Abbotsford – The UFV Cascades men’s basketball team played their first exhibition game of the season last Sunday, and while the squad may not have begun another potential 16 game winning streak (instead falling 81-70 to the Detroit Titans), they did display one of the most promising recruiting classes in recent memory. Coach Adam Friesen has been busy since his team’s exit from the Canada West Final Four in March, signing some veteran muscle to what was already a robust squad.
The Cascades have also benefitted from the return of fifth-year senior Jasper Moedt, whose significant leadership on the court will be indispensable to his teammates. The Cascades are returning Moedt and four others this season, as well as adding the following recruits:
Nav Bains (UNBC transfer) is a 6-5 forward from Surrey, BC who has joined the Cascades roster after red-shirting with the team last season. Bains is a force inside who finishes well and never lacks energy. “Nav is a very hard worker, whose toughness, presence in the paint and continued improvement will make for a productive year,” said Friesen.
Vijay Dhillon (UVic transfer) is a 6-0 guard from Richmond, BC who also red-shirted with the Cascades last season. Dhillon is entering his third year of eligibility, and is a reliable presence at all three guard positions. “Vijay is good player who will be asked upon to contribute in all areas for us this season. He provides a stability and depth that we’ve historically lacked, as well as solid basketball sense,” said Friesen.
Dominique Brooks is a 6-0 point guard from Seattle, Washington who is entering his fourth year of eligibility after transferring from the University of Texas of the Permian Basin. “Dominique is a talented player who continues to want to improve. His responsibility as point guard is to elevate our game this season, and I have full faith that he’ll find ways to make us better,” said Friesen.
Nate Brown is a 6-5 forward from Fresno, California who is entering his third year of eligibility. Brown has perhaps the quickest first step on the team despite his size, yet combines his speed with the wiles of a true veteran. “Nate is a good player who works hard, has a lot of skills and is a good teammate. He’s extremely difficult to play against, and his presence down low is going to cause all sorts of problems for our opponents this season” said Friesen.
Mackenzie Thompson is a 6-4 guard from Abbotsford, BC who comes to the Cascades after two seasons at Columbia Bible College. Thompson provides stability at both ends of the court, and adds size for the team on the perimeter. “Mackenzie fits in well with our team due to his work ethic and character,” said Friesen. “He contributes to every play and is a great teammate.”
The next chance to see the Cascades in action will be on Friday, October 3 when UFV hosts an exhibition contest against the Kwantlen Eagles at the Envision Athletic Centre.
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