TORONTO,ON–Basketball, like any other sport is a game of multiple facets. So much can be learned through open communication and shared knowledge, which is exactly how the game has evolved in the last two decades.

For instance, the ‘Euro step” can be seen used in practically every game, whether played in New York City, Toronto, or even China.

It was a beautiful sight to see a team from the other side of the world in attendance, with great crowd support! The multiculturalism was evident through every chant and cheer. I am sold that any country in the world can come to the city and there will be fans waiting, this is how diverse Toronto is.

The Chinese Junior National Team (U19) travelled to Toronto for the Ryerson University National Invitational, taking on the Rams in their opening game. A packed house at Coca-Cola Court was entertained with a great game that featured a talented Chinese point guard, Zhao Ji Wei, who registered a game-high 24 points.

Despite a strong performance from Ji Wei, the Rams were able to close out Team China in the fourth quarter for the 79-65 victory.

“They can really play ball, there’s no doubt about that. They are really good, well coached and very disciplined,” Aaron Best told NPH.

“Honestly, we didn’t know much about them coming in, we had to play it by ear and feel them out…they are definitely a good team.”

Best posted 19 points, five rebounds including two big time threes in the fourth quarter to put the game to bed.

“When I looked into the crowd I so so many red shirts, that speaks so much to their culture and support. As Canadians, we can learn a lot from that and something we are trying to build here to,” continued Best.

Jahmal Jones lead Ryerson with 20 points, seven rebounds and eight assists, flirting with a triple double. The point guard match up between Jones and Ji Wei was fun to watch as one player attacked, the other countered.

A very interesting combination of teams in this year’s RUNIT as HS, CCAA, CIS & international teams are represented.

In the second evening game, McGill edged UPEI in a tightly contest overtime game. Vincent Dufort registered a big double-double of 19 points and 16 rebounds.

NPH Top Performers

Ryerson

• Jahmal Jones- 20 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists
• Aaron Best- 19 points, 5 rebounds
• Jordon Gauthier– 15 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists
• Bjorn Michaelsen– 10 points, 14 rebounds

RUNIT Results

High School Game – St. Marguerite d’Youville 43 vs. REDA 58 Boxscore
Game 1: McMaster 76 vs. Humber 66 Boxscore
Game 2: Guelph 85 vs. Centennial 74 Boxscore
High School Game – St. John’s-Kilmarnock 66 vs. Blessed Mother Teresa 75Boxscore
Game 3: Ryerson 79 vs. China U19 65 Boxscore
Game 4: McGill 73 vs. UPEI 68 OT Boxscore