Huskies prep for Canada West Final Four

The Huskies men’s basketball team is in a time of significant transition as the Canada West Final Four is set for later this month in Edmonton. The University of Saskatchewan placed head coach Barry Rawlyk on administrative leave prior to the start of the 2022 Canada West playoffs. (March 4 & 5) The university has since accepted Rawlyk’s resignation. He had been the head coach since 2012, and first joined the program in 2007-08.

Lead assistant coach Chad Jacobson now takes over the head coaching role, with the Final Four set to start March 18^th in Edmonton. The Huskies, who were ranked fourth in the country when the playoffs began, face the top seeded Golden Bears on opening night. When talking about the recent change, Jacobson said “In game duties are different. From a preparation standpoint, it remains the same. Our guys have worked hard for the opportunity to go out and compete for a Canada West championship.”

4^th year guard Chan De Ciman, who also played for Barry Rawlyk with the Saskatchewan Rattlers of the CEBL, was asked about the late season change. “The team spirit is really high. It’s made us closer as a team.” De Ciman says it’s up to the Huskies to dictate play in the opening game. “I think we know what we have to do. It’s more so about us, then them.”

The Golden Bears, who finished with a 16 and 0 regular season record, did not face the Huskies in regular season play in the 2021-22 season. Alberta was led by 5^th year guard Tyus Jefferson from Riverton, Utah and 3^rd year guard Geoffrey James from Edmonton. Both players averaged over 14 points per game in the regular season. The Huskies, who defeated (14) Brandon 101-76 and (5) UBC 88-87 in the first round of the playoffs, know what it will take to be successful. “UBC was a physical team. We just have to get creative, mix up coverages, and speed up the game a bit.” Jacobson said.