By Dan Marshall

VIU Men’s Basketball looking to bring gold back from PEI

Mar 14, 2017 | 11:37 AM

NANAIMO — The VIU Mariners men’s basketball team couldn’t be traveling any further in their quest for a national title.

They’ll be at Holland College in PEI this week going after a gold medal in the CCAA Nationals.

VIU sports information director Brent Dunlop said the team was expected to arrive Tuesday, but bad weather delayed their long journey.

“It could be an even longer one with delays with all the chaos with weather back there. I’m just wishing them well and hope they have a safe trip,” Dunlop said.   

The Mariners won a third straight provincial title earlier this month after a stellar regular season with only two losses.

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VIU’s last national medal was a silver in 2015 and the last gold at the event was in 2013.

Coach Matt Kuzminski won that title in his first year at the university and in his five years running the program the Mariners have three first place finishes and two second place PACWEST seasons.

In the playoffs his teams have won three gold medals and two silvers at provincials.

Dunlop said Kuzminski has done a great job leading the program.

“He’s a real anchor. He’s so composed in tough situations and he always seems to have the answer.  We’re thrilled to have him,” Dunlop said. 

The Mariners and the hosts are joined by the Sheridan Bruins, Nomades de Montmorency, SAIT Trojans, George Brown Huskies, Lethbridge Kodiaks and Mount Allison Mounties.

Wednesday is the awards banquet with the Player of the Year and the Coach of the Year to be announced. Games start Thursday.

VIU draws George Brown at 9 a.m. our time on March 16 to kick-off the tournament.

Adjusting to a four hour time difference will be a challenge for the third ranked Mariners, especially during the first game.

The CCAA Nationals will continue through March 18 with the schedule and results available at www.ccaa.ca.