Kyle Desmarais brings the ball up the court for the Highlanders.

The Cape Breton Highlanders professional basketball team completed their season on Sunday afternoon when they visited the Saint John Riptide.

The Highlanders were coming off back-to-back games in Sydney on Friday and Saturday evening, and travelled early on Sunday morning to arrive in Saint John for the game. It was a tied midway through the first quarter, with the lead being exchanged several times until that point. Malik Story nailed a three-pointer at the buzzer to give the Highlanders the lead, 26 - 25, at the end of the first quarter. 

The Riptide were able to take the lead early in the second quarter, but the Highlanders were resilient in making sure the score stayed close. The Riptide quickened their pace against a tired Highlanders team, allowing the Riptide to lead at the half, 58 - 52.

The Riptide played aggressively and tightened up defensively to extend their lead midway through the third quarter. The Highlanders went on a run near the end of the quarter to bring the score close once again, but the Riptide held the lead at the quarter buzzer, 81 - 76.

The Highlanders found rebounds, while the Riptide forced turnovers and were able to convert them into the points. The Highlanders continued to put on the pressure and find timely baskets, but the Riptide were able to put this one away, 116 - 101.

The Highlanders were led by Bruce Massey with 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 assists. Jamal Reynolds added a career-high 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists. Chris Braswell hit for 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists. Cordell Jeanty added 11 points and 6 rebounds.

The Riptide were led by Tyquane Goard with 25 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 assists. Aaron Redpath added 20 points and 4 assists.  Kenny Otieno hit for 19 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists.

The Highlanders finish the season with 13 wins and 27 losses.

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