An eruption of applause filled Canada Life Centre on Saturday night when Winnipeg resident Simon Hildebrandt made an unforgettable shot. Hildebrandt’s three-pointer secured the Winnipeg Sea Bears their first-ever Canadian Elite Basketball League championship. The victory was celebrated with confetti raining down and the iconic anthem “We Are the Champions” blasting through the speakers, as fans and players reveled in the 98-84 triumph.
Reflecting on the moment, Hildebrandt described it as a spontaneous experience where his mind went blank before the celebrations began. The 2026 season marked Winnipeg’s fourth year in the CEBL, with the team’s inaugural game in 2023 being clinched by the late Chad Posthumus, another Winnipeg native.
Acknowledging the significance of following in Posthumus’s footsteps, Hildebrandt emphasized the honor of hitting the game-winner. Head coach Mike Raimbault, who also leads the University of Winnipeg’s men’s basketball team, shared a touching moment with Posthumus’s parents during the postgame festivities, underscoring the deep connection to the team.
Sea Bears guard Xavier Moon, who scored 29 points in the championship game, was named the CEBL finals MVP. Moon’s stellar performance was crucial, especially after key players like Teddy Allen, Emmanuel Akot, and Jeremiah Tilmon Jr. were unavailable due to various circumstances.
Despite facing challenges with a reduced lineup, Winnipeg overcame the odds by defeating the Saskatchewan Mamba and Vancouver Bandits in the playoffs. The championship series against the Brampton Honey Badgers was initially set as a best-of-three format but transitioned to a single-game showdown due to court conditions.
The historic win not only marked the Sea Bears’ first playoff victory but also set a new attendance record with 12,519 fans cheering them on at Canada Life Centre. The accomplishment resonated deeply with the team and fans, showcasing the city’s unwavering support for basketball.
Looking ahead, Hildebrandt expressed hope that the championship victory would inspire aspiring basketball players in Winnipeg, highlighting the potential for local talent to shine on the national stage. The Sea Bears’ triumph symbolized a milestone for the city’s basketball community, embodying the spirit of perseverance and achievement.
