After spending the day touring Saskatoon, Sharpy and I made our way to the campus of the University of Saskatchewan, where the Huskies were hosting the Regina Cougars in Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) basketball action.
I normally review the venue on this blog, but this is a Canadian university gym, so there is not much to pass on. Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the Physical Activity Centre (PAC) is the unique views from the running track that surround the court. There is a small food stand with massive lineups and a beer concession ($5) but that's about it. On to the games.
Game 1 - Regina Cougars 83 at Saskatchewan Huskies 72 (Women's)
Am I the only one who finds that calling a women's team Cougars to be rather amusing? Probably. Regina players are definitely not amused as they are the #1 ranked team in the country with a 19-0 record (eat that Patriots!) while Saskatchewan came in at #3 nationally with a 15-4 mark and a 10-game winning streak themselves, as well having won 23 in a row at home. Something would have to give and it turned out to be the Huskies' streaks as Regina used a 23-14 third quarter to pull away and win 83-72 to finish their perfect season.
The quality of basketball wasn't that good though, with a lot of poor shots, particularly from in close where both teams had trouble. Regina shot 48% from the field compared to Saskatchewan's 35% and that was the main difference in the game.
Game 2 - Regina Cougars at Saskatchewan Huskies (Men's)
The men's game was far less interesting as Saskatchewan was the best team in the West with a 14-5 record (and like the women, ranked #3 in the nation) while Regina was 5-14. Sure enough, the game was a blowout with Saskatchewan winning 110-70. I'm not sure I've seen a team more overmatched than Regina in this one; it was ugly. Some pictures are below.
Matt Forbes dunks
Great views from the running track
Forbes with a rebound
Game over already
Notes
Both teams honoured their players who were reaching the end of their eligibility. The women's celebration took place after their loss, while the men's party happened before their game. Both were done well and a good tribute to the players, including three of the men who had played on the 2010 national championship team.
Next Up
I found another game later today in the Junior A Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League. The Kindersely Klippers are hosting the Battlefords North Stars, so we will stop in there on our way to Swift Current, where we will check out the Broncos hosting the Moose Jaw Warriors on Family Day (Monday). Check back Tuesday to see what happened.
Best,
Sean
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