The Montréal Alliance’s perfect season came to an end Wednesday night at Canada Life Centre, falling 92-89 to the Winnipeg Sea Bears in a pulsating thriller that showcased both teams’ championship mettle. Despite the setback, the Alliance (4-1) demonstrated remarkable resilience, nearly completing a stunning comeback from a 19-point fourth-quarter deficit.

Character Revealed in Defeat

What started as a nightmare scenario transformed into a testament to the Alliance’s championship DNA. Trailing 78-59 entering the final frame, Montréal unleashed a furious rally that brought them within one possession multiple times in the game’s final minutes.

The comeback was fueled by clutch shooting and defensive intensity that had defined their undefeated start. Quincy Guerrier led the charge with several clutch baskets, including a momentum-shifting three-pointer that cut the deficit to just two points. Tavian Dunn-Martin’s step-back three in target time electrified the Alliance bench and proved they wouldn’t surrender quietly.

Dunn-Martin’s Gritty Performance

Despite facing constant pressure from Winnipeg’s defense, Dunn-Martin delivered another solid outing with timely scoring and playmaking. His leadership became most evident during the fourth-quarter surge, where his basketball IQ and clutch gene nearly authored one of the season’s most remarkable comebacks.

The point guard’s court vision remained sharp throughout, finding open teammates and creating quality scoring opportunities even as the Sea Bears focused their defensive attention on limiting his impact.

Guerrier Answers the Call

Quincy Guerrier rose to the occasion when his team needed him most, providing crucial scoring and rebounding throughout the contest. His three-point shooting kept the Alliance within striking distance during their rally, while his defensive presence helped limit Winnipeg’s offensive flow in critical moments.

The Montréal native showed no signs of intimidation playing in hostile territory, embracing the challenge with the poise expected from a veteran performer.

Lessons in Excellence

While the loss stings, this game revealed essential qualities about the Alliance's character. Their refusal to surrender, even facing a seemingly insurmountable deficit, speaks to the championship mentality head coach Jermaine Small has instilled.

The experience of playing in such a hostile environment while battling adversity will prove invaluable as the season progresses. Championship teams often point to difficult losses as defining moments that prepared them for future success.

Looking Ahead



The Alliance will head out West Saturday night to close out a three-game road trip in Vancouver.