The First Basketball team traveled to Montreal to participate in the CAIS National Senior Boys Basketball Tournament hosted by Selwyn House and Lower Canada College. With only five practices under their belt, the tournament was a true season 'kick off' and an opportunity to see the strengths of the squad along with areas to improve.

Fortunately, this year's Saints team will feature a high octane, fast-paced transition offense with plenty of scoring, and the offense was on full display during the team's first three round robin games. Captains David Osa-Obeide and Jacari Marshall did a great job pushing the pace and attacking the rim, while captain Nick Shackell and sharpshooter Ben Fitzpatrick did damage from the perimeter. Spencer Haslett and Michael O'Brien patrolled the paint and protected the rim, while Gabe Cabelli and Duncan McDonell were active on defense and their steals led to fast break chances.

In pool play, the Saints were 3-0 and qualified for the 'gold' playoffs:

Game #1 - SAC 81, Rothesay Netherwood School 27
Game #2 - SAC 72, West Island College 38
Game #2 - SAC 80, St. Johns-Ravenscourt 52

In the gold quarter-finals, the level of competition jumped dramatically as the Saints faced a familiar CISAA opponent in Crescent School. It was evident from Crescent's structured offensive sets and quick ball movement that they had been preparing for a few weeks, and their strong post player caused the Saints problems at the defensive end of the floor. The incredible three-point shooting that had helped the Saints in pool play abandoned them, and for stretches they struggled to score. It was a good 'measuring stick' and a reminder that there is still lots of room for improvement during a long season.

Game #4 - SAC 39, Crescent School 73

In the gold 'friendly' match, the Saints bounced back and got back to playing their brand of basketball. It was a great opportunity for Brandon Yi, Edan Macpherson, Gavin Meng and Reza Ziai to showcase their ability to attack the paint, as strong drives allowed the Saints to finish at the rim or find open shooters on the perimeter. The Saints handled ball pressure well, and demonstrated that they are ready to take their game to the next level.

Game #5 - SAC 67, Lower Canada College 48