Photostory: Egert returns as Golden Bears prime for postseason run

The Golden Bears finished their home stand with a 1-1 weekend split against the Lethbridge Pronghorns, dominant in a Friday night victory before dropping a heartbreaker on Saturday. Despite missing out on the sweep, the Bears have plenty of reasons for optimism as they head into the playoffs this weekend.

Ethan Egert, the 6’7” forward, made his return from injury for the first game of this semester. He contributed nine points, three assists, three steals, and three rebounds off the bench. Since Egert is one of the most experienced players on the roster, having played for the team from 2020 to the present, he provides a vast amount of veteran leadership that the Bears will need during this playoff run.

Second-year player Kyle Varner is rounding into form at the right time of the year. He recorded a season-high in field goals made against the Pronghorns and ended the regular season as the team’s only 40 per cent three-point shooter. Having him firing with confidence from the three-point line will be a crucial factor for the offense as they enter the postseason.

Another reason for confidence is the coaching of Geoff Pippus. In his first season as head coach, he has led the Golden Bears to the second seed in the conference. The team currently boasts one of the best defences in the West, holding opponents to a 41.6 per cent field goal percentage and ranking as the second-best offensive rebounding team. Anyone who has watched this team can attest that at least once per game, Pippus draws a play coming out of a timeout that leaves the audience stunned.

This Saturday, the Golden Bears will take on either the University of Saskatchewan or the University of Regina. Their opponent will be determined by a play-in game taking place on Friday. This may be the Bears’ last home game of the season, so fans should expect a significant turnout. Go Bears!

Feb. 6 GB Basketball

21 photos