WINNIPEG — A new-look Manitoba Bisons squad took its first steps into a new era Friday night, but the Winnipeg Wesmen spoiled the season opener with a 93-67 victory at the Duckworth Centre.
With 10 newcomers on the roster following significant offseason turnover, the Bisons entered the 2026-27 campaign focused on building their identity and integrating a wave of new talent. Friday's opener offered flashes of that potential, but Winnipeg's fast start proved too much to overcome.
The Wesmen raced out to a 30-9 lead after the first quarter, capitalizing on Manitoba turnovers and shooting 71.4 per cent from the field in the opening 10 minutes. The Bisons settled in during the second quarter, outscoring Winnipeg 24-18, but still trailed 48-33 at halftime.
Third-year guard
Taven Vigilance, one of the returning players expected to assume a larger role this season, led Manitoba with 11 points and four rebounds. Veteran point guard
Brandt Lenz also scored 11 points while adding three assists.
Newcomers contributed throughout the lineup.
Samuel Desrochers scored nine points in his Bisons debut, while
Giovanni Ajiamah added nine points, five rebounds and three assists off the bench.
Titus Heron and
Ramogi Nyagudi each chipped in 10 points, with Nyagudi scoring eight of his points in the third quarter.
Manitoba briefly cut the deficit to 10 points early in the third quarter after a three-pointer from Nyagudi made it 48-38, and another Nyagudi basket later pulled the Bisons within 57-47. Winnipeg responded with a decisive run late in the quarter and carried a 71-53 advantage into the fourth.
The Wesmen were led by Elijah Mensah, who recorded a double-double with 25 points and 11 rebounds. Alberto Gordo added 18 points and seven rebounds, while Kato Jaro finished with 16 points and nine assists.
Winnipeg shot 51.5 per cent from the floor and forced 15 Manitoba turnovers, converting them into 25 points. The Wesmen also held a 43-32 advantage on the glass.
Manitoba looks to bounce back Sunday in their home opener against the Brandon Bobcats.
Tickets are available here.
