Tip-off for the Canada West Basketball season takes place on Friday for the UNBC Timberwolves men’s and women’s teams.
Women’s Head Coach Sergey Shchepotkin says everything is falling into place. “It seems like the puzzle is coming together, we show a pretty good game now. Our defense is more aggressive and looks pretty good so we are really excited about the season.”
Despite a 3-15 record last year, the Timberwolves were in a lot of close games especially at home but Shchepotkin believes they have a chance to climb up the standings. “Two years ago, we had a lot of girls who were playing university basketball for the very first time and it takes time for them to understand what it is all about, so I am glad every year we are getting more experience.”
The head coach could also get a major boost from this year’s recruiting class. “We are lucky to have Madison Landry and Alina Shakirova from Duchess Park who had a big year last year along with post-player Kassidy Dick from Vanderhoof.”
On the men’s side, an injury-riddled campaign which included a season-ender to Billy Cheng forced some younger players into the lineup for the UNBC men who finished 4-16 last season.
However, men’s Head Coach, Todd Jordan is cautiously optimistic. “I do know the guys have improved a ton and I feel positive we can go out and surprise some teams but until you go out and play those games you don’t really know.”
The team is also reloading talent-wise which includes the return of Nolan Hansen who suffered a knee tear last year.
“We really missed Nolan’s grit and toughness last year. Sam Zhang is a really talented individual, but I think the one guy who will fly under the radar will is James Agyeman. He played at Wilfred Laurier a couple of years ago and was forced to red shirt last year due to a transfer rule.”
Both teams begin on the road in Winnipeg on Friday and Saturday against the Wesmen before returning home November 11th and 12th when they host Alberta.
PGSS grad Tyrell Laing is also a member of the UNBC Timberwolves.
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