Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum

Unique Wesmen Artifact Donated to Museum

2026-03-12T10:17:00.008-05:00

Recently, our Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum received a unique and very interesting donation of a University of Winnipeg Wesmen Women’s T-shirt from their memorable run of consecutive victories in the early 1990s. The T-shirt has “We Thrive in Chaos”, the team’s motto, on the front along with 70 victories. The team extended that string of wins to 88 before losing to the University of Manitoba Bison Women’s team on December 2, 1994, after 88 wins in a row, a then North American record.

What makes the item unique is that all team members have autographed the back of the T-shirt. The T-shirt was donated by Grant Richter, Executive Director of the Winnipeg Minor Basketball Association (WMBA), and, according to Grant, it belonged to his mother, a big fan of the Wesmen teams. It has 64/700 written on the front, indicating that only 700 were created.

We are sincerely grateful to Grant for his contribution and support of our Hall of Fame and Museum. Donations such as these play a critical role in ensuring that the stories, achievements, and legacy of basketball in Manitoba are preserved for future generations.

The Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum remains unique in Canada as the only province with a permanent physical site dedicated to honouring inducted members and showcasing the province’s basketball heritage. The Hall of Fame and Museum welcomes additional donations of basketball-related materials and is pleased to offer guided tours of the facility upon request to the basketball community and the public.

Honoured Hall of Fame Member Lorne Wilson Visits Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum

2026-02-09T10:38:00.000-06:00

The Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum was pleased to recently welcome Lorne Wilson, an honoured member of the 1957 Isaac Newton Nor’Westers and the 1958 Sisler Spartans provincial championship teams, and an inductee into the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame in 1998.

Mr. Wilson visited our museum space at the Duckworth Centre for the first time and expressed strong appreciation for the development of the facility and the depth of its historical collection. During his visit, he generously donated a significant collection of memorabilia from that era, including newspaper clippings, photographs, team crests, and yearbooks. These materials add important context and richness to the preservation of Manitoba’s basketball history.

We are sincerely grateful to Lorne Wilson for his contribution and support of the Hall of Fame. Donations such as these play a critical role in ensuring that the stories, achievements, and legacy of basketball in Manitoba are preserved for future generations.

The Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum remains unique in Canada as the only province with a permanent physical site dedicated to honouring inducted members and showcasing the province’s basketball heritage. The Hall of Fame welcomes additional donations of basketball-related materials and is pleased to offer guided tours of the facility to the basketball community and the public.

Celebrating Black History Month In Manitoba

2026-02-02T11:48:25.941-06:00

Basketball Manitoba is proud to recognize and celebrate Black History Month in Manitoba in February. This important recognition time is an opportunity to showcase the impact and achievements of individuals from the local Black community in basketball throughout history.

As part of this celebration, Basketball Manitoba will feature individuals who are members of the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame through regular social media posts. These individuals have made a significant impact on the sport of basketball and have left a lasting legacy.

In addition, Basketball Manitoba will highlight individuals who have been guests on the Basketball Manitoba Podcast series. These individuals have shared their experiences and insights about basketball and have offered valuable perspectives on the impact of Black individuals in the sport.

The sport of basketball has been a part of the fabric of our society for over a century. It has been a source of inspiration and motivation for many people, especially those in the Black community. From its early beginnings to the global sport it is today, basketball has provided a platform for individuals to showcase their talents and skills and to make a difference in their communities.

So, this February, as we celebrate Black History Month in Manitoba, let us take a moment to recognize and celebrate the achievements of these individuals and their impact on the sport of basketball. Their contributions to the sport have made a lasting impact and have left a legacy that will continue to inspire and motivate future generations of basketball players.

Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame

Black History Month Honoured Members

Canada West Hall of Fame Inducts Brandon Bobcats Basketball Legends into Class of 2025-26

2026-01-12T12:25:00.003-06:00

Canada West has announced its Hall of Fame Class of 2025-26, with Brandon University’s storied men’s basketball legacy taking a major spotlight through the induction of Patrick Jebbison (Athlete Category) and the 1987-89 Brandon Bobcats Men’s Basketball dynasty (Team Category). Both Patrick and these teams are also members of the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame.

Patrick Jebbison (Brandon Bobcats Men’s Basketball | 1984-89)

One of the most accomplished student-athletes in Brandon University history, Patrick Jebbison has been named to the Canada West Hall of Fame in the Athlete category, recognized for his elite play and championship success with the Brandon Bobcats men’s basketball program.

Recruited from Martin Grove Collegiate by legendary coach Jerry Hemmings, Jebbison quickly emerged as one of the top players in the Great Plains Athletic Conference. Over his career, he helped elevate Brandon University to national prominence and became a defining figure in one of the most dominant eras in Canadian university basketball.

Jebbison played a central role in the Bobcats’ three national championships, helping secure the program’s first national title in 1986-87 before repeating as champions in 1988 and 1989. His resume includes GPAC Player of the Year honours, national player of the year recognition, and multiple first-team All-Canadian selections, cementing his place among Canada West’s all-time greats.

1987-89 Brandon Bobcats Men’s Basketball Dynasty (Team Category)

The 1987-89 Brandon Bobcats Men’s Basketball team has been inducted in the Team category after establishing itself as one of the most dominant dynasties in U SPORTS basketball history.

Under head coach Jerry Hemmings, the Bobcats captured three consecutive national championships from 1987 to 1989, creating a legacy that remains unmatched in Canadian university basketball history.

The championship run began in 1987, led by five-time first-team All-Canadian John Carson, who earned tournament MVP honours while guiding Brandon to its first national title. The Bobcats followed with a dominant 1988 season, going undefeated in conference play and closing the year with a 30-game winning streak and a second straight national championship.

The program completed the historic three-peat in 1989, once again securing the GPAC championship and edging Victoria in the national final. The team’s roster featured tremendous depth and elite leadership, highlighted by two-time national player of the year Patrick Jebbison and national tournament MVP Joey Vickery, who played a major role in delivering the third consecutive title.

About the Canada West Hall of Fame

Established in 2019, the Canada West Hall of Fame commemorates 100 years of university sporting excellence across Western Canada, celebrating the exceptional student-athletes, teams, coaches, and builders who have shaped the conference’s legacy.

For more information on the Canada West Hall of Fame and its inductees, visit the Canada West Hall of Fame website.

Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame Opens Call for Nominations as April 1 Deadline Approaches

2025-12-17T08:44:00.002-06:00

Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame has announced its annual call for nominations, inviting communities across the province to put forward outstanding athletes, builders, teams, and officials who have made a lasting impact on sport in Manitoba.

Each year, the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame recognizes excellence, leadership, and contribution to sport by honouring individuals and teams whose achievements have helped shape Manitoba’s rich sporting history. The nomination process relies heavily on community involvement to ensure deserving candidates are identified and considered.

The deadline to submit nominations is April 1.

Community members are encouraged to consider individuals within their networks who exemplify excellence and leadership in sport. The Hall of Fame selection team is available to assist nominators by providing guidance on required elements and identifying any gaps within a potential nomination package.

Detailed information on eligibility criteria, submission requirements, and the overall selection process is available through the Selection Process and Nomination Forms. The Honoured Members Database is also available online to review those who have already been inducted.

For assistance with nominations, please contact Cheney Lansard at cheney.lansard@sportmanitoba.com or call 204-925-5935. Additional information can be found at https://www.sportmanitoba.ca/hall-of-fame.

“When Basketball Was a Game” Book by Hall of Fame Member Mike Hickey

2025-12-15T09:42:00.007-06:00

Hall of Fame member Mike Hickey has announced the release of his new basketball book titled “When Basketball Was a Game”.

Recently retired from the coaching ranks, Hickey has published his second book, which documents the remarkable 60-year teaching and coaching career of Don Ryan, the longtime leader of the Hempstead Salvation Army/Dons Biddy Basketball program in New York. Under Ryan’s guidance, the program recorded more than 3,000 victories and captured three U.S. World Biddy Championships.

While the on-court success is notable, the book’s primary focus is on the values that defined Ryan’s program. Sportsmanship, loyalty, commitment, discipline, and hard work are presented as the true legacy of a coach who consistently placed character and education ahead of wins and trophies.

When Basketball Was a Game also explores the personal journeys of the young athletes who passed through the program, many of whom used basketball as a pathway out of poverty and difficult childhood circumstances. For these players, the gym was more than a court; it was a refuge. The book’s foreword is written by Julius Erving, one of Ryan’s former players, who reflects on both the successes and failures that shaped lives far beyond the game.

The book has received strong early feedback, earning five-star reviews on Amazon, and Hickey is hopeful that sharing the story with the Manitoba basketball community will help extend its reach.

Mike Hickey is a long-time contributor to the game and a proud member of the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the coaching staff of the 1996 and 1997 Manitoba Bison women’s basketball teams. He continues to stay connected to Winnipeg and Manitoba basketball through the Hall of Fame and its ongoing work to preserve and celebrate the sport’s history.

LEARN MORE…

In Memory of Gary Howard

2025-12-11T10:21:00.001-06:00

With deep sadness, the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum and Basketball Manitoba share the news of the passing of Coach Gary Howard in Oliver, British Columbia.

Gary was the first coach of the Brandon University Bobcats from 1968 to 1974 before moving on to the University of Calgary, where he coached from 1974 to 1995.

During his time with the Bobcats, Gary helped establish the foundation for the program’s future successes and national championships in the 1980s and 1990s. He will always be remembered for leading one of the most iconic games in Canadian basketball history: the 14-13 loss to the University of Manitoba Bisons in February 1971, now known as the “Stall Ball” game.

Coach Howard won more than 300 games in his career, earned Canada West Coach of the Year honours four times, and guided the Calgary Dinos to two Canada West championships.

His fiery coaching style and memorable storytelling made him a true legend in Canadian basketball.

Our deepest sympathies go out to his wife, Ann, his entire family, his many friends, and all the players who had the privilege of being coached by him.

Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame & Museum Call for Nominations for Class of 2026; Due Dec 15

2025-12-08T18:34:00.000-06:00

The Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame & Museum has announced that the next Induction Dinner will be held in September 2026. The Selection Committee is now requesting nominations of worthy candidates for the next induction that meet the set criteria. The deadline to submit a nomination for the next induction is December 15, 2025.

Eligibility for Nomination

All nominations are welcome. The criteria/guidelines used by the selection committee are as follows...

Player Category

Players who consistently performed at a high level over a number of years on provincial, university, national or professional teams; and (a) who played high school basketball in Manitoba, whether or not they stayed in Manitoba after graduation; or (b) who played high school basketball outside the province, but played at an elite level in Manitoba.

Builder Category

Eligible nominees are individuals, such as coaches, managers, trainers, sponsors, and media persons, who have made a significant contribution to the development and promotion of basketball in Manitoba.

Team Category

Manitoba-based teams that have won national, international, or world championships, and High schools whose male or female varsity teams have won a minimum of three provincial championships within a five-year period.

Submitting Nominations

The Manitoba Basketball of Fame Committee invites members of the community to submit nominations in the player, builder, and team categories of the Hall of Fame. Nominations can be submitted at any time. However, as the Induction Dinner is traditionally held in late September / early October, the selection sub-committee of the MBHOF Committee reviews only those nominations submitted no later than December 15 of the preceding year.

To submit a nomination for consideration, please visit the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame website at...

http://www.mbhof.com/p/nominate.html

New Bill Wedlake Scholarship Award Announced

2025-12-01T12:11:00.003-06:00

On Saturday, 29 November 2025, at the University of Winnipeg Duckworth Centre during the Wesmen vs. Alberta Golden Bears game, the inaugural Bill Wedlake Scholarship Award was presented to Noah Kankam and Raia Guinto. This new annual scholarship will support U of W basketball players, honouring the legacy of Bill Wedlake and his decades-long contribution to Manitoba basketball.

Bill Wedlake (MBHOF Class of 2005) began his basketball career in 1968. Over 32 years he coached at both the high school and university levels — including 16 years at St. John’s High School (1968–1984) and 16 years with the Wesmen men’s basketball team (1984–2000). Across his coaching career, his teams amassed over 650 wins.

Beyond coaching, Wedlake played a foundational role as an administrator and builder of the sport in Manitoba. He helped co-found the Winnipeg Invitational Tournament (WIT), served as President of Basketball Manitoba, held the presidency of the Manitoba High Schools Athletic Association, and served as the National Basketball Commissioner for the Canadian School Sport Federation.

At the University of Winnipeg, after his coaching tenure, Wedlake served as Athletic Director until his retirement in April 2008 — a role in which he oversaw major growth in Wesmen athletics, community engagement, and facility development.

Bill’s impact has been recognized widely. He was inducted into the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame in 2005, and into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in 2013 — cementing his place among the province’s most influential basketball builders.

The Bill Wedlake Scholarship Award is intended to carry forward his commitment to excellence, development, and opportunity — offering support to U of W student-athletes who not only show talent on the court, but also embody the values Bill stood for: leadership, dedication, and community-mindedness.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO THIS FUND…

Bison Sports Celebrates 50th Anniversary of 1976 Bisons Men’s Basketball Team’s National Championship

2025-11-30T10:23:00.003-06:00

Bison Sports has announced the 50th anniversary celebration of the 1976 Bisons men’s basketball team, highlighted during the home game on Saturday, November 29. Family members, friends, alumni, and supporters gathered to recognize one of the most significant groups in program history.

The evening opened with a tribute video honouring the 1976 national champions, followed by individual introductions at centre court. Each team member emerged from the Bisons’ bench and walked through a tunnel formed by the current roster, receiving an extended standing ovation.

A special presentation followed, as current Bisons players presented each member of the 1976 championship team with a retro 1976 jersey. This gesture connected past and present generations of Bisons basketball and marked one of the evening’s most memorable moments.

As part of the celebration, the 1976 Bisons squad was officially inducted into the inaugural Herd Hoops Honour Roll. University President Michael Benarroch presented each team member with a Herd Hoops Honour Roll certificate in recognition of their historic accomplishments and lasting impact on the program.

More than 100 guests later attended a post-game reception hosted by Bison Sports, providing an opportunity for teammates, families, and alumni to gather and celebrate this milestone.

Looking ahead, the following individuals will be inducted into the Class of 2026 Herd Hoops Honour Roll on Thursday, January 29, 2026, during a pre-game ceremony before the Bisons face the Wesmen:

Players: Terry Ball, Darryl Rumsey, Rick Watts, Jim Wright

Bison Pillars: John Embry, John Loewen, Dave Mills

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by University of Manitoba Bisons (@umbisons)

Source: https://bisonbasketballalumni.blogspot.com

Vic Pruden Basketball Bursary Fund Launched to Support Manitoba’s Next Generation of University Athletes

2025-11-24T09:15:00.002-06:00

The Vic Pruden Basketball Bursary Fund has been announced to honour one of Manitoba’s most influential builders in the sport of basketball. Established in 2025, the bursary recognizes two graduating high school student-athletes each year, one male and one female, who intend to continue their basketball careers at Brandon University, the University of Manitoba, or the University of Winnipeg.

The bursary is named in honour of Vic Pruden, whose seven decades of leadership helped shape basketball at every level in Manitoba. As a builder of the sport, he was the founding organizer of the Fort Garry Invitational Tournament and the Golden Boy Invitational – now known as the Wesmen Classic – and was the driving force behind creating both the men’s and women’s basketball programs at the University of Winnipeg. His coaching résumé includes numerous championship teams at Sisler High School, Vincent Massey Collegiate, and the University of Winnipeg, along with significant contributions to provincial and national programs. Testimonials within the brochure further highlight Pruden’s enduring legacy as a mentor and architect of basketball in the province.

From his own experience, Vic understood the financial challenge many student-athletes face while pursuing post-secondary sport. This bursary was created to assist two graduating athletes with financial need as they take their next academic and athletic step.

READ MORE ABOUT VIC ON THE MANITOBA BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME

READ MORE ABOUT THE SCHOLARSHIP IN THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

HOW TO HELP:

Everyone is welcome to contribute to the fund. Gifts to the Vic Pruden Bursary Fund are pooled and invested, with a portion of the annual income distributed directly to recipients. The original contributions remain invested, ensuring long-term support for generations of Manitoba student-athletes.

The bursary fund aims to grow into a fully sustainable endowment. Beginning in the near future, the two annual bursary recipients will be formally recognized as part of the Basketball Manitoba Awards.

Donations can be made by phone, online, or by mailing the completed contribution form. The official giving form administered by The Winnipeg Foundation outlines payment options, recurring gift details, tax receipt information, and mailing instructions.

Donation Options:

Credit Card Online

Mailed Cheque

By Phone to 204-944-9474 (toll-free 1-877-974-3631)

UM Bisons Basketball To Celebrate 50th Anniversary Of 1976 National Championship at Nov 29 Ceremony & Tribute

2025-11-19T18:03:00.005-06:00

The University of Manitoba Bison Sports has announced that it will honour the 1975–76 Bisons Men’s Basketball Team on Saturday, November 29, recognizing the 50th anniversary of their CIAU National Championship and their induction into the Herd Hoops Honour Roll.

The celebration will take place between the men’s and women’s games, with each team member — or a family representative for those who have passed — introduced on the court. A re-imagined retro jersey will be presented to commemorate the championship season, bringing the group back together where their historic run began five decades ago.

Basketball Manitoba is pleased to share this info with the wider basketball community. Supporters, alumni, and fans are encouraged to be part of a meaningful night honouring a team that remains deeply connected to the sport and to the legacy they built.

Event Lineup

5:30 p.m.

Pre-Game Celebration

6:00 p.m.

Bisons vs. Calgary Dinos

Join the Herd as Bisons basketball faces the Calgary Dinos and the university pays tribute to one of the most accomplished teams in its history.

More I found at http://www.gobisons.ca.

In Memory of Hal Mauthe

2025-11-10T12:25:00.002-06:00

With great sadness, the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum, together with Basketball Manitoba, share the news of the passing of Harold (Hal) Mauthe — a lifelong contributor to Manitoba’s sport community, particularly in basketball and football.

Hal was inducted into the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame in 1985 as a Builder, recognizing his remarkable impact as a coach, referee, and leader. He was also inducted in 1983 and 1984 as the coach of the Winnipeg Light Infantry (WLI) national championship junior men’s teams from 1952 and 1953.

A proud product of Winnipeg’s North End, Hal attended Isaac Newton High School, where his athletic ability shone across several sports. While still a student, he began his coaching career in 1947, guiding both the freshmen and varsity girls’ basketball teams while continuing to play varsity basketball himself.

In 1949, Hal coached the C.U.A.C. junior girls to the city championship, then advanced the team into senior competition, capturing the provincial title in both 1950 and 1951. In 1951, he took over as head coach of the W.L.I. junior men’s team, leading them to consecutive Canadian Junior Men’s Championships in 1952 and 1953.

Hal continued coaching in the senior league until 1961, when he joined the Manitoba Basketball Officials Association. Over the next fifteen years, he officiated at all levels of the game, including at the 1967 Pan American Games in Winnipeg, and served two years as President of the Association.

Beyond basketball, Hal’s dedication to sport extended into leadership and mentorship across the Manitoba athletic community. In recognition of his lifelong contributions, he was inducted into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in 2019.

As noted in his published obituary, Hal will be deeply missed but never forgotten — a true builder of Manitoba basketball and a cornerstone in the province’s sporting legacy.

VIEW INDUCTION PAGE

VIEW OBITUARY

Dolhun Family Makes Major Artifacts Donation to the MBHOF

2025-11-10T12:25:00.001-06:00

Wes Dolhun, the brother of Sam Dolhun, who passed away in November of 2024, has made a significant donation of artifacts from his late brother. Sam Dolhun was a member of the 1953 Winnipeg Light Infantry (WLI) Junior Men’s team that won the Dominion / Canadian Junior Championship. That team, along with the 1952 WLI National Junior Champions were inducted into our Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame in 1983 and 1984 and the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in 2005.

The donation featured Sam’s navy-blue team blazer with a crest on the vest pocket marking the WLI championship in 1952. Also donated were some photographs and Sam’s City of Winnipeg ring that was presented to all team members in recognition of their national championship. We are very grateful to Mr. Dolhun for making this donation and ensuring that his brother’s basketball story will live on in our Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum.

Basketball Memorabilia Wanted for Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum

2025-11-08T17:51:00.000-06:00

Doing some fall cleaning? The Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum asks all basketball community members to search through the basketball memorabilia they have collected over the years. We want to increase our collection with as many 'new' and different items as possible. We know that many of you have a lot of stuff that you, or your parents, have saved over the years. This is an opportunity to donate it to the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum so that it can be preserved and displayed for all our visitors, present and future. It will get a good home, be looked after, and become a part of the history of the great basketball game in Manitoba.

We can also convert any old game tapes in most formats to add to our Classic Games collection and add them to YouTube. We can take formats such as DVD, VHS, and Beta, among others. Learn more...

What are we looking for, you ask? Any and all of the following :

uniforms, including shorts, warm-ups and coaching shirts
newspaper clippings, including those mounted in scrapbooks
game programs
basketball-related pins
trophies and plaques
game and team photos

There is no need to sort or organize – we will take anything in any shape or order. We are prepared to pick up whatever you are willing to donate, or you can drop it off or mail it to...

Basketball Manitoba
Room 324 - 145 Pacific Avenue
Winnipeg, MB R3B 2Z6

Please email mbhof@basketballmanitoba.ca to arrange a drop-off or pick-up of your items.

If you live outside Winnipeg, mail it to Basketball Manitoba. If you want some items picked up, call the Basketball Manitoba office at 204-925-5773.

Learn more about how you can help support the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum at http://www.mbhof.com.

U of M Basketball Herd Hoops Club Announces 2025-26 Honour Roll Inductees

2025-10-31T10:00:00.002-05:00

The Herd Hoops Club, representing the University of Manitoba Bisons Men’s Basketball Alumni, has announced the inaugural class of inductees to its 2025-26 Honour Roll. The formal induction ceremony will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. prior to the Bisons men’s basketball home game.

An exception will be made for the 1976 Bisons Men’s Basketball Team, which will be inducted earlier on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., before the men’s home game, as part of the program’s 50th anniversary celebration of their national championship season.

INDUCTEES

Players

Terry Ball (1965-1970): A four-time WCIAU First Team All-Star and conference scoring leader for three seasons, Ball was named Second Team All-Canadian in 1967-68 and First Team All-Canadian in 1968-69, when he also earned recognition as National Player of the Year. He graduated as the Bisons’ all-time leading scorer.
Darryl Rumsey (1971-1976): A two-time First Team All-Canadian, four-time Conference All-Star, and 1975-76 University Athlete of the Year, Rumsey was a key member of the 1976 National Championship team and graduated as one of the Bisons’ top scorers and rebounders.
Rick Watts (1971-1976): A First Team All-Canadian and three-time GPAC All-Star, Watts was also a National Tournament All-Star in 1976. He remains the Bisons’ single-game scoring record holder (43 points) and was a core part of the 1976 National Championship roster.
Jim Wright (1953-1957, deceased): A dominant force during the 1950s, Wright led the Bisons to three consecutive WCIAU titles and became the first player in program history to surpass 1,000 career points. He twice led the conference in scoring and earned two Pat Gorman Trophies as team MVP.

Bison Pillars

John Embry (1959-1964): A former team MVP who became a successful business leader in Manitoba and Ontario, Embry has remained a generous supporter of Bisons basketball.
John Loewen (1967-1972): A leader on and off the court, Loewen’s lasting contributions to the Bisons include his commitment as a loyal alumnus and benefactor of the men’s program.
Dave Mills (1959-1964): A two-time team MVP and conference All-Star, Mills went on to a distinguished professional career while giving back significantly to enhance student-athlete opportunities.

Team

1976 University of Manitoba Bisons Men’s Basketball Team – CIAU National Champions

The Herd Hoops Honour Roll recognizes individuals and teams that have made outstanding contributions to the success and tradition of Bisons men’s basketball, both on and off the court.

For more information, contact Greg Daniels at greghdaniels@outlook.com, or visit https://bisonbasketballalumni.blogspot.com.

A Golden Moment for a Golden Arm

2025-09-04T10:11:00.000-05:00

by Curtis J. Phillips

Both were starters on the 1975–76 Manitoba High Schools Athletic Association AAAA boys’ championship DMCI Maroons team, where Ken Opalko emerged as one of the most talented high school players in Canada.

Each went on to leave a lasting mark on Canadian basketball.

Their friendship began nearly 53 years ago on the outdoor courts at Sargent Park.

That journey came full circle when Phillips presented Opalko with a golden basketball—already signed by members of Canada’s senior national teams, including Opalko himself.

Phillips had received three of these Golden Balls on behalf of the Canadian National Basketball Teams Alumni Association to present at special basketball occasions in Canada.

Phillips presented two of them to MVPs of past Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association championships, and the third was reserved for Opalko and presented recently at the 12th West End Legends Shoot-around at Sargent Park.

Fellow west-end high school players and friends from the 1970s in attendance added their signatures to the Golden Ball.

Making the Golden Ball a meaningful keepsake that now carries names from the beginning of Opalko’s career, his national team peers, and the community that still honours him today.

Opalko became one of the top scorers in Canadian university history, represented Canada internationally and later coached new generations. Phillips built a media career that earned international recognition for preserving and promoting basketball’s history and legacy.

Photo: Daniel McIntyre Collegiate Institute alumni Curtis J. Phillips (right) presents former teammate Ken Opalko with a special Golden Basketball.

New Digital Collection Showcases Vintage Basketball Jerseys and Memorabilia

2025-08-26T11:00:00.001-05:00

The Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum has announced the addition of a significant personal collection in a digital format of Manitoba-based basketball jerseys, clothing, and memorabilia, generously shared by Manitoban collector Phoenix Pennycook. The collection spans more than 70 years of items and features contributions from high schools, universities, community clubs, and provincial championship events across the province.

The collection includes:

85+ jerseys from Manitoba high schools, clubs, and universities
15+ provincial championship event shirts and programs
5 rare trading cards featuring Manitoba players (Todd MacCulloch, Emmanuel Akot, Keith Vassell, Justin Wright-Foreman)
Multiple other items connected to players, coaches, and milestone moments

This collection offers a rare glimpse into Manitoba’s basketball history, preserving decades of stories, achievements, and community pride. The Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum thanks Phoenix for digitally sharing this extraordinary archive with the basketball community.

VIEW THE FULL COLLECTION

Family of Dave Smith Makes a Significant Donation to the Hall of Fame and Museum

2025-08-18T11:00:00.001-05:00

The family of Dave Smith, who was inducted into the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum as a player in 1991 and as a member of the 1955, 1956, and 1957 University of Manitoba Bisons, has made a remarkable donation of artifacts in his memory. Smith, who passed away in 2024, left a lasting legacy in Canadian basketball, and this generous contribution from his family ensures his impact will be preserved for future generations.

The donation includes a University of Manitoba Bisons sweater, a St. Andrews Senior Men’s Dunlops jersey and shorts, a Stellars jersey, numerous clippings and programs, along with materials from the 1956 Canadian Olympic Finals. These items will serve as an invaluable addition to our heritage collection, offering insight into one of the most celebrated eras of Manitoba basketball history.

We extend our sincere thanks to Carolyn, Neil, and Janet for ensuring that their father’s memorabilia has found a permanent home where it will be preserved in perpetuity.

The Hall encourages others to consider donating their personal or family basketball memorabilia. These contributions play an important role in telling the stories of our sport and celebrating the individuals who have shaped its history.

In Memory of Dave Smith

2025-08-05T08:42:00.004-05:00

It is with great sadness that the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum and Basketball Manitoba relay the news of the passing of Dave Smith in September 2024.

For many years, Dave toiled as an underrated player, yet anyone who ever played with or against him immediately recognized his skill and talent. At home at either of the forward or centre position, his turnaround jump shot plus his consistent rebounding made him a valued member of any team.

Dave’s basketball career began at Gordon Bell High School, and in the 1951-52 season, he led the Panthers to a City Championship. The following year, he played with the Winnipeg Stellars in the Winnipeg Senior Men’s League, and he then began a five-year stint with the University of Manitoba Bisons. During that time, Dave was a Western Conference All-Star twice and the recipient of the Pat Gorman Trophy as the team’s Most Valuable Player. In addition, he led the Bisons to three consecutive WCIAU titles from 1954-55 through 1956-57.

Upon graduating, Dave played senior ball for ten years, was a league All-Star 3 times, and several times played on teams in the National Championships. In the 1980s, Dave was a member of the Investors Basketball Team and played a key role in their winning two Provincial Masters Championships.

He was inducted into the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame as a player in 1991 and as a member of the Bison Men’s championship teams in 2011

Our most sincere sympathies are extended to his family and friends. Dave was one of those good guys who will be missed by all who knew him.

Bulloch Family Makes Large Donation of Artifacts to MBHOF

2025-07-16T10:30:00.004-05:00

With sincere thanks, we are pleased to announce that the Bulloch family has made a significant donation of historical basketball artifacts to the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum.

Following the recent passing of Jim Bulloch Jr., the family has graciously donated many items collected over the years to honour the achievements and contributions of Jim Bulloch Sr. Affectionately known as the “Old Soldier,” Jim Sr. was inducted into the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame as a builder in the inaugural class of 1983. He was also inducted into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in 1981.

The donated materials include Jim’s 1953–54 Paulins red leather jacket—worn when the team he coached won the Canadian Senior Men’s National Championship—as well as numerous trophies, plaques, scrapbooks documenting his celebrated career as both a player and coach, tournament programs, crests and posters, personal correspondence, and detailed documentation (including newspaper clippings) of the Paulins' trip to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 1954 to represent Canada at the World Championships.

We are incredibly grateful to the Bulloch family for ensuring these important materials are preserved. A new display featuring many of these items is planned for the near future, and once catalogued, they will also be available to view online through the Musetoba public portal.

We hope this generous act inspires other individuals and families to consider donating their basketball memorabilia to the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum, giving it a permanent home before it is lost forever.

As Jessie Bulloch (pictured above with Jim Bulloch Sr.’s 1953-54 Paulins jacket) shared, “I am delighted and relieved to know that ‘all that stuff’ we’ve been hanging on to is now in its rightful place. Thank you so much!”

In Memory of Gord Johnson (1931-2025)

2025-07-07T08:49:00.002-05:00

The Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum and Basketball Manitoba are very sad to share the news of the passing of Gord / Gordy Johnson. Gord was a member of the Winnipeg Stellars Junior Men's teams of the early 1950s, which won National Championships in 1950 and 1951. Those teams were inducted into our Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame in 1983 and 1984 and into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in 1995.

Gord grew up in Winnipeg's North End and attended St. John's Tech / High School. He was a highly accomplished athlete, excelling not only in basketball but also in track and field and football. In 1949, his St. John's team won the provincial basketball championship, and he was the 220-yard dash provincial champion that same year. In 1950, St John's won the football championship with Gord as the leading scorer.

In addition, he became a very respected football official, officiating for 16 years in the CFL and earning four Grey Cup assignments. He further went on to become a CFL Officiating Supervisor for another 10 years.

Gord was a humble man who volunteered at many community clubs and was often seen walking in the Middlechurch and Riverbend areas.

Our most sincere condolences are extended to his family and friends.

2025 Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum Annual Report

2025-06-24T10:44:00.001-05:00

This was another eventful and successful year for our Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum (MBHOFM). Manitoba is still the only province in Canada that has a permanent site for a basketball hall of fame and museum. The following were the highlights:

Our 19th Induction Dinner on September 28, 2024, saw another new record set with 332 people in attendance. The following individuals and teams were inducted:

PLAYERS: Jennifer Finch and Keith Strieter
BUILDERS: Wes Crymble, Joe Di Curzio, Tom Kendall, and Reynold Reyes
TEAMS: Neelin High School Spartans 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007 & 2008 Varsity Girls and St. Laurent School Hawks 1992, 1993 & 1995 Varsity Boys

Our heritage inventory collection continued to grow. More and more people are realizing that the old uniforms, programs, clippings, etc. that have been stored in a box somewhere in our homes need a permanent home in our museum – all donations are welcome.
We have continued the process of entering our heritage collection into a database, Musetoba, purchased through our membership in the Association of Manitoba Museums (AMM). We now have over 1000 items entered. This allows public access to our collection via the Public Portal. We now have three “sites”: our physical site at the University of Winnipeg, our Hall of Fame website with Basketball Manitoba, and the Public Portal site with AMM.
Based on a grant from Manitoba Sport, Culture and Heritage, we hired an individual to conduct research and submit a report on the history of the University of Manitoba Bisons basketball.
For the first time, we qualified as a Level 2 Museum through the Community Museum Grants Program.
We continued to receive an annual grant from our endowment fund through the Winnipeg Foundation, where we raised funds to ensure our long-term sustainability.
We continued to change the displays in our display cases on a regular basis to highlight different themes or members of the Hall of Fame.
In the past year, January 1- December 31, 2024, we had 13,419 visitors to our University of Winnipeg site.
Our financial situation remains very solid. We are committed to investing our revenues directly into our Hall of Fame and Museum site and the basketball community in general.
Our MBHOFM is open every day during the year from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., except for statutory holidays.
Our committee members were: Ross Wedlake (Chair), Vic Pruden (Past Chair), Ted Stoesz (Vice Chair), Janet McMahon, Jerry Ilchyna, Wes Crymble, Morris Glimcher, Jerry Hemmings, Carol Ploen-Hosegood, Ken Opalko, Susan Johnson, Coleen Dufresne, Kyla Shore, Tyler Crayston, and Adam Wedlake (Recording Secretary - Ex-Officio).
Here are the links for much of the above :

Basketball Manitoba – www.basketballmanitoba.ca
Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum – www.mbhof.com
AMM Musetoba – www.museumsmanitoba.com
Public Portal – www.musetoba.ca/Detail/entities/134

For 2025, the following are planned:

The development and adoption of a new governance model.
The further organization of our heritage collection and the further development of the Musetoba system.
A new custom-made display case.

In conclusion, we need to mention the tremendous and continuing support we get from the University of Winnipeg, Basketball Manitoba and our members and friends. Our Hall of Fame and Museum would not exist without this support and the support of our extended basketball community.

Respectfully submitted by

Ross Wedlake

Chair, MBHFOM

Hall of Fame Alumni from Manitoba Set to Represent Canada at FIMBA World Championships in Switzerland

2025-05-20T12:01:00.003-05:00

The Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame & Museum is proud to recognize a group of esteemed inductees who will once again don Canadian colours as members of the Stooges Canada Basketball Club at the 2025 FIMBA World Maxibasketball Championship in Ticino, Switzerland. The event, which runs from June 27 to July 6, brings together over 390 teams from 46 countries and will take place across three cities: Bellinzona, Lugano, and Locarno.

Among the Canadian delegation, several Manitoba-connected athletes—all Hall of Fame members—will represent Canada in the 55+, 60+, and 65+ men’s divisions. Each brings a storied history of basketball excellence, both in university and international competition, proudly rooted in their Manitoba beginnings.

From Brandon University:

Jude Kelly (65+) – A former USports All-Canadian and GPAC All-Star, Kelly led the Bobcats during their powerhouse years of the early 1980s. He was inducted into the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame in 2005 and the Brandon University Sports Wall of Fame in 1999.
Patrick Jebbison (60+) – One of Canada’s most dominant university players in the late 1980s, Jebbison was twice named USports Player of the Year and won three national titles with the Bobcats. He is a 2005 Hall of Fame inductee and a Brandon University Sports Wall of Fame member.
Joey Vickery (55+) – Known for his dynamic scoring and international success, Vickery is a three-time USports All-Canadian and a 1989 national champion with Brandon. He was inducted into the Hall in 2005.

From the University of Manitoba:

Terry Garrow (60+) – A 1988 USports All-Canadian and three-time GPAC All-Star, Garrow also competed professionally and won gold at the 2015 FIMBA World Championship with Team USA. He entered the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015.

From the University of Winnipeg:

Murray Gehman (55+) – A two-time GPAC All-Star in the late 1980s, Gehman will bring his leadership and competitive edge to the 55+ squad.

All five of these alumni have not only contributed significantly to the legacy of their respective university programs but have also earned national and international acclaim throughout their playing careers. Their continued participation at the highest levels of masters basketball is a testament to their lifelong commitment to the game.

The Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame & Museum congratulates all participating alumni and wishes Team Canada great success on the international stage in Ticino this summer.

Ross Wedlake Honoured with Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Historical Preservation and Promotion

2025-05-08T22:29:00.003-05:00

The Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum and Basketball Manitoba congratulates Ross Wedlake who has been formally recognized with the 2025 Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Historical Preservation and Promotion! The award, presented by The Honourable Anita R. Neville, P.C., O.M., Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba, honours individuals who have rendered prolonged, meritorious service in the preservation and promotion of Manitoba’s history and heritage. The award was presented in partnership with the Manitoba Historical Society during a ceremony held at Government House on May 8, 2025.

Often referred to as “Manitoba’s Basketball Historian,” Wedlake has spent a lifetime immersed in the sport—as a player, coach, official, and administrator. He competed at every level in Canada, played internationally for Team Canada in 1972, and was a member of the St. Andrews Super Saints, winning three national senior men’s championships.

His most enduring legacy, however, is the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum (MBHOFM), located at the University of Winnipeg Duckworth Centre. Under his leadership since 2006 and formal designation of the site as a museum in 2012, Ross transformed what began as a Hall of Fame into a full-fledged museum that showcases over 100 years of basketball history in Manitoba. It is the only museum of its kind in Canada with a dedicated physical space and digital collection available through the Musetoba public portal.

Wedlake led the development of the museum’s collections management policy, accessioning system, display infrastructure, and online presence. He has secured significant grants, led a $100,000 endowment fundraising campaign through the Winnipeg Foundation, and actively oversees the digitization and expansion of the collection.

Ross ensures inclusivity across Manitoba’s basketball story—featuring high school, university, provincial, professional, Indigenous, and wheelchair basketball histories. He also led a special research initiative and curated a display highlighting Indigenous contributions to basketball, aligning with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations.

He continues to organize biennial induction dinners, acts as Master of Ceremonies, curates rotating exhibits, and frequently consults with institutions and media as the go-to expert on basketball history in Manitoba. His impact has been recognized with numerous honours, including induction into both the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame.

The Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum stands as a testament to his tireless volunteerism, passion for history, and commitment to preserving the legacy of the sport he loves.

Pictured with Ross (back row, left to right) at the award presentation was his brother Bill, wife Brenda, daughter Heather, MBHOFM Committee Members Vic Pruden and Ted Stoesz and nephew Adam.

To learn more about the museum and access its growing online archives, visit www.mbhof.com.