is also an underrated passer, often setting up teammates with sharp assists. Ian McBride (6'9 Forward, 2026)  – A developing forward with impressive footwork and rebounding ability. He has a strong base, allowing him to hold his position in the post. McBride’s mid-range jumper is coming along, giving him an added offensive weapon. His work ethic suggests he will continue to expand his game. Daunte Jones (6'3 Guard, 2026)  – A quick, athletic guard with strong defensive tools. He takes pride in shutting down opponents and contesting shots effectively. Jones has a reliable floater and is comfortable attacking the rim. His ability to read the game makes him a valuable asset in tight situations. Committed Prospects: Dante Censori-Hercules (Portland) William Academy William Academy boasts a balanced roster with talent at multiple positions, including: Tristan Darko (6'4 Guard, 2025)  – A crafty scorer with a high basketball IQ. He understands angles well and uses them to create scoring opportunities. Darko is also a strong finisher at the rim, capable of adjusting mid-air. His ability to run the offense makes him a key playmaker for his team. Keoni Sacco (6'9 Forward, 2026)  – A skilled big with touch around the basket. He has great hands and finishes well in traffic. Sacco also has developing passing skills, allowing him to facilitate from the post. His rim protection makes him a vital presence on defense. Deng Makeer (6'6 Guard, 2025)  – A slashing wing with explosive athleticism. He excels at getting downhill and finishing above the rim. Makeer is also an aggressive defender, often creating turnovers with his quick hands. His improving outside shot makes him a threat from beyond the arc. Trust Odia (6'6 Guard, 2027)  – A promising young prospect with elite length for his position. He uses his wingspan to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots. Odia is also a solid rebounder, securing boards on both ends of the floor. His offensive game is developing, with flashes of scoring versatility. Jenovie Kabey (6'5 Guard, 2026)  – A two-way player with strong defensive instincts. He takes pride in locking down opponents and forcing tough shots. Kabey’s offensive skill set includes a reliable mid-range jumper. His work ethic suggests he has significant upside. Currently holds and offer from East Carolina. Committed Prospects: Efeosa Oliogu (Butler) Crestwood Prep Crestwood continues to develop high-level talent, highlighted by: Colton Crowdis (6'4 Guard, 2026)  – A sharp-shooting guard with excellent range. He moves well off the ball, constantly relocating to find open looks. Crowdis has a quick release, making him a deadly threat from beyond the arc. He possesses above average playmaking skills that adds another dimension to his offensive game. Mangok Lok Gach (6'8 Forward, 2025)  – A versatile forward with great size and mobility. He is highly effective in transition and has a soft touch around the rim. Lok Gach can weave his way through traffic and play way above the rim, making him tough cover for opposing defenders. Defensively, his length allows him to alter shots and disrupt passing lanes. Myles Dehaney (6'0 Point Guard, 2027)  – A quick, shifty ball-handler with a high motor. He thrives in pick-and-roll situations, using his speed to create scoring opportunities. Dehaney is a tenacious on-ball defender, making life difficult for opposing guards. His leadership and poise at a young age set him apart from his peers. Lana Agbalese (6'8 Forward, 2025)  – A strong wing presence who excels in the open court. He has a high motor and is relentless in attacking the glass for second-chance points. Agbalese has solid post moves and can finish through contact. His versatility on the court makes him a valuable asset to Crestwood. Sami Uraz (6'6 Guard, 2026)  – A talented perimeter player with strong playmaking skills. He is effective at creating his own shot and has a smooth mid-range game. Uraz is also a capable passer who sees the floor well. His size and length give him an advantage when defending multiple positions. Christopher Tshibola (6'3 Guard, 2025)  – A tough, physical guard who thrives on both ends of the floor. He is an aggressive slasher, attacking the paint with confidence where he can score or distribute for an open shot. Tshibola plays at his own pace, often setting the tempo for the team while creating off the dribble for his teammates. His improving outside shot makes him a more complete offensive weapon. Committed Prospects: Oliver Wilson (Denver) Canadian Prospects in the U.S. In addition to these powerhouse Canadian programs, several top Canadian prospects will also be representing American prep schools: Kieran Mullen (7’0 Center, St. Thomas More)  – A skilled shooting athletic forward/center with a smooth offensive game. He has excellent footwork in the post and can stretch the floor with his outside shot. Mullen is a strong rebounder who uses his athleticism to finish above the rim. His defensive versatility allows him to guard multiple positions effectively. Ben Safran (6’1 Guard, New Hampton)  – A sharpshooting guard with a high basketball IQ. He moves well without the ball, constantly creating open looks. Safran’s quick release makes him a dangerous perimeter threat. His defensive intensity adds value to his overall game. Bennett White (6’7 Guard, The Newman School)  – A versatile forward with a well-rounded offensive game. He can stretch the floor with his shooting and finish strong inside. White also has a strong rebounding presence, securing boards on both ends. His combination of size and skill makes him a tough matchup. Warris Isaiah (6’8 Forward, Elite Futures Prep) — A very athletic forward/center from British Columbia who excels at generating second chance opportunities off the glass & finishes strong around the net. His paint rotation skills really help make him available for easy dump-offs & knows how to explode quickly for a dunk. Has solid defensive instincts and court awareness for his size. The National Prep School Invitational is set to provide an elite stage for these Canadian prospects to showcase their talent in front of college coaches and scouts. With top-tier competition and a wealth of talent, expect these players to make a significant impact throughout the event.

In the landscape of Canadian basketball, one name has been generating significant buzz: Favian Mbaoma , a 6'9" forward from the Western Canada Prep Academy (WCPA). Renowned for his exceptional skills and versatility, Mbaoma is rapidly emerging as one of the most promising big men in the country. A Standout Performer at WCPA Western Canada Prep Academy, based in Edmonton, Alberta, is dedicated to the athletic and academic development of its athletes, offering programs that compete at regional, national, and international levels. Within this environment, Mbaoma has honed his talents, becoming a pivotal player for the academy. With his dynamic size and versatility he's become the star of the program, a program that has sent multiple players to Division I such as Hudson Ward (Penn State) and Kavon Bradford (Buffalo). Impressive Shooting Prowess One of Mbaoma's standout attributes is his remarkable shooting ability. This season, he has been shooting approximately 45% from beyond the arc, a statistic that underscores his proficiency as a stretch forward. His capacity to consistently hit three-pointers not only spaces the floor but also poses a significant challenge for opposing defenses. Dominance in Tournament Play Mbaoma's impact was particularly evident during the 2024 Good Hoops Classic, where he led the Good Hoops 18U team to the platinum division title and earned MVP honors. His high motor, dominance in rebounding, shot-blocking abilities, and adeptness at finishing above the rim in traffic were on full display, solidifying his status as a prospect that coaches cannot afford to overlook. Favian really impressed me with his performance at the prestigious Tarkanian Classic in Las Vegas, NV. He's known for his ability to play above the rim, protect the paint and shoot the long ball, however his elite passing was etched in my memory after this event. Not only was he using his court vision to find open teammates but he was dishing the rock with a ton of flair and confidence. Growing Interest from NCAA Programs Mbaoma's exceptional performances have not gone unnoticed. He is attracting interest from a multitude of NCAA Division I programs, including: Arkansas Pine Bluff Boston University Butler Canisius Colorado State Cornell Furman GCU George Mason George Washington Georgia Southern High Point Idaho Iowa Jacksonville Lafayette Le Moyne North Texas Portland Sacramento State San Diego San Jose Stanford Stetson Stonehill Tarleton State Temple UC Bakersfield UC Riverside UIC UM Eastern Shore UMBC UT Martin Utah Valley Vermont University West Carolina UOW Milwaukee This burgeoning interest is a testament to his potential to excel at the collegiate level. He also currently holds 8 USPORTS offers from Calgary, Carleton, UBC, Waterloo, Laurier, Macewan, Manitoba and Nipissing. Favian Mbaoma exemplifies the blend of size, skill, and versatility that defines the modern basketball big man. His shooting accuracy, combined with his defensive capabilities and athleticism, make him a formidable presence on the court. As he continues to develop and refine his game, the future appears exceedingly bright for this rising Canadian talent.

What a weekend it was in Saskatoon! If you didn't tune in, you missed out on another amazing tournament that showcased some of the best talent Canada has to offer. The fact that a 100-year-old school in central Saskatoon consistently hosts the top tournament in Canada is a true testament to the dedicated staff, students, and the community. The students were incredibly loud all weekend, with the host Bedford students adopting teams as their own. Local schools showed up in huge numbers to support their classmates. In the end, it was the #2 ranked school in Alberta, St. Francis Xavier, that came out on top, defeating a very athletic Holy Cross team in the finals, which was a closely contested match until the final seconds. I attended every game in person during the tournament, and I was truly impressed by the talent on display. I received messages from people across the country asking about players on various teams. After the tournament, I sat down with fellow Maple Minute contributor Will Johnson (from City and Love), who was busy creating his fantastic videos throughout the event (be sure to follow him on Instagram as well). We decided to select two All-Star teams and a "Next-Up" team featuring the top five underclassmen from the tournament. We based our selections on the players’ performances throughout the tournament and their impact on their teams. It wasn’t easy, and we had some debates, but I genuinely believe these players stood out over the weekend. ALL-BRIT FIRST TEAM (Alphabetic Order) Aleksandar Popovic 6'6 Forward St Francis Xavier (Edmonton) Class of 2026 Aleksandar was a dominating presence in the paint all weekend. His classic post game is refreshing to watch. He consistently established position against defenders, and when the team faced a zone defense, he effectively sealed off the defenders to create space. His exceptional footwork allows him to utilize a variety of moves and counters to drive to the rim and draw fouls. Additionally, his ability to make free throws and comfortably extend his shooting range to hit three-pointers makes him very challenging to guard. Defensively, I found him even more impressive. Aleksandar possesses a great feel for the game and directed his teammates all over the floor, showcasing how effective he will be at the next level. He is a strong rebounder who competes hard through contact and box-outs to secure the ball. Once he gains possession, he demonstrates his ball-handling skills by pushing the ball up the court and leading the fast break, eliminating the need for an outlet pass and sets up his teammates for easy points. His athleticism is often underrated. In the final game, he caught the ball in the high post and, with one quick dribble, exploded to the rim, slamming the ball off the backboard. While it didn't result in points, it sent a clear message that he came to play and would be the dominant player in the gym. Kian Tyson 6'6 Guard Holy Cross (Saskatoon) Class of 2026 Kian was as impressive this weekend as I have ever seen him before. His unique skill set allows him to play as a guard on offense and as a rim-protecting big man on defense, and he excels in both roles. He scores in a variety of ways, making it hard to believe that it’s the same player doing it all. His dunks, whether in traffic or on the fast break, showcase his dominance as an athlete. Meanwhile, his mid-range and three-point shooting display a finesse that reflects a deep understanding of the game. Kian knows how to get to his spots to score when his team needs points while also distributing the ball to keep his teammates engaged. Kian's biggest impact is on the defensive end, where he is a game-changer. As Holy Cross employs a pressing defense, he has an elite feel for the game that enables him to anticipate passes and shoot gaps for easy steals. If opponents manage to get past the press, he quickly settles into the back line of the defense, where he stands out as one of the best shot blockers I have seen in high school basketball—players tend to avoid challenging him. His quick second jump allows him to regularly grab rebounds from shots he just contested and then initiate the fast break. Nathan Yambayamba 6'5 Wing St Francis Xavier (Edmonton) Class of 2027 Nathan is incredible to watch and seems to constantly take leaps forward every time I see him. His athleticism was incredible to watch, as he can run the floor and play defense with such ease. During BRIT, though, it was his shooting from 3 that truly impressed me. In the semi-finals against Walter Murray, he knocked down 6, and that was just too much for the hometown team to overcome. The other skill that stood out was his ball handling. With their point guard out for the weekend, Nathan took on some lead guard duties and looked smooth in his ability to get the team into various sets and distribute the ball. While this isn't a role he would fill often in his basketball future, it did show his ability to think and adapt to the game, which impressed me. Settimo Yugu 6'9 Forward Kildonan-East (Winnipeg) Class of 2027 Settimo was a standout throughout the weekend, and I’m grateful I had the opportunity to watch him play in person. His 6'9" athletic frame instantly catches attention when he enters a gym, and he competes with a fluidity that is enjoyable to observe. Over the weekend, it became clear how he alters shots on defense, making players think twice about attacking the rim. He excels at grabbing rebounds well beyond his designated area and consistently makes the game challenging for opposing forwards. One skill that particularly impressed me was his finishing around the rim. He secures offensive rebounds at a high rate and almost always converts those opportunities into points. He uses a clever approach to attacking the rim, employing a variety of hooks and finger rolls to maneuver around any defenders. Even when fouled, he often finds a way to score, showcasing his ability to apply the right touch on each attempt, making it appear effortless. When he goes to the free-throw line, he is an excellent shooter, punishing defenses for fouling him, and his form hints at the potential to extend his shooting range to the 3-point line. Zach Hawley 6'1 Guard Walter Murray (Saskatoon) Class of 2027 Zach had another weekend that showed again why we speak so highly of him. He scored the ball when his team needed him to finish 2 of his 4 games with over 40 points. He hit shots with an ease that no grade 11 player should have. His ability to get to spots that he feels comfortable in was on full display, whether it was his dribble pull-up at the free throw line, his cutting-off ball to free himself for the corner 3, or the dribble handoff 3 at the top, he just finds ways to make baskets. Since I get to watch Zach play often, 2 specific things stood out to me this weekend that encompass how much he keeps growing as a player and how he will adapt to moving on in his basketball career. The first was a dunk, and yes it is impressive that he dunks every game on the fast-break, but this was different. As I think FX keyed on him, Zach made a beautiful backdoor cut and found himself wide open in the key on the backside which he finished with a nice 2 hand dunk. He could have gone to the ball and looked for his shot, but he made a nice cut and trusted his teammates to get him the ball, it was a simple and smart play. The second was against Kildonan East, who featured a few taller players, and Murray went to a 2-3 zone with Zach as the middle guy on the back. His talking and movement to guard a 6'9 monster was impressive and showed leadership skills every coach wants. ALL-BRIT SECOND TEAM (Alphabetic Order) Calvin Kuzyk 6'1 Guard West Vancouver Class of 2026 Calvin is a player that I had not seen play in person. In his four games at BRIT, he showed us what a versatile floor general he is, as in each game, he found a way to let the game come to him. Through the first three games, I was impressed with his passing ability, as he consistently got his teams into their sets and found players for easy buckets. You could see he had a high basketball IQ and was an extension of his coach on the floor. In the third-place game, he became a scorer and finished with 40 points. He showed a very good shooting touch all weekend, but in the final, he aggressively got to his spots in both the mid-range and beyond the 3-point arc. Demi Akinmoyero 6'5 Wing St Joseph (Saskatoon, SK) Class of 2026 Demi started the tournament with a bang in his team match-up with Brooks. In an up-and-down, free-flowing game, we saw him at his best running out on the wing and attacking the rim. His ability to get into the paint and convert is his best skill, but he was also able to rebound extremely well. Demi also shows signs of being a good communicator and leader. It is clear his team looks to him, and he steps up. Later in the tournament, we saw glimpses of him shooting the 3-ball at a high rate and with continued improvement, he is a player to watch Hayden Van Maarion 5'10 Guard Medicine Hat Class of 2026 Hayden showed a lot of poise over the weekend as his team faced a lot of very good athletic teams. In several games, he was faced with breaking some good and effective presses and his ability to get his team into their press break and stay calm was noteworthy. He scores the ball well at all 3 levels, and is a very aggressive rebounder for his size, I noted several occasions when he came out of the pack with the ball despite being the smallest player regularly. Max Smith 6'1 Guard Margrath (Magrath, AB) Class of 2026 Max had an outstanding weekend and showed why he will be on a lot of coaches' radar for next season. He is a strong guard who gets himself to the basket with a great deal of success. In the first game of the tournament, we saw him continue to challenge Kian Tyson at the rim and find a way to score. Throughout the tournament, he led his team by being aggressive, getting the team organized and into their sets. He showed the ability to be an effective lead guard finding his shooters in rhythm and also setting up bigs. Moe Osman 6'2 Guard Holy Cross (Saskatoon) Class of 2026 Moe had another outstanding weekend. His ability to attack and pressure defenses is elite. Once he gets to the rim, he finishes at a high rate thanks to his athleticism and touch. It’s clear his confidence is growing, as what used to be layups are now often emphatic dunks, whether the defense challenges him or not. I've noticed that he is also looking to take his shot more frequently and is finding space to do so within the offense. Another aspect that caught my attention this weekend is how Moe finds his rhythm while ensuring his teammates find theirs as well. While playing alongside Kian, Moe smoothly transitions between attacking and being a playmaker. This is especially evident in close games where his team needs him to take on multiple roles. ALL-BRIT GRADE 10 TEAM I also wanted to take some time to recognize some of the Grade 10 players who stood out throughout the tournament. I will not do long write-ups as we will be following them for the next 2 years and will surely have deep dives on all these talented players. Justice Arciaga 5'10 Guard St Francis Xavier (Edmonton, AB) Class of 2028 Lado Pitia 5'11 Guard Medicine Hat Class of 2028 Lincoln Dickson 5'11 Guard O'Neill (Regina, SK) Class of 2028 Lucien Tyson 5'10 Guard Holy Cross (Saskatoon, SK) Class of 2028 Terry Ogbeide Jr. 6'4 Guard Kildonan-East (Winnipeg, MB) Class of 2028 As always at BRIT, the talent assembled was impressive and competed at a high level. These 15 players stood out, but there were at least 7-10 others that I would seriously look at if I were still coaching in the CCAA. The level of athleticism and skill that players have is mind-boggling. I would like to thank the BRIT for hosting us and making sure we had access to everything we needed to cover the tournament and players. I highly suggest that more coaches make their way out to see this tournament in the future or contact me about players for next year. All of the games are available on BRIT's YouTube page if you would like to check out any of the above-mentioned players. https://www.youtube.com/@britbasketball . PHOTO credit for all the action photos goes to @theBritclassic and @bray.elliot on Instagram

Efeosa Oliogu, a standout 6’6” forward from Markham, Ontario, has officially committed to Butler University. Announcing his decision on CBC at 6 p.m. tonight, Oliogu brings a wealth of talent and experience to the Bulldogs’ basketball program. Overtime Elite Experience During the 2023-2024 season, Oliogu showcased his skills with Overtime Elite’s City Reapers. In 13 regular-season games, he averaged 8.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, and nearly a steal and a block per game. His standout performance came on January 23, 2024, against the YNG Dreamerz, where he notched 15 points and two blocks. In the playoffs, he excelled in the semifinals against the Cold Hearts, leading the game with 19 points and five rebounds, contributing significantly to the City Reapers’ second consecutive OTE Championship. AAU Success with Canada Elite Oliogu’s prowess was evident on the AAU circuit, where he led all scorers in the 2023 17U division of the Under Armour Association (UAA), averaging 20.8 points per game. His exceptional play propelled Canada Elite to the 2023 17U UAA Finals, underscoring his ability to perform at a high level against top-tier competition. Return to Canada and Leadership at William Academy After his tenure with Overtime Elite, Oliogu returned to Canada for his final high school season at William Academy under Coach Skinner. His return was marked by a spectacular poster dunk on a 7 footer, signaling his readiness to dominate the Ontario Scholastic Basketball Association (OSBA). In a notable game against Bill Crothers Secondary School, Oliogu’s presence was pivotal, adding significant firepower to William Academy’s offense. I spoke with one of his long time teammates — Tristan Darko about his experience with Efeosa. He had this to say: I’d have to honestly say I’ve never had a better teammate. It’s rare to have your leader always be the hardest worker and most supportive to everyone on the squad. His leadership and energy is under-appreciated and it’s been great to experience it. Always first in the gym, pushing everyone to be the best version of themselves in practice just an overall role model for any team. — Tristan Darko His summer performance at the FIBA U18 AmeriCup further highlighted his versatility, where he averaged 10.2 points per game with a 44.9% field goal percentage, playing a crucial role in securing a bronze medal for Team Canada. Scouting Report According to 247Sports, Oliogu is a “big-bodied wing athlete and downhill creator,” known for his explosive leaping ability and strength. His defensive versatility and playmaking instincts make him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor. While his perimeter shooting is an area for development, his ability to drive and finish at the rim is exceptional. Butler University’s Gain Oliogu’s commitment to Butler University is a significant addition to the Bulldogs’ roster. His combination of athleticism, experience against elite competition, and leadership qualities are expected to make an immediate impact in the NCAA. As he transitions to collegiate basketball, fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how his game evolves and contributes to Butler’s success in the coming seasons. For a glimpse of Oliogu’s skills, you can watch his highlights from the 2024 Under Armour Association circuit: Recruit Canada.