The Hawks have won the CCAA national basketball championship after sweeping aside all competition, achieving dreams that were years in the making.
For some, like Humber Hawks third-year guard Kevin Otoo, it was a promise kept.
“My dad passed away two years ago, before we were supposed to play nationals and before the pandemic, and I promised him I’d win a national championship,” Otoo said. “So just being able to play again and winning is a big deal for myself.”
The men’s basketball team faced off against the St. Clair Saints, culminating in a hard fought final game on home court on March 27. The Hawks started the game off with a 14-point lead. As the game continued, it became a neck-and-neck race with St. Clair until the final moments as both teams kept a tight defense.
With a loud and spirited crowd, the Hawks were cheered to victory with a final score of 101 to 94.
But the win was more than that. It was a victory for Humber’s commitment in bouncing back from a pandemic where precautions held sports hostage.
For Otoo, who attended Humber for sports management, the experience was surreal. With crowds having been allowed to return to cheer on games in person, it brought back energy that hadn’t been felt since before the pandemic. He credits the roaring crowd as a key part of their win.
“We had a lot of support,” Otoo said. “We had a couple of student sections with a bunch of Humber kids. And it was just phenomenal. They honestly played a big part in our win.
“They were just always energetic,” he said.
It was the first official season for new head coach Omar Miles. Brought on board two years ago, Miles has already shown his expert leadership, leading Humber to a 16-0 season. He expressed his gratitude and pride during his time working with Humber.
“I feel fortunate to be a part of the Humber Hawks family,” Miles said on Twitter, while also praising the tough competition. “The St. Clair team was awesome during the Provincials and Nationals.”
The game was also attended by several prominent alumni from Humber. Patrick Rhodd, Everton Webb, O’Neil Henry, Mark Croft and Doug Lawrie all returned to Humber to show their support for the big game. They were a huge inspiration for the team.
“Even when we had bad moments, they continued to cheer us on,” Otoo said. “The alumni were always telling us stuff that we can improve on and supporting us.”
The Hawks played a strong game, with several players standing out. Fifth-year guard DeQuon Cascart, a Building and Construction major, finished with 28 points, which was a team high. Otoo recorded 25 points, while first-year forward and General Arts and Science major Frank Mitchell added a double-double with 20 points and 17 rebounds.
Otoo said keeping busy and connected was the key to their teamwork.
“We’d always be sure to be on the same page,” Otoo said. “If someone had COVID, we’d always try to pick them. We’re always there for each other, and that kept us optimistic and it kept us sane.”