By Micah Della Foresta – Staff Writer 

It was a weekend of heartbreak for the Gaiters’ basketball programs, as both the men and the women’s teams came up short in their respective RSEQ championship games. After two strong performances in their semi-final games, both teams were looking to bring the trophies back to Mitchell Gym for the first time in 21 years, and to stamp their ticket to the USPORTS National Championship. 

On March 4 at 7 p.m., in front of a full Mitchell Gym, the women’s team came out flat. #4 ranked UQAM found themselves on top 10-0 early in the first quarter, showing no signs of fear of the #1 team in the league. Kabunda’s absence – Bishop’s top rebounder – was noticeable on the paint. Although the Gaiters struggled to put the ball in the basket in the opening frame, strong defense in the next two quarters saw them back in business, holding the Citadins to only 17 combined points. But, it was not enough, and UQAM continued to control the glass on both ends, rallying 25 offensive rebounds, which led to 23 second-chance points, and 20 more total rebounds than the Gaiters. The women lost by a final score of 68-59. 

Tipping off at the same time, the men’s game was underway in downtown Montreal in front of a fired-up home crowd. Bishop’s seemed unfazed by the opposing noise, looking calm and controlled in the first quarter, scoring the ball efficiently and playing with pace, entering the second period with a five-point lead. UQAM then began to cause chaos, forcing turnovers left and right, dominating in the transition and outscoring Bishop’s 30-9 in the quarter. Coming out of the half, the Gaiters made the appropriate adjustments and began to compete, but were unable to dig themselves out of the deficit that amassed in the second frame. Ball control proved to be the difference, since 22 points were scored off turnovers by the Citadins, leading to them beating the Gaiters by 17 points. 

Despite the disappointment of the losses, both teams enter the off-season having achieved admirable levels of success. Despite the announcement of a new head coach just weeks before training camp, the transition was seamless. The women finished the season with a record of 24-4 and sustained themselves in the top ten throughout the entire year. The team’s overall success was further solidified and made apparent upon the announcement of the league-issued season awards. 

Senior Deborah Aboagye was named the defensive player of the year, a nod to her tenacious on-ball defense which caused issues for opposing primary ball-handlers and scorers all season long. Senior Jael Kabunda was named a Second Team All-Star, averaging 11.4 points and 10.5 rebounds on the year. Sophomore Victoria Gauna was named to the First Team, averaging 12.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, and nearly two steals a game. Senior Amaiquen Siciliano added more to an already stellar resume, receiving her third league MVP award along with her third time being named as a First Team All-Canadian. First-year head coach Dianna Ros was also awarded, being named the RSEQ coach of the year. Although their journey came to a close earlier than hoped and expected, the 2022-23 season was without a doubt a highlight in the program’s history.

The men also entered the year with a new head coach, Matt McLean, who was appointed to the position in May 2022. Inheriting a young team mostly composed of first- and second-year players, the expectations for success were not as high as they had been. But throughout the season the team made known their abilities and exceeded what most thought they were capable of. 

Three Gaiters were recognized for their individual success during the season. Étienne Gagnon received his fair share of accolades, as he was named a Second Team All-Star along with the Rookie of the Year award in the RSEQ. A strong debut season in which Gagnon averaged 14.2 points and a league-leading 13.1 rebounds per game, put him in contention to be named the most outstanding rookie in the country. The winner will be announced during the weekend of the national tournament. 

David Navarro was also named to the RSEQ All-Rookie Team. David was a consistent rotation player who proved to be a threat from beyond the arc and forced defenders to guard him well beyond the perimeter. Charles-André Robert was named a First Team All-Star, contributing 16.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3 assists. 

Dani Longarela was the lone graduate of the group. The forward from Madrid returned from an ACL injury the previous year and offered both intensity and leadership, making his presence felt throughout the season. His exuberant personality will be missed on and off the court. 

With some experience under their belt and the departure of only one senior, there is optimism and high hopes moving forward for the program. Acknowledging their untapped potential, the team plans to spare no time continuing to grow and build during the off-season.