UPEI Panthers set for championship glory
The UPEI Men’s and Women’s Basketball Panthers will play in the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) Basketball Championship this weekend at the Scotiabank Centre, 1800 Argyle Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia.
The UPEI Men’s Basketball Panthers worked tirelessly throughout the regular season to secure a second-place finish and a first-round championship bye, accomplishing the feat in their final regular season game with a dominant 20-point victory over the Cape Breton University Capers. Their efforts earned them a 12-8 record and a direct ticket to the semifinals on Saturday, March 1, where they will face either the sixth-seeded Saint Mary's Huskies or the third-seeded Capers at 8:30 pm.
The Panthers have been led by fifth-year veteran Kamari Scott, who finished in the top 10 in the conference in scoring with an average of 14.1 points per game. Third-year guard Kyree Thompson emerged as a crucial contributor in the latter half of the season, finishing eighth in the conference with 14.2 points per game. His resurgence, combined with the dominant defensive presence of Daniel Gonzalez Longarela (9.3 points, 10.1 rebounds), the veteran leadership of Sam Chisholm (10.1 points), and the growing confidence of rookie Hugo Bermejo (7.1 points, 3.4 assists), has the Panthers well-equipped to make a deep run. With a balanced attack and a determined squad, UPEI has all the tools needed to capture their first championship title since the 2002–2003 season.
CHAMPIONSHIP SCHEDULE
The UPEI Women’s Basketball Panthers face a tougher road to the championship, needing to win three games in three days to claim the title. Their journey begins on Friday, February 28, at 6:30 pm against the University of New Brunswick Reds, a team they defeated twice during the regular season. A victory would propel them into the Saturday, March 1 semifinals, where they would face the Acadia University Axewomen—one of their most familiar playoff rivals during head coach Matt Gamblin’s tenure. The two squads split their four meetings during the regular season, setting the stage for what promises to be another intense battle.
The Panthers’ success has been driven by a trio of veteran stars who powered them to an impressive 14-6 record. Leading the charge is Lauren Rainford, who averaged 18.6 points per game, ranking seventh in the nation. UPEI also boasts the sharpshooting prowess of Devon Lawlor, who drained 42 three-pointers at an efficient 39.3% clip—good for fifth in U SPORTS. Additionally, Grace Lancaster had a breakout season, posting a career-high 12.3 points per game. Her two-way impact will be crucial, as opponents will undoubtedly focus on containing Rainford’s offensive production.
CHAMPIONSHIP SCHEDULE
Get your championship tickets!
Be part of the action and support the UPEI Panthers on their championship journey! A limited number of fan section floor seats (75 per game) are available during championship weekend.
How to purchase:
- Call Panther Central at 902-566-0368.
- Visit Panther Central in person to buy your E-TICKET.
Ticket prices:
$12 per UPEI game (follow the same purchase process for each game). *If the women’s team advances to Saturday, March 1, the $12 ticket grants access to both UPEI games that day.
Panther fans are encouraged to help cheer on the UPEI Women’s and Men’s Basketball Panthers this weekend in Halifax! Fans are invited to gather pre- or post-games at the Orso Pub and Grill (located close to Scotiabank Centre at 1859 Brunswick Street). Wear your green and white, and ask about food and drink specials arranged for UPEI alumni and friends.
Panther cheer gear will be available at the alumni table in the concourse of the Scotiabank Centre before each game.
Go Panthers Go!
