Algonquin men’s basketball team gear up for 2022-23 regular season

The Algonquin Wolves men’s basketball team is set to embark on its first full season in nearly two years after defeating the John Abbott Islanders Saturday afternoon at the Jack Doyle Recreation and Athletics Centre in the team’s first pre-season game.

The Wolves came out on top 85-75.

“I thought there was some good ball movement in the first half, some good defence in the first half,” said Trevor Costello, the 25-year veteran head coach for the Wolves.

“Second half wasn’t great. The first half was real good, and we had enough of a lead to sustain their (Islanders’) run in the second half,” Costello said.

With the last two seasons impacted by COVID-19, the Wolves will look to build on last year’s momentum coming off a 6-2 record, averaging 53.5 per cent from field goal range.

“It’s still a little early in the year,” said Wolves assistant coach Jim Langis.

“But, as coaches we want the best, to win each game as we go into it, make the playoffs, we want to win the division, we want to get to provincials, we want to get to nationals,” said Langis.

Going into the regular season, the Wolves have one goal in mind – growing and winning.

“Looking to just improve everyday, get in the playoffs and try to win the whole thing,” said Jonah Cantor, second-year Wolves forward.

First-year guard Imad Ruhamyandekwe echoed those sentiments

“Obviously, personal goals, just to be a leader out there. You know, I’ve been playing basketball my whole life,” said Ruhamyandekwe.

“I’m trying to take on a leadership role, but just like every other team, trying to win it all,” said Ruhamyandekwe.

The Wolves’ regular season tips off Oct. 28 at 8 p.m. at the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre.

For more information visit https://goalgonquinwolves.com/sports/mbkb/index.