Xavier Moon’s last five points brought the Winnipeg Sea Bears within two points of their first CEBL championship victory. During Target Score Time, Moon, a three-time MVP, could have taken the winning shot himself but instead passed the ball to DJ Burns, who quickly passed it to Simon Hildebrandt beyond the three-point line. Hildebrandt’s shot secured the Sea Bears’ win.
Reflecting on the winning shot, Hildebrandt expressed how surreal the moment felt, taking a while to sink in. His journey to that pivotal moment began over three years ago when he was the top pick in the CEBL’s U Sports draft from the University of Manitoba.
Hildebrandt, a native of Winnipeg, has had a remarkable CEBL career, winning Developmental Player of the Year twice and later playing in the NCAA for two years before signing with BBC Bayreuth in Germany for the upcoming season.
The championship-winning shot marked a significant milestone in Hildebrandt’s journey, showcasing his growth and perseverance through various challenges. The CEBL’s focus on Canadian talent, especially nurturing local players like Hildebrandt, underscores the league’s commitment to fostering homegrown stars.
The league’s shift to “CEBL Signing Day” emphasizes signing players from Canada’s university and college systems, showcasing the talent present in U Sports. Hildebrandt believes this pathway is crucial for aspiring Canadian players to transition to professional basketball successfully.
Hildebrandt’s success could potentially lead to a spot on the national team, a dream he has long cherished despite facing setbacks. His dedication and resilience have been evident throughout his CEBL career, culminating in the championship-winning performance that solidified his place as a rising star in Canadian basketball.