With new faces and renewed energy, SFU Men's Basketball is tipping off the season with momentum heading into the Buchanan Cup. One of the key contributors to this fresh start is point guard
Mikyle Malabuyoc.
Originally from Vancouver, BC, Mikyle returned home last summer to transfer to Simon Fraser University's (SFU) Burnaby campus from Western University. His decision was driven by a desire to be closer to family, compete in NCAA basketball for the final two years of his university career and play under new Head Coach
Barnaby Craddock. It was a difficult call to make in his junior year, but one he felt was right for him.
Mikyle's love for basketball was sparked by family—watching his dad play and sharing in his passion for the game. He began playing at the age of four and went on to represent Vancouver College and DRIVE Basketball club. His high school and club career was decorated with multiple tournament MVPs, two Provincial All-Star awards, and the Vancouver College MVP award in his senior year.
At Western University, Mikyle studied business while competing in U Sports for the Mustangs. He excelled both academically and athletically, earning the Dr. Craig Boydell Award of Excellence in Basketball and Academics. Now studying General Arts at SFU, Mikyle plans to pursue a business degree through the Beedie School of Business.
When asked about the best part of his student experience at SFU so far, Mikyle shared, "Getting to know the team, having practice every day and being a part of a new community. It's all been really welcoming."
With an entirely new coaching staff and eight new players added to the roster, Mikyle is one of many fresh faces helping reshape the program. The team is working to blend returning talent with a dynamic group of newcomers. "I feel like (the team culture) is in the works with everything being so new," added Mikyle. "But we are (in agreement) that we want to build a winning culture, a hard-working culture, and an accountable culture. We have a lot of respect for each other and the coaches."
The coaching staff was a major factor in Mikyle's decision to join SFU. In a short time, he says the coaches have built trust, made themselves approachable and instilled a mindset of determination. "We ride for them, and we know they want what's best for us, which I think has really helped the growth of our team," shared Mikyle.
"Mikyle brings valuable veteran leadership and collegiate experience at the point guard position, which is huge for our team. He's an exceptional passer, and his pass-first mentality has made his transition into our program seamless, allowing him to connect with teammates right away," shared Assistant Coach,
Tyus Jefferson.
Fast on the court and a three-level scorer, Mikyle uses his strengths to his advantage and avoids forcing plays. As point guard, he feels his role on the team is to act as an extension of the coaches and both motivate and communicate with his teammates on the court.
Mikyle's goals for the season include helping the team achieve a winning record and making the playoffs. Individually, he's striving to become an All-Conference Player and rank among the top three in league assists. Long term, he plans to play basketball internationally.
Mikyle remains active in the local basketball community by coaching and training with DRIVE Basketball and LTS Elite Prep. "It's been great, I really enjoy being able to give back," he added.
"Off the court, Mikyle is a dedicated student and a proud local product who brings a sense of community and excitement to our team. We're looking forward to watching his continued growth both as a player and as a person during his time here," shared Coach Jefferson.
Up next for the team is the return of the Buchanan Cup this Saturday, November 15, a rivalry matchup against the University of British Columbia (UBC) Thunderbirds. SFU last conceded the Cup to UBC in 2022, and after a three-year hiatus, the team is eager to win it back. "I've been watching these games since I was a kid, so I'm really looking forward to playing in (the Buchanan Cup) this year," shared Mikyle.
Mikyle encourages all fans to come out and be part of the evening, "A lot of the BC basketball community will be there. It (features) the best two schools in the Lower Mainland and you only get to see us compete every so often."
"It's going to be a great night of basketball."
Don't miss your opportunity to catch Mikyle and the SFU Men's Basketball team in action this Saturday, November 15 at 7:00 pm in the West Gym. Buchanan Cup tickets are required for all students, faculty, staff and fans attending and are exclusively sold online. Lock in your tickets here.
