UPEI Panthers set for championship glory: Men's and Women's Basketball Teams ready for battle
By Thomas Becker
Men's Basketball
The men's basketball team worked tirelessly throughout the season to secure a first-round bye, accomplishing the feat in their final regular-season game with a dominant 20-point victory over the Cape Breton Capers. Their efforts earned them a 12-8 record and a direct ticket to Saturday night's semifinals, where they will face either the sixth-seeded Saint Mary's Huskies or the third-seeded Capers.
The Panthers have been led by fifth-year veteran Kamari Scott, who finished in the top-10 in the conference in scoring with an average of 14.1 points per game. Third-year guard Kyree Thompson emerged as a crucial contributor in the latter half of the season, finishing eighth in the conference with 14.2 points per game. His resurgence, combined with the dominant defensive presence of Daniel Gonzalez Longarela (9.3 points, 10.1 rebounds), the veteran leadership of Sam Chisholm (10.1 points), and the growing confidence of rookie Hugo Bermejo (7.1 points, 3.4 assists), has the Panthers well-equipped to make a deep run. With a balanced attack and a determined squad, UPEI has all the tools needed to capture their first championship title since the 2002-03 season.
Women's Basketball
The women's basketball team faces a tougher road to the championship, needing to win three games in three days to claim the title. Their journey begins on Friday night against the UNB Reds, a team they defeated twice during the regular season. A victory would propel them into Saturday night's semifinals, where they would face the Acadia Axewomen—one of their most familiar playoff rivals during head coach Matt Gamblin's tenure. The two squads split their four meetings during the regular season, setting the stage for what promises to be another intense battle.
The Panthers' success has been driven by a trio of veteran stars who powered them to an impressive 14-6 record. Leading the charge is Lauren Rainford, who averaged 18.6 points per game, ranking seventh in the nation. UPEI also boasts the sharpshooting prowess of Devon Lawlor, who drained 42 three-pointers at an efficient 39.3% clip—good for fifth in U SPORTS. Additionally, Grace Lancaster had a breakout season, posting a career-high 12.3 points per game. Her two-way impact will be crucial, as opponents will undoubtedly focus on containing Rainford's offensive production.
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