2007-2008

Watch it live: http://www.webtele.tv/champlaincollege/ 

Royals advance to Nationals' semi-final.

Thursday, March 13, 2008

St. Lamberts, QC - We had a shoot around Wednesday morning which got us used to the gym, it has changed since we last visited in October. The stands were now on both sides and behind the bench and there was a huge area where a band will be playing.  Wednesday night was the All-Canadian award ceremony and it concluded with Billy McNutt, winning National Player of the Year in front of his family who came to watach the tournament from Oxford, Nova Scotia. 

 « J n' J - Jobair and Johnny say "Two more".

Usually after a big game this important, I have would been much more excited, however because of our teams potential,  a first round win was only stepping stone on what could be an unbeaten season. (Knock on wood)

Donald and Johnny look to order the "McNutt" Combo. »
Photo: James Anderson

My time back of the hotel was filled with "James check if this is legal".  Several of our teammates are battling either the flu or a sore throat.  For Jobair, the only remedy that worked was playing time and he said he was feeling much better after the game.   We headed out to our hometown favorite restuarant  Boston Pizza for a team meal.  One problem that we are having trouble with was  getting around the city. The street names are in French! Thankfully we have our French native, Dahman Boudraa. He was responsible for getting all the directions and leading the convoy.  Unfortunately his driving crosses up the followers like Bol's 'Silky Johnson' cross over and hesitation. After getting a full tour of the city of Champlain,  we magically ended up at the school just in time for the opening ceremonies. 

We stuck around after the ceremonies to watch the amped hometown crowd Champlain play the Sheridan Bruins.  The crowd was loud from the tip off and the game was a battle with the uptempo style of Champlain and the battleground style of Sheridan. 

« Champlain's crowd bring their baskets
Photo: James Anderson  

The game went down to the wire with Champlain making a late run to bring it within 3 with a minute to go.  Unfortunately for the home crowd the Bruins pulled through and advanced to play the Mount St. Vincent Mystics.

James 'Jimmy Manning' Anderson singing off.

Facts and Stats by David Munro (Royals Sports Media Correspondent)
Douglas Sinks Lakeland
CCAA Player of the Year Billy McNutt Dominates
Game Results: Douglas 105 Lakeland 60

The #1 seeded Royals took on the 8th seeded Lakeland College Rustlers, who arrived at the CCAA Nationals by receiving one of the two National wildcard berths. The Royals jumped out early and took a 25-13 lead after one quarter, highlighted by an alley-oop dunk to CCAA Player of the Year Billy McNutt to end the first quarter. The Royals extended the lead to nearly 20 points midway through the second quarter but the relentless Rustlers from Lakeland cut the lead to 44-34 at the halftime break.

Douglas opened the second half with a thunderous dunk from Andrew Sturgeon and within a couple of minutes seemed to take the life out of the Alberta wildcard entry. Douglas was able to make use of their strong bench play (each player played at least 10 minutes) and this full court pressure wore down Lakeland. The Royals outscored them 30-14 in the third quarter to lead 74-48. Douglas cruised to a 105-62 victory.

It was a total team effort for the Royals, whose defensive pressure created many fast break layups and transition baskets. Player of the Game was Billy McNutt who dominated on both ends of the floor with 24 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists, 5 steals and 4 blocks in just 22 minutes. Bol Kong was high scorer with 28 points including two highlight reel jams. Andrew Sturgeon scored 12 points and grabbed 7 rebounds, despite being double teamed most of the night. And the Royals received strong play off the bench from their entire roster. Johnny Forzani went 5-for-5 from the floor and finished with 10 points, 3 steals and 2 assists. Aneetan Braich was 5-for-6 from the floor, including 2 three-pointers and finished with 12 points and 3 assists. On the game the Royals shot 59.7% (43-for-72) from the floor and outrebounded the Rustlers 40-24 on the evening.

Next up for the Royals is the Quebec Champion, Montmorency College at 6:30pm on Friday.

Day 1: Royals ready to 'hawk' gold.
Royals arrive in Hochelaga (Montreal). 

March 12, 2008

New Westminster, BC - After the success of last year's "Basketball Diaries" by Geoff Lenahan, it seems only fitting that we follow up on the men's basketball team quest for Douglas College's first National Championship. The sequel; "The Book of James" will provide the Royals fans at home an inside perspective on the second attempt to capture the elusive title. Enjoy!

« Welcome to Montreal
Stock Photo.

At 9:10am Tuesday morning (March 11th), the Douglas College Men's basketball team boarded West Jet flight 506 bound for the CCAA National Championships in Montreal, Quebec. When we boarded the plane, we heard from Florian 'little westjeter' Joseph that his brother's team (UBC-O) would be on the same flight as us, following their flight from Kelowna.  Luckily for UBC-O, the incredible good looks and humor of Douglas's team came through and enough of our differences were put aside to avoid a scene on the plane.

The flight to Montreal lasted approximately 5 hours. When we arrived, we were greeted by our excited Hostess from Champlain College. After gathering our bags and equipment we experienced a traditional "Montreal" style rush hour gridlock, as we inched through traffic, the hour long ride to our hotel gave us time to reflect and get submerged in the "Quebecois" culture. 

After getting our room assignments and dropping off our luggage, the whole team met in one of the coaches' room to get the plan for the rest of the night. The plan was simple, get some food, be in your room by midnight, and get prepared to win us some National's. 

For the eight returning Royal players, Nationals has been on our mind since this time last year and while last years team was good, this years team is better! With the addition of nine more skilled players, two of which were at last year's National Championships both playing for other teams, the Royals have more depth and experience to call on. Everything being said, we are confident that this year we will "getter-done!" 
The night was topped off by Aneetan "buck nasty" Braich shaving a mohawk on Jobair "so called beautiful" Satari.  This brought the team mohawk count up to three (Myself, Florian, Jobair) and I have a feeling a few more will be added to the list by the end of the trip.

Round one: Douglas (1) vs. Lakehead (8) @ 13:00est (10:00am our time!)
Watch all o fthe action live: http://www.webtele.tv/champlaincollege/ 







Billy McNutt Named BCCAA Player of the Year

Back to Back
Douglas Men's Basketball program repeat as BC Champions - Douglas 89 UBCO 76

March 1, 2008

Prince George, BC - After months of preparation, sweat, and hard work, the Douglas College Royals can add another accomplishment to this season's resume; back to back BCCAA Champions. The Saturday night match-up for bragging rights and a guaranteed bid into the CCAA National Championship Tournament in St. Lamberts, Quebec could not have been scripted any better.
The top two college teams in the province would vie for the championship trophy and place their seasons on the line. The first half of the game was closely contested with ten lead changes  that excited the fans to cheer and roar at every play. The momentum shifted several times between the two teams with Douglas' Bol Kong sparking the Royals to a 8-0 run half way through the second quarter on a steal leading to a breakaway dunk. He then hit back to back three pointers to push the Royals ahead. But before the end of the half, the Lakers put together a run of their own, hitting some timely 3 pointers and making some defensive stops trimming the Royals lead to 6 points heading into the half time break.
But, like time and time before,  the Royals have shown that games are always 40min long and they never end at half. Clutch performances by tournament MVP Billy McNutt (28  points, 15 rebounds, 4 assist, 2 steals) and starting point guard, Tyler Lutton (10 points, 3 rebounds, 5 asists)  kept the Laker advances at bay in the second half while senior and first Team All-Star, Andrew Sturgeon continued to dominated the inside boards, finishing with 13 rebounds.  Also contributing for the Royals was Douglas' Bol Kong who also was named to the BCCAA First Team All-Star; he finsihed 17 points, 7 rebounds,  4 assists, and 3 steals);  Graeme McCallum combined for 18 points, 4 rebounds and 5 steals.

The Royals will advance to the CCAA National Championships on March 13-15 in St. Lambert, Quebec hosted by Champlain College.


One Step Closer
Royals de-claw Bearcats in Semi's: Douglas 106 - CBC 76

Friday, February 29, 2008

Prince George, BC - The Douglas College Royals began their quest for a second straight BCCAA Provincials Championship on Friday against Columbia Bible College Bearcats. Amidst a bus load of Royals fans and supporters who endured the nine hour bus ride from the New Westminster to Prince George (PG); the Royals appeared tight and a bit over anxious in the opening minutes. Missing easy shots and having uncharacteristic turnovers, the Royals quickly found themselves in unfamiliar territory.

At the eight minute mark of the second quarter, the overmatched Bearcats out hustled and outworked their way to lead the contest 32-30. However, they would never be in complete control of the game and surrendered the lead on as the Royals went on a 15-0 run to end the half.  With stalwartly inside defensive, BCCAA Players of the Year, Billy McNutt, turned away three Bearcats attempts during the run and finished with 7 blocks for the game. Jobair Satari canned a 3 pointer with 30 seconds left in the half to cap the run that broke the Bearcats back.

Bol Kong scores over CBC defenders.
Photo: Sean Velasco

From there the story is simple...Douglas was too good and too deep. The Royals went into the second half, confident and ready to hit their stride. An alley-oop dunk from Graeme McCallum to Andrew Sturgeon to start the second half was a taste of things to come for the bearcats. The increasing defensive pressure created easy opportunities that the Royals converted into points, slowly increasing their lead to 30 points by the fourth quarter. Major contributions from the DC bench (23 pts) and a +22 rebounding edge where the key factors in the win tonight for the Royals along with a stellar performances from Player of the Game, Billy McNutt. McNutt finished with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 blocks.  It was a big night for Graeme McCallum has he lead all Royals with 29 points, 6 rebounds, 4 steals,  and 8 assists.

In a rematch of the last year's Provincial's Championships, the Royals will face the Okanagan Lakers in the Gold medal game at 8:30pm tonight.


Senior's Night

Royals cap a perfect season on Senior's night.

Double Think
Andrew Sturgeon at the twilight of his college career.

February 12, 2008

New Westminster, BC - Standing at the final edge of an illustrious college career, Andrew Sturgeon is ready to cross the road and embrace a promising future. The story of how he became one of the most imposing forces in college basketball, is a storyline that makes you stop and double think everything you thought you knew about him.

Andrew Sturgeon
Photo: Royals Athletics

Growing up in the small pulp mill town of Port Alberni, Andrew was born the only male in a house filled with women.
"I have one older sister and three younger ones; add my mom into the mix and it can get pretty crazy as they only guy in the house," He laughs.
 "I have always been close to my family and especially my sisters. I guess I just assumed the "protector" role naturally. I watch out for them."

 Over the past two years as a member of the Douglas College Royals men's basketball program, Andrew has been the "protector" of the team's defense and the player that opponents have to 'watch out for'. With a relentless dedication and a determined work ethic, Sturgeon has garnered some of the most prestigious awards in college sports. In 2007, he was named the Sport BC Male Athlete of Year, BCCAA Male Athlete of the Year, and the CCAA All-Canadian just to mention a few.

On Monday, February 11, Andrew added another award to his mantle as he shook hands with British Columbia Premier, Gordon Campbell and accepted the 2008 Premier's Award as the Top Male College Athlete.  The gala event took place at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown Vancouver and included some of the who's who of the Vancouver's social ladder. However, despite the plethora of awards and accolades that he has received over the past two years, Andrew remains humble about his achievements and assured about his roots.

"I never knew that I would be even considered for such an award." said Andrew.
"I was surprised when I heard that I had won. I don't spend much time thinking about individual achievements"

Growing up, Andrew he said he always knew he was athletic, but never understood how good he really was. In grade 11, Andrew stood a mere 5'7, a stature that would not solicit to a future of playing basketball. However, he credits his high school coach, Brian Laviolette at Alberni District Secondary School as someone who opened his eyes to his potential.

"He insisted that I try out for the U16 Island regional team. Coming from ADSS and competing against some of these big name players from the bigger schools on the island, I didn't think I would have a chance of making it."

Everyday, Mr. Laviolette drove Andrew from Port Alberni to Nanaimo to give him the opportunity to try out for the team. At the end of the grueling try outs, Andrew did not only make the team, he was one of their leaders. 

But when asked who has been the biggest influence in his life, he gives credit to his old high school coach, but for the record, it is his mom, Catherine Sturgeon, he says without a hesitation.
"She was always there to provide me with support, confidence and discipline." says Andrew.
"It was tough love. I remember back in high school, I forgot to finish an assignment; and I remember her pulling me from the game. Her message was clear homework before basketball."

It is a message that still rings true for Andrew as he aspires to graduate with his Sport Science diploma from Douglas College. As he looks back at choices he has made in his life, he knows his mother influenced his best decision.   
"The best decision I made in life was to continue my education."

Unlike his peers who had boasted of high grades and graduated with honors; Andrew was probably the least likely to go to college. However, several years later, he stands of one of the few who will brandish a college education.

 "When I go back to 'P.A.', I see some of the people I went to high school with working at the local stores and supermarkets; and now look at me. I?m working towards a college diploma."

In addition to pursuing the completion of his college education, Andrew and his teammates will continue on their pursuit of National Championship, something that eluded them last year in Nova Scotia. However, on Saturday, February 16th, along with his teammates James Anderson and Shane Heuring, they will play their final home game at the New Westminster campus. The 'Senior Night' festivities will begin at 6:00pm with the women's game and will include a live band of Douglas College music students and plenty of prize giveaways for fans. Pick up your free ticket to the event, visit room 1303 (The Den).

Royals Continue To Dominate Conference Opponents
February 8,2008

New Westminster, BC - Rookie Sensation Bol Kong led the onslaught as the top ranked Royals proved to be too much for the Capilano Blues Friday night in North Vancouver. BK [Bol Kong] racked up 25 points, seven steals, and five assists on the night.  Billy McNutt joined the festivities contributing 22 points and 12 rebounds.  All Canadian, Andrew Sturgeon helped fill the stat sheet with 22 points and seven rebounds as the Royals (14-0) continued to build momentum for the playoffs with a decisive 108-65 win over the Blues.  
     "We were very motivated from the beginning with only one league game this weekend, " said Douglas Head Coach, Jamie Oei, whose team combined for seven dunks on the night. 
    "We knew that Cap has very good scorers in Dan Evans and Nick Toews and we challenged our defense to hold them down."

Cap is a hard working team but they could not match up inside the paint as Sturgeon and McNutt had their way down low with the smaller Blues as has been the case on so many nights this season. 

The Royals ran their current win streak to eleven with an exhibition win on Saturday afternoon in Bellingham over NWIC 85-59

Royals Fight Through Long Road Trip To Stay Perfect In Conference Play

The long, tough, frozen road to the north lived up to its billing this past weekend as the top ranked Royals traveled to the interior for a pair of road games which have proved to be stumbling blocks for many teams this season.

The trip opened up Friday night vs. the UNBC Timberwolves in Prince George before a large and hostile crowd. Douglas traded baskets early on and a first half foul deficit of 17-4 bolstered the Timberwolves to a 33-31 lead at half time. Douglas shook off their bus legs and turned up the defensive pressure in the fourth quarter resulting in UNBC turnovers which the Royals quickly converted into layups and dunks. The final tally was an 85-63 win behind 22 points from Bol Kong. Johnny Forzani played his best game of the year bringing energy off the bench and chipping in18 as the Royals once again showed their depth to be a key factor in their success. UNBC was led by Sean Corcoran with 14.

The Royals continued their trip Saturday travelling to Kelowna for a first place showdown with the UBCO Lakers. DC led wire to wire in this one jumping out to a 49-36 half time lead despite shooting 4-15 from beyond the arc. Early in the third quarter the Royals were slowed by foul trouble and once again got a lift off the bench from freshman Johnny Forzani who had 13 points and 4 rebounds in 14 minutes of play. Foul plagued Billy Mcnutt lead Douglas with 22 points and fellow big gun Andrew Sturgeon added 21. Graeme McCallum had 15 points and did a great job shutting down UBCO?s leading scorer Marco Dolchetti holding him to 3-11 shooting on the night. Bol Kong, also in foul trouble, chipped in 10. David Joseph led the Lakers with 26 points.

The length and difficulty of this road test bodes well for the Royals who now stand 3 games away from a never before accomplished perfect league record. Of course, after the Super Bowl this past weekend, the Royals are more aware than ever how a top team needs to be playing at their best every night. The road to perfection continues Friday at Capilano College at 8 pm.

January 30, 2008

New Westminster, BC - The number one team in the country continued their conference dominance with a convincing 89-63 win over the Camosun Chargers on Friday night at home. The Royals led by freshman sensation Bol Kong; who had 23 points and 7 assists, as they jumped out to an early first quarter lead 32-16.

Camosun clawed back in the second frame out scoring the Royals 18-11. Chargers? all-star candidate, Jeff Spoor gave the Royals' guards some trouble with his dribble penetration and passing; Spoor finished with 16 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists. Kamal Vaid was the only other Charger to reach double figures as he finished 14 points. The Royals dominated every statistical category including out rebounding Camosun 46-32. Typical of this season, the big four-carried Douglas, as Billy McNutt tossed in 12 points and added 10 rebounds, Graeme McCallum had 11 points and 7 rebounds and Andrew Sturgeon had 10 points after being in foul trouble most of the night.

On Saturday, the Royals had a quick turn around as they hosted a matinee match up against the 12^th ranked Malaspina Mariners. The earlier than normal tip didn't appear to rattle the Royals as they led from wire to wire and turned a 14 point half time lead into a 29 point lead after three quarters. The Royals poured in 71 second half points as they shot a sensational 56% from the floor and recorded a 106-75 victory while improving their conference record to 11-0. Billy McNutt led the Royals with 26 points and 6 rebounds as all five Royal starters were in double figures. Other top scorers for the Royals were Bol Kong and Andrew Sturgeon who both netted 15 points a piece while Graeme McCallum chipped in 12 points.

Tyler Lutton had his best game in a Royals uniform scoring 13 points, grabbing 6 rebounds and dropping 3 dimes (steals). Shane Huering was very productive off the bench scoring 9 points in 10 minutes of play, while James Anderson had a season high 8 points and 4 rebounds. Jacob Thom had a spectacular game for Malaspina scoring 33 points and adding 7 rebounds.

In what is expected to be the toughest road trip of the season, the Royals head up north to face the University of Northern BC in Prince George on Friday and then CCAA 5^th ranked UBC-Okanagan in Kelowna on Saturday.

For more information, please visit the Men's Basketball team page.
 

The McNutt Combo Please.
Billy blows up against the Blues

November 26, 2007

New Westminster, BC - There should be a new item on the menu at your local McDonald's, and it should be the McNutt combo.

Loaded with a ton of points (24), a serving of rebounds (6) and a side of assists (5), the new McNutt combo was served to the Capilano Blues this past weekend at the New Westminster campus. 

For the Royals faithful, we knew it was only a matter of time before this legitimate baller would erupt and show us what 'Scotia' is all about. 
    
    "Firstly, he [Billy] is a great kid, " said Head Coach, Jamie Oei. 
    "He's probably one of our best all around players and creates match up problems for our opponents,"

William McNutt
Photo: Jerald Waliser

The 6'8 senior from Oxford, Nova Scota has settled nicely into the west coast lifestyle and more importantly into the Royals' high octane game. Unlike in previous years where he was a one man wrecking crew and depended on nightly to score, rebound and anchor the defense; McNutt now has a supporting cast and does not need to take the lead everytime.

    "He has been very receptive to his role here on our team and appears to enjoy not being the focal point and sharing the lime light," continued Oei.
    "One of his best attributes is his timing and his ability to get in front of players and block shots," 

In last year's National Championships in Nova Scotia, the quiet and unassuming McNutt caught the Royals by surprise as he recorded a game high 8 blocks. His impact on the Championships was staggering as he led the tournament in points, rebounds and blocks! 

     "I'm sure he is anxious to get home for the holidays. However, having some family out here has definitely eased the pain of home sickness,"

The Royals finish the first half of the season as the only undefeated team in the country. Their next game is Saturday, December 8th where they travel to face Seattle University in Seattle, WA. 


Tsunami 'Bol'

Bol Kong and the Royals flush the Island.

November 9, 2007

Victoria, BC - The national weather authorities were caught off guard when Tsunami 'Bol' hit land this weekend on Vancouver Island. With a performance that could have been tracked by local meteorologist, Bol Kong splashed the Camosun Chargers with 30 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assist in Friday night's 102-66 rout. 

Bol Kong
Photo: Jerald Walliser

The Royals arrived in the provincial capital to face the #14th ranked team in the country the Camosun Chargers. From the tip, it was appearent the Royals wanted to make a statement in their first full weekend of league games. Starting it off for the Royals was freshman sensation, Bol Kong.  More versatile than a Black and Decker 5-in-1 power tool, the multi-talented Kong has the ability to play five positions on the floor.
However for this game, the Royals coaching staff choose the point guard mode and saw the benefits of starting the 6'7" juggernaut at the one spot. Bol didn't disappoint!
 
    "Bol [Kong] controlled the game from the start with his scoring, rebounding and unselfish plays," said Head Coach, Jamie Oei.

In addition to Bol, the Royals guards made a significant contribution to the victory.
    
"It was a great game by our guards. Our starting point guard, Graeme [McCallum] was banged up, however we had solid contributions from Aneetan Braich and Jobair Satari," continued Oei.

With a stat line that would have had fantasy leaguers smiling from ear to ear, both Braich and Satari combined for 21 points while shooting 9 of 11 from the field. Satari also added 3 assist and 3 steals for a complete game performance. In addition to contributions from the bench, the 'Always ready' Andrew Sturgeon and the Billy McNutt powered their way to a collective 30 points and 9 rebounds. 

Royals Invade Mal-U-Nation
Sturgeon is still the biggest fish on the Island.

November 10, 2007

Nanaimo, BC - Like a home coming of sorts, Andrew Sturgeon of Port Alberni served notice that he is still the biggest fish on the Island.  With 23 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assist and 3 steals, Sturgeon's return to the Island was evident in the Royals 86-65 win over Malaspina. 
    "Sturgeon was a beast inside," commented, Head Coach, Jamie Oei.
In addition to Sturgeon, Graeme McCallum exploded, as he tallied 15 of his 19 points in the second half and chipped in on the hustle board with 4 rebounds and 5 assist.

    "Graeme carried the offense in the third quarter and Kong hit some pretty shots," said Oei.

Coach Oei contributes the win to the Royals quick start as they led 13-4 including a dunk by Bol [Kong] in the early minutes. The Royals controlled much of the game with their depth and experience as they led by as much as 25 points. Bol Kong added 14 points and 12 rebounds as McNutt anchored the defensive end with 3 blocks.

The Royals return home this weekend for their Home Opener against UNBC on Friday and Okanagan on Saturday. The women's game begin at 6:00p and the men play at 8:00p both nights.  


Like the Flu
Royals defense was hard to shake

October 15, 2007

This weekend the Men's Basketball team showed fans something that was not always apparent in the past...defense. Despite having a multitude of offensive weapons, it was not their scoring ability that had fans talking, it was their 'lock down' style of play. 

Royals' Guard Johnny Forzani
Photo: Jerald Walliser, Southpaw Photography

Like the flu, opponents had a hard time shaking the Royals no matter which remedy they tried. Whether it was man to man, zone press or a nauseating trap; they had opponents stuffed up worse than a bad head cold. 
After losing to Mount Royal in an exciting opening game by a score of 88-85, the Royals rebounded from their shooting woes and dominated the next two games.

On Saturday night against SAIT, the Royals defense machine was in full force as they defeated the Trojans by 52 points. With six players in double figures (Bol Kong 23, Tyler Lutton and Graeme McCullum 16, Andrew Sturgeon 15 and Ryan Hatch 12) the Royals won the game easily by a score of 108-56.

Against Red Deer on Sunday afternoon, they controlled much of the game solely from their defensive pressure. After leading by as little as three points at the end of the first quarter break, the Royals defense was speadheaded by their guards, Johnny Forzi and Donald Lindo created more turnovers than a Pilsbury® doughboy. By the half, the Royals had outscored Red Deer 31-17 to take a 52-35 lead. In third, the defense was deafening as they limited their opponent to just three field goals. The Royals went on to defeat Red Deer 82-58.

For scores and results from the 3rd Annual Royals Tournament, visit the Men's Basketball page.
 

Royals Basketball Tournament
Men's basketball team to host top teams in western Canada

Monday, October 8, 2007

New Westminster, BC - This upcoming weekend, the men's basketball team will host the top teams from across western Canada in the annual Royals Basketball Tournament.
After garnering some national attention with their defeat over Boise State University, the Royals will be anxious to test their skills against some of the elite teams in the country.
    "It provides us with a great opportunity to determine where 'WE' are at," said Assistant Coach, Dahman Boudraa
    "We would like to see how the pieces are fitting together,"

Since the NCAA weekend scrimmages, the Royals have played a handful of games against some of the local CIS (SFU, UBC and UCFV) programs. This weekend's games will be considered as the 'unofficial' launch to the season and despite the obvious pre-season national rankings, the games could prove to be much more. With Champlain College in St. Lambert, QC hosting the National Championships, this weekend's tournament could have implications on wildcard bids in late February!
    "This weekend 'is' important" said Boudraa
    "There are elite programs from both BC and Alberta,"

Some of the top programs attending this year's tournament are Camosun, Capilano, Langara, Malaspina, Mount Royal, Red Deer and SAIT.   
    "Several programs in the tournament are very well coached...every game will be a battle," said Bouraa.


Battle Royale
Royals defeat Alumni squad by 20.

September 29, 2007

New Westminster, BC - In the much anticipated men's game, the Royals defeated the 'old school dudes' by 20 points, 110-90. Despite being undersized and just a wee-bit out of shape, the Alumni gave the heavily favored Royals a run for their money. 

Coach Munro and his Alumni squad.
Photo: CSRW

Relying on some of the 'younger' players, the Alumni squad were trailing by a mere eight points in the final quarter and were inspired by the play of the Shawn Hartley. The 6'5 former stand out, showed some of the magic he had when he played for the Royals/Outlaws back in the late 80's. 

However, behind a pletora of talent, the Royals ignited and went on a 20-4 run late in the fourth to pull away for the victory. Some of the returning players for the Alumni were, Tim Whitehead, Sam Payne, Taylor Cherris-Wilding, Justin Adams, Sean Velasco, Alex Zabori, Hamed Nazzari and Geoff Lenahan.
    "It's just great to see some of the players that have now become friends give back," said Alumni Coach, David Munro
    "We have PHD candidates, entrepreneurs and politicians...it is really good to see how well they have done after basketball at Douglas,"

The Centre for Sport, Recreation and Wellness and the men's and women's basketball programs would like to thank Andrew Senjack and the Douglas College Alumni Association (DCAA) for their contribution to the Alumni event.
For more information on DCAA, visit their website: www.douglas.bc.ca/about/alumni  
 

Royals Buck Broncos
Fa'Bol'ous finish for the Royals

This weekend the Douglas College Men's Basketball team hosted their Annual "Take it to the Rack" Basketball event. The event showcases some of the top NCAA division 1 schools from south of the border.
In Saturday night's match up, the Royals took on the Bosie State Broncos were they made history as they defeated them by a score of 109-100.

Photo: Jerald Walliser, Southpaw Photography

Coming off a strong second half finish against powerhouse Marquette University, they jumped out to early lead as the were up 29-27 at the end of the first quarter.

Guard play was a big factor in the victory as Scarborough's Donald Lindo and Coquitlam's Graeme McCallum combined for 43 points including 11 threes! Lindo [Donald] was the x-factor as he went for a perfect 5 for 5 from behind the arc. McCallum added to the long distance assault as he connected for 6 threes of his own. Overall the Royals shot a blistering 75% from three point land.

View Photos

However, the story of the night was rookie sensation, Bol Kong. The 6'7" shooting guard from St. George's High School in Vancouver, showed fans why he was touted as the top prospect in the country. With a 28 point performance against Marquette University earlier that morning, Bol continued to impress scouts and spectators as he torched the Broncos for 33 points, 6 assist and 5 rebounds.
    "I feel confident that I can play at this level," said Bol.
    "Especially after my performance against a tough Marquette team,"

After game, Head Coach, Jamie Oei spoke about Bol.
    "He [Bol] provides us with so much," said Oei.
    "He is a difficult player to scout because he can beat you so many ways,"

With their big post players in foul trouble, the young phenom appeared comfortable carry the offensive load on his shoulders.
Also contributing for the Royals was All-Canadian, Andrew Strugeon who collected 14 rebounds in the win.

Next up for the Royals, University California Santa Barbara on Sunday.


Bol Kong.
Men's Basketball lands top Bluechip recruit. 

August 10, 2007

New Westminster - The Douglas College Men's Basketball Program is pleased to announce the commitment of blue-chip guard, Bol Kong from Vancouver, B.C. Recently graduated from St. George's High School, Kong is a 6'7 athletic guard who is able to contribute with his ability to score off the dribble and from 3-point range as well as being a playmaker on the floor. Heavily recruited in the United States by the likes of Washington, UNLV, Idaho, Memphis, Louisville, Hawaii, Utah and numerous other Division 1 teams, Bol has been unable to obtain his U.S. student Visa and approached Douglas Head Coach, Jamie Oei about playing a year at Douglas until he is ready to head south.

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    "We are extremely excited to have Bol at Douglas College next year," said Coach Oei, 
    "I think he will be one of the best players in Canada at any level. Many of the Division 1 coaches that have interest in Bol think he has NBA potential and we look forward to making him a better player."

Kong led St. George's to the 2006 B.C. AAA Final Four and was named to the tournament 1^st All-Star team. With season averages of 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, Kong played in the B.C. high school All-Star game as well as the All-Canada game in 2006.

    "I am excited to be playing at Douglas next year," said Kong, a man of few words.

Bol Kong will suit up for the first time with Douglas College on Labor Day weekend when the Royals host NCAA Division 1 teams Idaho, Marquette, Boise State, and Oklahoma. All games will take place at the Douglas College campus in New Westminster. Tickets are free for kids 16 and under with a pair of shoes or cleats to be donated to the Hoops4Hope program for under privileged children in Africa.

For more information on the Labor Day weekend games or the Hoops4Hope program please call (604) 527-5513.

NCAA Basketball Games Announced
Air Force, Boise State, Idaho, Marquette, Oklahoma and UC Santa Barbara.

Marquette will open up the weekend of basketball action with a game against Moult Athletic All-Star team Saturday, September 1 at 12 p.m. The second game of the day sees the home Douglas College Royals play the University of Idaho at 7 p.m.

On Sunday, September 2 Douglas College begins the day with a 10 a.m. game against Marquette. That game is followed by an afternoon game that pits the Air Force Academy against the Vancouver All-Star team who are coached by Douglas College assistant coach Michael Hamilton at 12 p.m. Later that evening the Douglas College Royals return to action with a game against Boise State at 8 p.m.

It is a quick turnaround for the Royals as they host Oklahoma on Monday, September 3 at 9 a.m. That game is followed at 11:30 a.m. with Victoria based Camosun College taking on Idaho.

Of the five NCAA schools, Marquette is the only school to have competed in last year's NCAA tournament. The Golden Eagles, who were an eight-seed, lost in the opening round to Michigan State 61-49. Marquette has made four NCAA tournament appearances in the past six years, including a 2003 run to the Final Four that was captained by Dwayne Wade. Marquette, who is led by head coach Tom Crean, finished last season 20th in the National rankings after posting a Big East regular season record of 10-6. Marquette could have one of the nation?s best back courts in 2007/08 with Big East all-stars Dominic James and Jerel McNeal returning for their junior years.

Saturday Sept. 1
12 p.m. Marquette vs. Moult Athletic
7 p.m. Idaho vs. Douglas

Sunday Sept. 2
10 a.m.  Marquette vs. Douglas
12 p.m. Air Force vs. Van City All-Stars
8 p.m. Boise State vs. Douglas

Monday Sept. 3
9 a.m. Oklahoma vs. Douglas
11:30 a.m. Idaho vs. Camosun

Sunday, September 9
Douglas vs. UC Santa Barbara - TBA

Last season over the Labour Day weekend, the Royals men's basketball team hosted Mississippi State, New Mexico State, and Arizona at Douglas College. The Royals also played Dartmouth on their pre-season trip to San Jose, Costa Rica. The Royals finished last season with a 34-5 record and a silver medal at the CCAA National tournament in Truro, Nova Scotia.

In addition to hosting the games, Douglas College Men's Basketball Coach Jamie Oei is very excited to be supporting the Hoops4Hope Organization. Hoops4Hope is a non-profit organization that accepts donations of team uniforms and athletic shoes(cross-trainers, running, basketball and soccer cleats) to be shipped to African countries for underprivileged youths. All kids 16 years and under will receive free entry to all Labour Day Weekend games with a donation to Hoops4Hope.

For more details on the Hoops4Hope program please visit www.hoopsafrica.org 

For ticket information to all Douglas College Men's Basketball home games please call (604) 527-5513

Joseph Receive Top Awards.
BC School Sports and Sport Institute winners announced.

June 29, 2007

New Westminster, BC - BC School Sports, in association with the Douglas College Sports Institute, is pleased to announce that lorian Joseph will be receiving Athletic Scholarships to Douglas College in September 2007.

Florian Joseph will be attending Douglas College from LV Rogers Secondary in Nelson, BC where he played both basketball and soccer.  On the basketball court, he was selected as a 2nd team all-star at the BC Provincial AA Championships where he led LV Rogers to an 8th place finish.  On the season he averaged 20 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists.  Joseph turned down offers from Thompson Rivers University and UBC-Okanagan to attend Douglas College and play for Coach Jamie Oei.  "Florian was one of the top point guards in the province this past season, and we are extremely excited to have him join our program at Douglas College."   Joseph plans to study Business Administration while at Douglas.   In his spare time Florian has worked with the annual Nelson music festival and has been a designated driver for various International Education youth groups at his high school.

New Westminster, BC - Douglas Men's Basketball coach Jamie Oei is very pleased to announce the commitment of ACAA 1^st team All-Star forward, Billy McNutt to the Royals Basketball team for the 2007-08 season. McNutt completed his 3^rd year of eligibility at Nova Scotia Agricultural College in 2006-07 where he led the Rams in scoring, rebounding, and blocked shots.

"Billy is an All-Canadian talent," commented Coach Oei. "He allows us to have so many options on the floor as he is able to play multiple positions."

McNutt almost single handedly beat last year's Royals in the first round of the National tournament in Truro, Nova Scotia. After missing a month of the regular season, McNutt led the eigth seeded and host NSAC Rams with 21 points, 23 rebounds and 8 blocked shots against the number one seeded Royals. Although the Royals escaped with a 58-53 win, McNutt showed the country how good he was. McNutt went on to lead the tournament in scoring (22 points per game) and rebounding (16 rebounds per game) and was a first team all-star.

After weighing some CIS options, McNutt contacted Coach Oei about the possibility of coming out west.

"I was shocked when Billy contacted me," said coach Oei. "He told me he had family out in B.C. and that he liked the way we ran our program. After coming out for a visit and playing with some of the guys we thought it could be a great situation for him."

With the return of core players Andrew Sturgeon, Chris Veale, and Graeme McCallum, and the addition of McNutt, the Royals look to improve on last season's Silver Medal at the National Tournament.

"I'm happy to be playing next to a great group of guys and hope to get another BCCAA Provincial banner and bring home a Nationals banner to Douglas," said McNutt on the phone as he prepares to arrive back in Vancouver in July to train with the team.

McNutt will transfer into the P.E. and Coaching degree program at Douglas College in the fall.

Men's Basketball
2^nd Annual Golf Classic Tournament
Friday July 27^th, 2007 - Greenacres Golf Course

You are invited to join fellow supporter of Douglas College Men's Basketball team for an exclusive afternoon of golf and dinner at Greenacres Golf Course.

This special Douglas College day raises funds to support Douglas College Men's Basketball team in scholarships, travel costs as well as needed equipments.
« Download Information Package

Registration and Tee Gift: 11:30AM - 1:30PM
Be greeted by members of Douglas College men's Basketball Team and receive your special tee gift.

An Afternoon of Golf: 1:30PM Start
Enter your team of four and join other friends and supporters of Douglas College Men's Basketball for a fun day of golf and friendly competition!

Cocktails, Dinner and silent Auction: 7:00PM
Enjoy a delicious banquet dinner with your teammates.

Thank you for your continuous support of Douglas College Men's Basketball Program and we are hoping you have a ROYAL DAY to remember!

BC Champions, Douglas College grab L.V. Rogers Florian Joseph.

New Westminster, B.C. - The Douglas College Men's Basketball Team is proud to announce the commitment of their first recruit for the 2007/08 team. L.V. Rogers point guard Florian Joseph has committed to playing for Douglas College and Douglas Head Coach Jamie Oei could not be happier.

"We really wanted to upgrade at the point guard position for next year," said Oei. "We believe Florian is a player that very few people have seen but we think he is a very solid point guard who sees the floor well and can help us right away."

Joseph played his high school ball at L.V. Rogers in Nelson, B.C. this past season and led the Bombers to their second straight Kootenay Championship where he was named MVP. The Bombers finished the 2007 AA Championship in Kamloops with an 8^th place finish and Joseph was Game MVP in 3 of their 4 games. Joseph was named to the AA Provincial 2^nd All-Star team.

« Royals' Recruit, Florian Joseph

"This is a great opportunity for me," said Joseph after committing to Douglas last week. "It will be different coming from a small town and a AA school, but nothing I can't get used to. I am really excited about playing for Douglas next season."

After a great year averaging over 20 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds per game, Joseph turned down offers from Thompson Rivers University and UBC-Okanagan and chose Douglas College.

"The toughest thing for Florian was whether or not to play with his brother," commented Coach Oei about Joseph's decision to attend Douglas College rather than play at UBC-Okanagan where his brother David plays. David was an All-Star at the BCCAA Provincial Tournament last season where the Lakers lost to Douglas College in the Championship game.

Joseph plans to get into the Business Management Program at Douglas College next fall.