Rouge et Or Women’s Basketball Falls Short in U Sports Semifinal
QUEBEC CITY – The Université Laval Rouge et Or women’s basketball team saw its championship aspirations halted Friday, falling 55-43 to the defending champion University of Saskatchewan Huskies in the semifinals of the U Sports national tournament. The game, played before a crowd of 3,000 at the PEPS of Université Laval, marked the end of a surprising run for the Rouge et Or, who had exceeded expectations throughout the tournament.
Despite a valiant effort and a brief lead with just over six minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, Laval couldn’t overcome the Huskies’ experience and defensive pressure. The Saskatchewan team, undefeated in 20 regular season games and entering the tournament as the favorites, demonstrated why they’re a perennial powerhouse in Canadian university basketball.
A Tenacious Battle, Ultimately Decided by Shooting
The Rouge et Or displayed considerable tenacity, battling back from deficits and maintaining a competitive spirit throughout the contest. However, a series of missed shots down the stretch proved to be the difference. While Laval fought hard, the Huskies capitalized on numerous fouls committed by the Rouge et Or, and managed to regain control in the final minutes.
Interestingly, the Huskies struggled from beyond the arc, connecting on only one three-point shot for the entire game. Nevertheless, their ability to convert on other opportunities and draw fouls proved decisive. The Rouge et Or, despite their efforts, found themselves unable to consistently find the basket when it mattered most.
Holt and Khelifi Lead Laval in Scoring
In a tough outing for the Laval offense, Brinly Holt and Sabrine Khelifi led the way with 16 and 12 points respectively. Both players, in their fifth and final year with the program, gave their all in what was a bittersweet end to their university careers. Holt, in particular, showcased several key baskets throughout the game, demonstrating her scoring ability and leadership.
Brinly Holt a réussi plusieurs paniers importants dans la défaite.
Photo : Rouge et Or de l’Université Laval
A Surprise Run Comes to an End
The Rouge et Or entered the tournament as underdogs, and their journey to the semifinals was a testament to their resilience and teamwork. Their stunning quarterfinal victory against the University of Toronto Metropolitan Bold, the top-ranked team in the country, was a major upset that turned heads across the nation. That win, achieved in a closely contested match, demonstrated Laval’s potential to compete with the best programs in Canada.
This year marked the 26th participation for the Rouge et Or in the national championship tournament, and they were hoping to secure their first-ever national title. While that goal remains elusive, their performance this season has undoubtedly raised the profile of the program and instilled a sense of pride within the university community.
Bronze Medal Match Awaits
Despite the semifinal defeat, the Rouge et Or’s season is not yet over. They will now compete for the bronze medal on Sunday afternoon against the University of Calgary Dinos, who lost their semifinal matchup. The game will provide Laval with an opportunity to finish the tournament on a high note and secure a valuable medal.
The championship final will pit the University of Saskatchewan Huskies against the University of Fresh Brunswick. The Huskies will look to defend their title, while the New Brunswick team will aim to claim their first national championship.
What’s Next for Laval Basketball
The Rouge et Or will face the Calgary Dinos in the bronze medal game on Sunday, March 8th. While the exact tip-off time wasn’t immediately available, the game will be played at the PEPS of Université Laval. Fans can follow updates on the Université Laval athletics website ([https://rougeetor.ulaval.ca/](https://rougeetor.ulaval.ca/)).
This game represents a final chance for Laval to showcase their talent on the national stage and end their season with a positive result. It will also be a particularly poignant moment for graduating players like Holt and Khelifi, who will be playing their final game in a Rouge et Or uniform.
