Huskies stand atop ACAC Men's Basketball on home court

Fort McMurray, Alta. (March 2, 2024) - St. Mary's University Lightning 79 Keyano Huskies 94

For the first time in Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) history, the Keyano College Huskies stand atop the podium in Men's Basketball. 

A 94-79 win against the St. Mary's University Lightning confirmed the Huskies ascension to the top of the podium Saturday night after silver in 2022 and a fourth-place finish in 2023. 

"Words can't really describe it," Head Coach Jeremy Wielenga said. "It was weird year that had a lot of ups and downs and highs and lows. These guys came together at the right time and what a special weekend and special moment. I couldn't be more thankful." 

Bursting out to a 25-19 lead after one quarter, the Huskies increased that lead by seven at the half. The Lightning fought back to win the third quarter 13-12, but a wild 29-26 fourth quarter went the Huskies' way to close out the match. 

Five Huskies finished the game in double digits, led by 19 points from DJ Haynes as well as 18 each from Evan Meyer and Keenan Miller. Omeechi Williams added 13 and Efosa Omorogbe added 11 off the bench. Overall, the Huskies shot 54.8% (34-for-62) from the field, making 37.5% (9-for-24) of their three-point shots. They also made 17 of 23 attempted free throws. 

The Lightning were led in scoring by Brock Dewsbery's 27 points as well as 17 points from Caleb Jipp and 15 from Pelumi Ajayi. Over the course of the game, the Lightnig shot 41.9% (26-for-62) from the field, making a trio of three-point shots. They also made 24 free throws throughout the course of the contest. 

The Huskies will now serve as the ACAC representative at the 2024 Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Men's Basketball National Championship, hosted by Mount Allison University from March 13-16, 2024. 

Players of the Game:
St. Mary's University Lightning | #10 Johnpaul Okodua
Keyano Huskies | #12 DJ Haynes