All-Time NCAA Three-Point Shooter Tyson Signs with Honey Badgers

The Edmonton Stingers of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced Thursday the signing of guard Mike Nuga for the 2026 season. Nuga, a former NCAA Division I athlete at Kent State and UNLV is rejoining the team for a third season. "It's very exciting to have Mike back in an Edmonton Stingers jersey.” said Head Coach and General Manager Jordan Baker. "Mike brings a certain type of infectious energy to our practices, games, and locker room. To have the opportunity to bring him back for his third season was a no-brainer, and we look forward to him contributing in a meaningful way both on the floor and as a leader!" Nuga competed in 9 games for the Stingers in 2025 and has career CEBL averages of 9.9 points per game and 2.2 rebounds per game. The 2025 campaign marked his fourth CEBL season, following his professional debut with the Saskatchewan Rattlers in 2022. Dating back to his first CEBL season, the Toronto native was named the Rattlers Breakthrough Player of the Year as a professional rookie, appearing in 9 games and scoring 6.4 points per game. When asked about his return to Edmonton ahead of the 2026 campaign, Nuga said "Edmonton is home. Simple as that. I love Coach JB and the whole staff and city, hopefully we can bring smiles and wins all summer.” Nuga represented Nigeria at the 2025 Basketball World Cup, appearing in 3 games. To start the 2025 CEBL season, Nuga appeared in 5 games this season with the Vancouver Bandits where he averaged 6 points and 18.8 minutes per game. Currently Nuga is playing in Spain for Tizona Burgos averaging 13.8 points and 2.8 rebounds per game in the Spanish Primera FEB. Nuga also recently completed his third international season playing internationally in Mexico, where he recorded season averages of 15.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game. He also has professional experience as a member of the London Lightning in 2022-23 and 2023-24; Nuga suited up in 39 games averaging 14.2 points per game in the NBCL and BSL with the Lightning.  Prior to turning professional, Nuga was a member of the 2021-22 UNLV Runnin’ Rebels (NCAA DI), playing in 31 games and averaging 6.1 points and 3.0 rebounds. He had transferred from Kent State, where in 2020-21, he put up 17.9 points in 13 games including an NCAA career high 26 points vs Western Michigan on January 9th, 2021. Previous to his DI experience, he played 3 seasons for Eastern Florida JUCO of the NJCAA, making 54 appearances and scoring 11.3 points per game. Originally born in Nigeria, the 6’2” guard grew up in the GTA before heading south of the border where he attended Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School in Indianapolis, Indiana. Nuga will join the Stingers for the start of training camp on May 1st in preparation for the season opener as the Stingers host the Sea Bears at the EXPO Centre at 1:30 PM on May 9th. Tickets are available for as low as $22 per seat and can be purchased online or by contacting the Stingers head office via email ([email protected]) or phone (1-87STINGERS). ###

Schedule features full season livestreaming on CBC Gem; Six regular-season games, Conference Finals and best-of-three Finals to be broadcast nationally on CBC TV

L’intégralité de la saison sera diffusée en direct sur CBC Gem; six matchs de saison régulière, les finales de conférence et la finale au meilleur des trois matchs seront présentés à la télévision nationale de CBC

Professional sports and live entertainment company, REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. (REAL) announced today that its Calgary Surge property of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) will host three marquee games during the 2026 season, with stops in Lethbridge, Red Deer, and a highly anticipated return to the Scotiabank Saddledome during the Calgary Stampede. Following the success of their first neutral-site event in Red Deer, the team continues to expand its reach beyond its home venue at WinSport Event Centre, bringing high-energy professional basketball and unforgettable fan experiences to communities across Alberta. "The Calgary Surge continue to find impactful ways to bring the CEBL experience to Albertans," said CEBL President and CEO Ty Mazereeuw. "These marquee events will deliver exciting pro basketball featuring teams from three provinces, connecting Canadians and their communities through our sport." “Tens of thousands of Albertans have embraced the Surge and the CEBL, and we take seriously the responsibility that comes with that support,” said Jason Ribeiro, Co-Chairman & President of REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. “As live events operators and community builders, we believe these marquee games do more than showcase great basketball — they create energy, drive economic impact, and help strengthen communities across our province. We are deeply grateful for the partnerships we’ve formed with venues, municipalities, and fans that have enabled us to scale the growth of basketball across Canada.” Building on the success of the league’s first neutral-site regular season game, the Calgary Surge will return to Red Deer’s Marchant Crane Centrium for SURGE 2 RED DEER for the second consecutive year. The team will face the Edmonton Stingers on Sunday, May 31 at 4:00 p.m., welcoming fans from across the province. Last year’s Battle of Alberta was the fourth-highest grossing and attended game in franchise history, creating an electric atmosphere and showcasing Red Deer’s growing passion for basketball and arts and culture. “Sport is key to building healthy, vibrant communities and is a driver of sport tourism, as fans and athletes play, stay, shop and dine,” said Honourable Andrew Boitchenko, Minister of Tourism and Sport. “I’d like to offer a warm Alberta welcome to all CEBL teams from across the country, as they visit the host cities of Lethbridge, Red Deer, and Calgary, and best of luck to our Calgary Surge and Edmonton Stingers!” Next up, the Surge will play a marquee game in Lethbridge on Saturday, June 20 at 5:00 p.m., introducing professional basketball to southern Alberta. The Surge will take on the Montreal Alliance in this historic SURGE 2 LETHBRIDGE matchup, marking the team’s first-ever appearance in the city. The event will feature the same high-energy game presentation, entertainment, and community engagement that have defined the Surge experience. “Lethbridge is proud to host the Calgary Surge and the Canadian Elite Basketball League for this historic return of professional basketball to our city,” says Mayor Blaine Hyggen. “It’s an exciting opportunity to showcase Lethbridge’s vibrant community, outstanding facilities and enthusiasm for major sporting events. We’re ready to welcome fans from across the region for a memorable night!” Lastly, in collaboration with the Calgary Stampede, REAL also announced the return of professional basketball to The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth with SURGE 2 STAMPEDE taking place on Thursday, July 9 at 6:30 p.m. at the Scotiabank Saddledome where the Calgary Surge will face the Vancouver Bandits. The Calgary Surge and the Vancouver Bandits had the two best regular season records in the CEBL during the 2025 season and were opponents in the Western Conference Semifinal that saw the Surge victorious and qualify for their third straight Championship Weekend appearance. Game tickets, starting at $44 plus applicable fees and taxes, include admission to Stampede Park for the entire day and night on July 9, giving fans the chance to explore the rides, food, music, and entertainment of the Calgary Stampede. Fans can attend the game and then make their way to the Coca-Cola Stage to catch globally successful alt-rock phenomenon Mother Mother at 9:00pm or Nashville North to see one of Billboard’s top country artists of the decade, Chris Young at 10:15pm. “We see every year through our Rodeo and Chuckwagon and Relay Races how live sport brings people together at the Calgary Stampede,” said Allison Wright, Director of Stampede Programming at the Calgary Stampede. “We’re excited to build on that tradition by welcoming the Calgary Surge back to Stampede 2026 and offering fans an all-in-one experience — from a full day exploring all that the Stampede has to offer, to live professional basketball at the Saddledome, and the chance to keep the celebration going after the final buzzer.” Tickets for all three events are available now via SURGE2REDDEER.ca , SURGE2LETHBRIDGE.ca , and SURGE2STAMPEDE.ca . Fans are encouraged to secure their seats early to ensure the best selection. For more information on the event and ticket options, visit calgarysurge.ca. Additional Quotes Susan Eymann – Executive Director, Lethbridge Sport Council “We are thrilled to welcome the Calgary Surge to Lethbridge. Their approach to using the game to bring people together and share messages of inclusion reflects what we believe in — that everyone is welcome in sport, whether you’re participating or cheering from the sidelines.”  ### REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. & the Calgary Surge REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. (REAL) is a professional sports and live entertainment company co-founded by Jason Ribeiro that owns and operates the Calgary Surge and Saskatoon Mamba Professional Basketball Clubs and REAL Studios. The Calgary Surge tipped off their inaugural season at WinSport Event Centre in May 2023, after originating as the Guelph Nighthawks, one of the founding members of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). The Surge are active members of the community and have participated in a few hundred events (and counting) around the city that connect the team with diverse communities through sport, entertainment, and arts and culture. Over three seasons, the Surge have made three straight CEBL Championship Weekend appearances, were crowned Western Conference Champions in 2023 and 2025, hold the league’s single-game attendance record, and have sent over 6500 deserving kids and families to their games for free. For more information, visit www.calgarysurge.ca.

The Niagara River Lions today announced their full coaching, training, and basketball operations staff for the 2026 season. With a strong mix of returning leadership and new additions, the organization continues to build a cohesive group committed to success on and off the court. Leading the River Lions’ basketball operations in 2026 will be Head Coach and General Manager Kimbal Mackenzie, who transitions into his new role following a standout three-year playing career with the organization from 2023 to 2025. A former team captain, Mackenzie was a key leader both on and off the court, helping to establish the team’s identity and championship culture. Beyond his playing career, Mackenzie has remained deeply involved in the organization, serving as the team’s Community and Brand Ambassador while continuing to build strong connections throughout the Niagara region. He also gained coaching experience during the 2024–25 season taking on the Head Coach position with the Niagara College women’s basketball program. His familiarity with the organization and continued growth in the game position him well to lead the River Lions into their next era. Supporting this transition, former Head Coach and General Manager Victor Raso will remain with the organization as Senior Advisor, Player Personnel & Basketball Operations. Since joining the River Lions in 2017, Raso has played an instrumental role in building the team’s identity and establishing a championship standard that continues to shape the organization today. “I’m very happy with how our coaching staff has come together. I trust everyone on this staff wholeheartedly. I’ve built relationships with all of them over the years, and I know how seriously they work,” said Head Coach and General Manager Kimbal Mackenzie. “We have been in close communication throughout the process of getting our roster together, and are very excited about the opportunity in front of us.” Returning to the basketball staff this season are Andrew Sergi, William Gatchalian, and Jeff Zwolak, who each bring valuable experience, leadership, and continuity to the program. They will be joined by new additions Pablo Vazquez and Jake Babic, strengthening the River Lions bench with fresh perspectives and diverse coaching backgrounds. Zwolak enters his 8th season with the River Lions as Chief of Staff, continuing to provide invaluable leadership and organizational support. His longstanding involvement in the basketball community and commitment to the program make him an integral part of the team’s culture. Sergi returns as Assistant Coach, for his third season with the River Lions bringing over 30 years of experience and a deep understanding of the game. A longtime colleague and mentor within the program, his veteran presence and strategic mindset remain key assets in player development and team success. Gatchalian returns to the River Lions coaching staff for a second year after contributing during the 2025 season. He brings experience from the U SPORTS level, including his role as an Assistant Coach with Brock University , as well as time spent with the Winnipeg Sea Bears . New to the coaching staff, Pablo Vazquez joins the River Lions as an Assistant Coach, bringing experience in player development and game strategy. Vazquez has served as an Assistant Coach with the Leicester Riders in England for 10 years coaching Kimbal Mackenzie from 2021-2024. He adds a fresh perspective to a well-established and collaborative coaching group. Jake Babic returns to the River Lions bench this time as an Assistant Coach after previously playing four seasons with the organization from 2020 to 2024. Since 2023, he has also been involved as a coach with Purpose Driven Mentality (PDM) Basketball, working within the youth development system and helping to mentor the next generation of players. His transition from player to coach adds continuity to the staff and reinforces the organization’s commitment to internal development. The Basketball Operations team will be led by Tyler Vincent, Manager of Business and Basketball Operations, alongside Paolo Buot, Basketball Operations Coordinator. They will be supported by basketball operations interns Ryota Wolff, Jared Colangeli, and Curtis Henderson, who will assist in the day-to-day operations throughout the season. Team training and medical staff includes Head Athletic Therapist, Trevor Kwolek ( Great North Physiotherapy ), Strength and Conditioning Coaches, Matrixx Ferreira and Myles Methner (Iron Performance ), Team Doctor Dr. Vince ( Platinum Medicine ), Team Dentist Dr. Andrew Lee ( Smilee Dental ), Team Optometrist Dr. Marianne Hopkins ( Dr. Hopkins & Associates Optometry ), Team Chiropractor Dr. Mark Lessey, and Team Registered Massage Therapist, Darian Kalogerakos ( Myomove Active Recovery Massage ). The Niagara River Lions continue to prioritize building a strong, unified staff dedicated to excellence, player development, and representing the Niagara Region with pride. With this group in place, the organization looks ahead to the 2026 season with confidence and excitement. ### About the Niagara River Lions The Niagara River Lions are one of the founding franchises of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) and the league’s reigning back-to-back champions (2024 & 2025). Competing out of the Meridian Centre in downtown St. Catharines, from May to August each season, the River Lions proudly represent the twelve municipalities of the Niagara Region, uniting fans through passion, pride, and purpose. Entering their second decade, the River Lions have earned a reputation for championship-caliber performance and community impact, embodying the strength and spirit of Niagara both on and off the court.

Les BlackJacks d’Ottawa de la Ligue élite canadienne de basketball (LECB) ont annoncé aujourd’hui que l’équipe a signé le centre Drew Cisse pour la saison 2026. Le centre de 6 pi 11 po, originaire de San Diego, en Californie, se joint à Ottawa après avoir disputé la dernière saison avec les Blue Coats du Delaware, l’équipe affiliée à la G League des 76ers de Philadelphie. L’entraîneur-chef Justin Mazzulla a indiqué être enthousiaste à l’idée de voir Cisse évoluer au sein de BlackJacks Nation. « Drew “The Stopper” Cisse incarne parfaitement ce que signifie être rapide, intrépide et spectaculaire. Il a un impact énorme sur le match grâce à sa robustesse et à son agressivité des deux côtés du terrain », a déclaré Mazzulla. Lors de la saison 2025-2026 de la G League, Cisse a maintenu des moyennes de 5,6 points et 8 rebonds. Il a amorcé sa carrière professionnelle avec les Clippers de San Diego, l’équipe affiliée à la G League des Clippers de Los Angeles. Après avoir affiché des moyennes de 2,9 points et 5,3 rebonds durant la saison 2024-2025, il a ensuite été acquis par les Blue Coats. Avant de passer chez les professionnels, Cisse a évolué à Western Illinois lors de sa saison senior, où il a affiché des moyennes de 8,48 points et 11 rebonds. Auparavant, il avait joué à Missouri–St. Louis lors de sa saison junior, avec des moyennes de 5,17 points et 6,55 rebonds. Au cours de sa saison senior avec Missouri–St. Louis, il a reçu plusieurs honneurs, dont le titre de joueur défensif de l’année de l’OVC, une sélection au sein de la première équipe d’étoiles de l’OVC ainsi qu’une nomination sur la deuxième équipe All-District de la NABC. Né le 10 janvier 2001, Cisse, âgé de 25 ans, a joué au niveau secondaire à la Rancho Bernardo High School. ###

The Ottawa BlackJacks of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today that the team has signed Center Drew Cisse for the 2026 season. The 6 '11 center originally from San Diego California, will come to Ottawa after playing the last season with the Delaware Blue Coats, the G-League affiliate of the Philadelphia 76ers. Head Coach Justin Mazzulla, has stated he is excited to have Cisse playing in BlackJacks Nation. “Drew ‘The Stopper’ Cisse is a true definition of fast, fearless, and fun. He has such a great impact on the game due to his physicality and aggressiveness on both sides of the ball,” said Mazzulla. In the 2025-26 G-League season, Cisse averaged 5.6 points and 8 rebounds. Cisse started his career with the San Diego Clippers, the G-League affiliate of the Los Angeles Clippers. After averaging 2.9 points and 5.3 rebounds, during the 2024-25 season, before he was acquired by the Blue Coats. Before his professional career, Cisse played at Western Illinois in his senior season, where he averaged 8.48 points and 11 rebounds. Before that he played at Missouri-St. Louis in his junior season, where he averaged 5.17 points and 6.55 rebounds. In his senior season with Missouri St.Louis he achieved many accolades including OVC Defensive Player of the Year, All-OVC First team and NABC All-District Second Team. Born on January 10, 2001, the 25-year-old played his high school years at Rancho Bernardo High School. ###

L’Alliance de Montréal a annoncé aujourd’hui la signature du pivot américain Michael Hughes II, un joueur robuste et expérimenté qui apporte production, efficacité et impact défensif au sein de la formation. Originaire de Liberty au Missouri, Hughes II (6 pi 8 po) se joint à l’Alliance après quatre saisons professionnelles à l’international, notamment en Allemagne, en Hongrie, en Autriche, en Lituanie et en Argentine. À travers ces ligues, il s’est bâti une réputation de joueur fiable dans la raquette, reconnu pour son travail au rebond, sa protection du cercle et son efficacité offensive. Lors de la saison 2025–2026 avec les SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt, dans la ligue ProA en Allemagne, Hughes II a maintenu des moyennes de 12,1 points, 7,1 rebonds et 1,7 passe décisive en 23,1 minutes par match, tout en affichant un taux de réussite de 55,0 % au tir. Il a signé plusieurs solides performances au cours de la saison, dont un match dominant de 23 points et 12 rebonds, tout en ayant un impact constant des deux côtés du terrain. En 2023–2024, Hughes a poursuivi son parcours en Argentine, en Allemagne et en Lituanie. À travers ces ligues, il a affiché des moyennes de 9,2 points, 5,7 rebonds et 1,8 passe décisive par match, tout en conservant une excellente efficacité au tir et en contribuant dans différents rôles. « Je suis très enthousiaste à l’idée de me joindre à l’Alliance de Montréal et de jouer devant des partisans aussi passionnés », a déclaré Hughes II. « J’ai une grande fierté d’apporter de l’énergie, un style de jeu physique et à faire tout ce qu’il faut pour aider l’équipe à gagner. J’ai hâte de me mettre au travail. » Avant de faire le saut chez les professionnels, Hughes II a évolué à l’université Duquesne, où il s’est imposé comme un joueur intérieur constant dans la conférence Atlantic 10. À sa dernière saison, il a maintenu des moyennes de 10,8 points et 7,9 rebonds par match, offrant une présence fiable près du panier. « Michael est un joueur qui apporte beaucoup d’expérience, de robustesse et de polyvalence à notre groupe », a déclaré le copropriétaire et directeur général de l’Alliance, Joel Anthony. « Il a fait ses preuves dans plusieurs ligues et sait comment avoir un impact constant sur le jeu. Sa présence physique et son jeu dans la peinture seront des atouts importants pour notre secteur intérieur. » Hughes II devrait ajouter de la profondeur, du jeu physique et une présence défensive importante à l’alignement de l’Alliance en vue de la saison 2026. -REPMTL - À propos de l’Alliance de Montréal L’Alliance de Montréal est une équipe professionnelle de basketball évoluant dans la Ligue élite canadienne de basketball (LECB), la principale ligue estivale de basketball au Canada. L’organisation s’engage à offrir un basketball de haut niveau ainsi qu’une expérience engageante aux partisans de Montréal et de partout au Québec. Les billets pour la saison 2026 sont maintenant en vente. L’Alliance disputera son match d’ouverture local le 15 mai à 19 h 30 à l’Auditorium de Verdun face à Scarborough. Pour plus d’information ou pour vous procurer des billets, visitez basketmtl.ca.

The Montreal Alliance announced today the signing of American center Michael Hughes II, a physical and experienced frontcourt presence who brings proven production, efficiency, and defensive impact to the roster. Hughes, a 6-foot-8 native of Liberty, Missouri, joins the Alliance following four professional seasons competing internationally in Germany, Hungary, Austria, Lithuania, and Argentina. Across those leagues, he has built a reputation as a dependable interior player, known for his rebounding, rim protection, and efficient scoring. During the 2025–26 season with SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt in Germany’s ProA league, Hughes averaged 12.1 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 23.1 minutes per game while shooting 55.0% from the field. He delivered multiple strong performances throughout the season, including a dominant 23-point, 12-rebound outing, while consistently impacting the game on both ends of the floor. In 2023–24, Hughes showcased his versatility by competing across Argentina, Germany, and Lithuania. Across those leagues, he averaged 9.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, maintaining efficient shooting while contributing in multiple roles. “I’m excited for the opportunity to join the Montreal Alliance and compete in front of such a passionate fan base,” said Hughes. “I take pride in bringing energy, physicality, and doing whatever it takes to help the team win. I’m ready to get to work.” Before turning professional, Hughes played at Duquesne University, where he developed into a reliable and efficient frontcourt player in the Atlantic 10. Over his collegiate career, he was recognized for his consistent interior scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking ability. In his senior season, he averaged 10.8 points and 7.9 rebounds per game, providing a steady presence for the Dukes. “Michael is a player who brings toughness and versatility to our group,” said Alliance Co-Owner and General Manager Joel Anthony. “He’s proven himself across multiple leagues and understands how to impact the game consistently. His physicality and presence in the paint will be a strong addition to our frontcourt.” Hughes is expected to add depth, physicality, and strong defense to the Alliance frontcourt as the team prepares for the 2026 season. ### About the Montreal Alliance The Montreal Alliance is a professional basketball team competing in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), Canada’s premier summer basketball league. The organization is committed to delivering high-level basketball and an engaging experience for fans in Montreal and across Quebec. Tickets for the 2026 season are now on sale. The Alliance will kick off its home season on May 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the Verdun Auditorium against Scarborough. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit basketmtl.ca.