It was all on the line for the Dinos men’s basketball team Fri., Feb. 8, at the Jack Simpson Gymnasium. A win and they stay alive, a loss and it was another early exit.
It was evident that a determined team took the floor, ready to give it their all. Unfortunately they were matched up against a University of Winnipeg Wesmen team that was quick, loose and on their game. Using amazing foot speed and a precision attack, the Wesmen overextended the Dinos defence and, despite leaving it all on the floor, the Dinos fell 88–73. They were uptight, they were nervous and now their season is over.
Saturday was another story altogether.
Now officially eliminated, the hometown boys had nothing to lose. Head Coach Dan Vanhooren had the luxury of playing his fifth-year players more than usual and the departing trio made their swan song worthwhile. Jeff Loomis led the way with 19 points, Adam Begley added 16 and Rich Wiebach turned in a double-double performance with 10 points and 10 rebounds. The Dinos were distributing the ball, they were having fun and they were loose. The result? A crushing 103–88 victory over the Wesmen, ending the season on a high note.
A poor-shooting, turnover-plagued first game gave way to a shooting gallery on the second night, indicative of the Dr. Jeckyl/Mr. Hyde syndrome that has plagued this team all year. However, there were some definite bright spots over the weekend for those with an eye on next season. John Riad was dominant running the point and rookie Chris Wright was a defensive force in the paint with five blocks over the two games.
All in all, a second straight season without a playoff berth is a bitter disappointment, but there are some very promising signs coming out of the final weekend. If Riad’s maturation at point continues into next season, the question won’t be will they improve, but by how much.