The Winnipeg Sea Bears clinched their first Canadian Elite Basketball League championship by defeating the Brampton Honey Badgers 98-84 in the league’s single-game final on Saturday. Simon Hildebrandt, a local favorite, secured the victory with a three-pointer in front of a record crowd of 12,519 at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, with Xavier Moon, a three-time CEBL MVP, leading the Sea Bears with 29 points, including seven rebounds and six assists. Moon, who returned to the CEBL this season after a five-year absence, earned his third Finals MVP accolade, aiding Winnipeg in overcoming the absence of injured star forward Teddy Allen.
“It’s surreal to be back in this setting. Winning is familiar to me, but achieving it in a city that has never won a playoff game holds special significance,” Moon expressed. “This championship is more meaningful than the first. I am genuinely happy for my teammates and the city of Winnipeg.”
Jelani Watson-Gayle, a Sea Bears guard, contributed with five three-pointers off the bench, while Hildebrandt added four threes and finished with 24 points. The Honey Badgers’ Sean East II led his team with 27 points, supported by Trentyn Flowers with 20 points. Despite trailing 46-42 at halftime and 73-60 going into the final quarter, Brampton fought hard.
Sea Bears’ head coach Mike Raimbault commended the team’s efforts, stating, “I am thrilled for everyone celebrating today; this championship is well-deserved.”
Originally planned as a three-game series concluding on Sunday, the CEBL championship was altered due to court conditions in the first game, leading to a single-game format. The Honey Badgers aimed for their second title after winning in 2022 when based in Hamilton. The Sea Bears and the Honey Badgers both secured their final spots after navigating through the playoffs.
“We fought through challenges and transformed the Brampton program. While the outcome isn’t what we desired, we have reasons to be proud,” East II reflected on the Honey Badgers’ journey.