Alice WalkerWhen McGill brought in Head Coach David DeAveiro to lead the men’s basketball team, it was hoped that he would recreate the consistent success that he found at the University of Ottawa. The combination of a new coach and an exciting young core contributed to a season that surpassed expectations for most Redmen basketball fans.
Led by sophomore point guard Olivier Bouchard and national development program graduate/freshman shooting guard Simon Bibeau, the Redmen were in the thick of the playoff race all season. Their 10-6 record was a two game improvement over last year’s. The loss of Matthew Thornhill looked like it would be a big hole in the lineup but Bibeau stepped in admirably, averaging 13.6 points per game and often taking over contests when his team needed him most. Bouchard, last year’s QUBL recruit of the year, led the team with an average of 14.1 points per game. He and Bibeau developed excellent chemistry as the season went along and dazzled supporters and opponents on numerous occasions. McGill once again qualified for the playoffs but fell for the second consecutive year to the Laval Rouge-et-Or. McGill’s Achilles heel showed in close games against league leaders Laval and Concordia, losing four games against the big two by five points or less.
The Redmen have to be excited about their prospects in 2011-2012, as the entire roster will return with the exception of fifth-year forward Michael White. Another year of experience for Bouchard, Bibeau, and the rest of the squad should only help. Expect the Redmen to challenge for the QUBL title next season.
Record: 10-6
MVP: Olivier Bouchard
Player to Watch: Simon Bibeau
