An eruption of cheers filled the Canada Life Centre on Saturday night as Simon Hildebrandt from Winnipeg made a historic three-point shot. His winning shot secured the first-ever Canadian Elite Basketball League championship for the Winnipeg Sea Bears. As confetti filled the air and “We Are the Champions” by Queen played, fans and players rejoiced in the 98-84 victory.
Hildebrandt, reflecting on the moment, described it as unexpected and surreal. The 2026 season marked Winnipeg’s fourth CEBL campaign, with the team’s inaugural game in 2023 seeing the late Chad Posthumus, also a Winnipeg native, score the game-winning basket.
Acknowledging Posthumus’s legacy, Hildebrandt expressed gratitude for being able to contribute to the team’s championship run. Head coach Mike Raimbault, who also coaches the University of Winnipeg’s men’s basketball team, shared a touching moment with Posthumus’s parents during the postgame celebrations.
Xavier Moon, a guard for the Sea Bears, was pivotal in the championship game, scoring a game-high 29 points and earning the title of CEBL’s finals MVP. Despite facing challenges due to injuries and departures of key players, the Sea Bears defeated their opponents to claim the title.
Notably, the Sea Bears set a new attendance record with 12,519 fans at the Canada Life Centre, surpassing the previous league record. The victory not only celebrated the team’s success but also inspired young basketball players in Winnipeg to pursue their dreams on a national stage.
Overall, the Sea Bears’ triumph in front of their home crowd marked a significant milestone in the team’s history, showcasing their resilience and determination in the face of adversity.