Xavier Moon had been responsible for the last five points scored by the Winnipeg Sea Bears, bringing them within two points of clinching the franchise’s first CEBL championship. With 12,519 fans at the Canada Life Centre watching, the three-time MVP had the opportunity to take the game-winning shot himself during Target Score Time.
However, Moon decided to pass the ball to DJ Burns in the post, who quickly kicked it out to Simon Hildebrandt beyond the three-point line. Hildebrandt made the shot, securing the victory for the Sea Bears. Reflecting on the moment three days later, Hildebrandt described feeling a mix of emotions and needing time to process the reality of the win.
Hildebrandt’s journey to that championship-clinching moment began over three years earlier when he was selected as the first overall pick in the Canadian Elite Basketball League’s initial U Sports draft from the University of Manitoba. Since then, the 23-year-old Winnipeg native has achieved success in the CEBL, winning Developmental Player of the Year twice and later playing college basketball in the NCAA for two years at High Point and Washington State.
Looking ahead, Hildebrandt is set to play professionally in Germany with BBC Bayreuth in the upcoming season, marking a significant milestone in his basketball career. The championship-winning shot may be seen as the pinnacle of his journey so far.
In the CEBL, promoting Canadian talent, particularly from local and undiscovered backgrounds like Hildebrandt’s, is crucial for the league’s growth. With an increased allowance of five imports per roster, the emphasis on developing and showcasing talent through pathways like U Sports remains vital.
The league’s shift to ‘CEBL Signing Day’ instead of a traditional draft, where each team signs two players from Canada’s university and college systems, aligns with the goal of highlighting young Canadian talent. Hildebrandt emphasized the importance of recognizing the high level of competition in U Sports and the opportunities it provides for aspiring players to transition to professional basketball through the CEBL.
Hildebrandt’s success story could potentially lead to opportunities with the national team in the future, although he has yet to compete at the senior level. Speculation from analysts suggests that his skills and dedication make him a strong candidate for representing Canada on the international stage.
Despite facing challenges and limited playing time in previous CEBL seasons, Hildebrandt’s perseverance and team-oriented mindset earned him a pivotal role in the Sea Bears’ championship run this season. His contributions, including career highs in various statistical categories, underscore his growth and impact on the team.
In Winnipeg, nurturing local talent has been a tradition for the Sea Bears, with hometown heroes like Chad Posthumus leaving a lasting legacy. Posthumus’ tragic passing further solidified his influence on the team, with his memory honored and cherished by the organization and fans.
Sea Bears coach and team owner praised Hildebrandt’s performance in the Finals, drawing parallels to the team’s resilient spirit and determination. The victory not only symbolized individual success but also exemplified the essence of the Sea Bears and the CEBL as a whole – a league that celebrates homegrown talent and showcases the grit and passion of its players.
