The U Sports men’s basketball quarterfinals delivered thrilling results, setting the stage for an exciting semifinal lineup. Key matchups showcased impressive performances from various teams as they sought to secure their spots in the semifinals.
Quarterfinal Highlights
In a tightly contested match at Jack Simpson Gym in Calgary, the Toronto Metropolitan Bold triumphed over the UBC Thunderbirds with a score of 97-91. The Bold made a remarkable comeback, outscoring UBC 34-25 in the final quarter. Aaron Rhooms led his team with 24 points and nine rebounds, supported by Gabriel Gutsmore, who added 23 points, and Kevin Toth, who contributed 21 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists.
- Top Performers:
- Aaron Rhooms – 24 points, 9 rebounds
- Gabriel Gutsmore – 23 points
- Kevin Toth – 21 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists
The Thunderbirds initially held a 55-47 lead at halftime. However, the Bold’s strong third quarter, where they outscored UBC 26-11, shifted the momentum. UBC’s Holt Tomie and Nikola Guzina each scored 16 points, while Nylan Roberts and Raj Dhadda contributed 13 points each, with Roberts achieving a double-double by adding 10 rebounds.
Upcoming Semifinals
The Bold are set to face the Carleton Ravens in Saturday’s semifinals. The Ravens secured their position by defeating the Laval Rouge et Or 85-69 in another quarterfinal clash. Key players for Carleton included Aubrey Dorey Havens with 15 points and five assists and Tyler Brown with 11 points.
- Carleton vs. Laval Highlights:
- Carleton Ravens – 85, Laval Rouge et Or – 69
- Top Performer: Chris Tshibola (Laval) – 27 points
In another exciting matchup, the top-seeded Victoria Vikes overpowered the Calgary Dinos, securing a 100-86 victory. Geoffrey James led the Vikes with 17 points, while Shadynn Smid added 16 points. The Vikes dominated early, leading 57-33 at halftime, ensuring their place in the semifinals against the Bishop’s Gaiters.
Bishop’s Gaiters’ Performance
The Bishop’s Gaiters also claimed their semifinal spot with a 98-85 win over the Acadia Axemen. Charles Robert was a standout player for the Gaiters, scoring 30 points and grabbing nine rebounds. Etienne Gagnon supported the effort with a double-double of 16 points and 14 rebounds.
- Bishop’s Gaiters vs. Acadia Highlights:
- Bishop’s Gaiters – 98, Acadia Axemen – 85
- Top Performer: Charles Robert – 30 points, 9 rebounds
Streaming Information
All semifinal matchups will be available for streaming live on CBC Gem, providing fans the opportunity to follow the thrilling action as teams compete for a place in the finals.
This week’s playoff performances have set a high bar of competition among the teams, making the U Sports basketball semifinals a highly anticipated event.
