Xavier Moon led the Winnipeg Sea Bears in scoring, almost securing the team’s first CEBL championship victory with his previous five points. In a crucial moment during Target Score Time, Moon opted to pass the ball to DJ Burns, who swiftly relayed it to Simon Hildebrandt at the three-point line. Hildebrandt’s shot sealed the Sea Bears’ triumph.
Reflecting on his championship-winning shot, Hildebrandt expressed a mix of emotions, stating it took him a while to fully grasp the reality of the moment. His journey to this pinnacle started over three years ago when he became the top pick in the Canadian Elite Basketball League’s U Sports draft from the University of Manitoba.
Hildebrandt, a 23-year-old Winnipeg native, has excelled in the CEBL, earning the Developmental Player of the Year honor twice and later playing college basketball at High Point and Washington State. He is set to embark on his first professional overseas stint with BBC Bayreuth in Germany.
Describing the title-winning shot as a significant milestone, Hildebrandt emphasized the valuable lessons he has learned from various teams and coaches throughout his career. His success story underscores the importance of nurturing Canadian talent, particularly from U Sports, within the CEBL.
The league’s shift towards promoting homegrown players is evident in its recent initiatives, such as “CEBL Signing Day,” focusing on recruiting talent from Canada’s university and college systems. Hildebrandt advocates for highlighting the high level of U Sports basketball and the pathway it provides to the professional ranks.
Despite facing challenges in his CEBL journey, including limited playing time and tough competition within the team, Hildebrandt’s dedication and team-first attitude have been instrumental in the Sea Bears’ success. His stellar performance in critical games, culminating in the championship victory, showcases his growth and resilience.
Looking ahead, Hildebrandt’s basketball journey could potentially lead him to the national team, a prospect he views with pride and determination. His remarkable season statistics and contributions to the Sea Bears’ triumph underscore his potential for further achievements in the sport.
As the CEBL enters its ninth season, stories like Hildebrandt’s serve as a testament to the league’s commitment to fostering local talent and providing a platform for aspiring Canadian basketball players to shine on the national and international stage.