Xavier Moon had been responsible for the Winnipeg Sea Bears’ previous five points, bringing them within two points of securing the franchise’s first CEBL championship title.
With the ball in hand during Target Score Time, Moon, a three-time MVP, could have easily opted to take the winning shot himself in front of the 12,519 fans at the Canada Life Centre. Instead, he passed the ball to DJ Burns in the post, who swiftly kicked it out to Simon Hildebrandt behind the three-point line.
Hildebrandt made the shot, securing the victory for the Sea Bears. Reflecting on the moment three days later, he described feeling a mix of emotions and needing time to process the reality of the win.
For Hildebrandt, the journey to that championship-winning shot began over three years ago when he was selected as the first overall pick in the U Sports draft by the Canadian Elite Basketball League, following his time at the University of Manitoba.
The Winnipeg native, 23, has since achieved success in the CEBL, winning Developmental Player of the Year twice and transitioning to a two-year NCAA career at High Point and Washington State. He is set to play professionally in Germany with BBC Bayreuth in the upcoming season.
This title-clinching shot marks a significant milestone in Hildebrandt’s career, with more potentially on the horizon as he continues to progress. His story exemplifies the type of talent the CEBL aims to cultivate, particularly emphasizing Canadian players like Hildebrandt who have untapped potential.
The CEBL has shifted its focus to developing pathways for young talent, replacing the draft with “CEBL Signing Day,” where teams sign two players from Canada’s university and college systems. Hildebrandt believes in the importance of showcasing and nurturing talent from U Sports, providing a crucial bridge to professional basketball.
Hildebrandt’s success could extend to the national team, where he has yet to compete at the senior level. Analysts have suggested that he would be a valuable addition to the team, showcasing his potential for further growth in the sport.
Despite facing challenges in his CEBL career, including limited playing time in previous seasons, Hildebrandt’s perseverance and team-oriented mindset have been instrumental in his recent achievements. His dedication and improvement have been evident throughout the season, culminating in standout performances during crucial playoff games.
As the Sea Bears celebrate their first CEBL championship win, Hildebrandt’s story reflects a commitment to nurturing local talent in Winnipeg, echoing the team’s tradition of showcasing homegrown players. The legacy of players like Chad Posthumus, whose impact on the team remains profound, continues to inspire future generations of Sea Bears players.
Hildebrandt’s performance in the championship game not only earned him recognition but also exemplified the team’s values of resilience, determination, and unity. His heroics on the court symbolize what the Sea Bears and the CEBL stand for – a platform for emerging talent and a testament to the league’s commitment to fostering Canadian basketball excellence.