Canadian Elite Basketball League Re-Introduces Saskatoon Mamba Franchise

February 4, 2026

One of the league’s original franchises gets a bold new brand identity, new home venue, and new ownership group.

The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) unveiled its reinvigorated Saskatchewan franchise at a press conference Wednesday at Merlis Belsher Place in Saskatoon. The rebranded, Saskatoon Mamba (previously Saskatchewan Rattlers) will return for their eighth season in May, with both SaskTel Centre and Merlis Belsher Place hosting games. Jason Ribeiro and Usman Tahir Jutt were introduced as the team’s ownership group. The business and community leaders also operate the CEBL’s Calgary Surge.


"This is a defining moment for basketball in Saskatchewan and for our league,” said CEBL President Tyler Mazereeuw. “The Canadian Elite Basketball League is national in reach, but community-driven at its core. Revitalizing the Saskatoon franchise reflects that commitment. Jason and Usman have proven their ability to unite communities through sport and art in Calgary, and they are bringing that same passion to ensure the Saskatoon Mamba becomes a lasting source of regional pride and fuels our league’s continued nationwide momentum."


The Saskatchewan Rattlers were the inaugural champions of Canada’s professional basketball league in 2019. Since then, the CEBL has grown to over 4.1 million Canadian fans, representing 14 per cent of the population and an increase of 57 per cent since 2022. Built by Canadians, for Canadians, the league strikes a unique balance between global innovation and deep local connection, attracting a young, digitally savvy, sports-loving audience, with more than half of fans under the age of 34. This fast-growing, engaged fan base reflects the CEBL’s momentum and provides a strong foundation for the next chapter of professional basketball in Saskatchewan.


“I am deeply grateful to the Saskatoon community and the club’s passionate fanbase for welcoming us,” said Jason Ribeiro, Co-Chairman of the Saskatoon Mamba. “The Mamba is our second investment in a CEBL community — and our next step in stewarding the game of basketball across Canada, from coast to coast to coast. We will work every day to reflect, entertain, and unite the city of Saskatoon."


“Basketball has a special place in Saskatoon, and our community has shown how deeply we love and support the game,” said Mayor of Saskatoon Cynthia Block. “As we turn the page and welcome a new ownership group, we do so with pride, excitement, and a continued commitment to celebrating professional basketball in our city.”


2024 Olympian, three-time FIBA 3x3 Women's Series Champion, and proud daughter of Saskatchewan/Treaty 6, Paige Crozon revealed the team’s name and logo to the public for the first time. The reinvigorated Saskatoon Mamba brand was designed byREAL Studios, a creative agency founded by Ribeiro that creates accessible culture-driven content and materials that move audiences. 


Mamba maintains the franchise’s identity as a venomous snake with a modern look, feel, and sound, and is a deliberate acknowledgement of the franchise’s origins as the “Rattlers.” The icon and typeface reflect the same curvature and bend present in the City of Saskatoon’s logo, a nod to the city’s place along the South Saskatchewan River. The team’s primary colour is a bold and vibrant purple, with more colourways to be revealed soon. The club also announced that all 2026 season ticket members will receive an official limited edition New Era 9TWENTY Adjustable Hat.


The 2026 season will see the team play at both SaskTel Centre, the team’s home for the last 7 years, and Merlis Belsher Place. In total, 7 regular season games will be played at Merlis Belsher Place (June 15, July 3, July 7, July 15 – Rattlers Heritage Night, July 21, July 23, and August 3) and 5 regular season games will be played at SaskTel Centre (May 14, May 29, May 31, June 24, July 29).


Merlis Belsher Place is a 120,000 square-foot multisport and live events facility on the University of Saskatchewan campus in Saskatoon operated by Nustadia Recreation Inc. Opened in 2018, it provides an arena with a centre-hung video board, capacity for 2,750 spectators, and houses the two official NBA-size Ron and Jane Graham Gymnasiums. Merlis Belsher Place was named in honour of USask alumnus Merlis Belsher. The facility has hosted the prestigious Grand Slam of Curling, Canadian National Ball Hockey Championships, Saskatchewan Roughriders Winter Classic, Saskatoon Folk Fest, and many other events. Merlis Belsher Place is also a year-round community sport and recreation hub for thousands of Saskatoon children and newcomers.


The franchise will continue building on a foundation that centres community impact, enrichment for youth and families, and a modern, culturally informed approach to sport and entertainment.


The Saskatoon Mamba’s 2026 season will tip off on May 14th, with full schedule and venue information available atsaskatoonmamba.ca/schedule. Season ticket deposits are now being accepted at saskatoonmamba.ca. Fans can secure priority access to the best available seats and preferred pricing by placing a non-refundable $50 deposit per ticket, which will be credited toward their Season Ticket Membership during the seat selection process.


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About the Saskatoon Mamba
The Saskatoon Mamba (previously Saskatchewan Rattlers) tipped off their inaugural season at SaskTel Centre in May 2019 and went on to win the inaugural Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) championship. The Mamba are active members of the community, participating in countless events that connect the team with diverse communities through sport, entertainment, and arts and culture. The team has restored over 100 basketball nets across the city to make basketball more accessible to youth. For more information, visit saskatoonmamba.ca.

Scarborough Shooting Stars Sign Forward Simms for 2026 Season

May 6, 2026
The Scarborough Shooting Stars announced today the signing of forward Aamir Simms for the 2026 season. Simms, a 6’8 forward from Palmyra, brings versatility, toughness, and valuable professional experience to Scarborough’s frontcourt. Known for his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor, Simms combines size, skill, and basketball IQ with the ability to score inside, stretch the floor, and defend multiple positions. Simms joins the 7 experience across the NBA G League and Top Level European Leagues, where he has continued to develop into a reliable two-way forward. Competing against high-level talent, Simms has earned a reputation for his physicality, consistency, and team-first approach. His experience in professional systems and ability to contribute in a variety of roles make him an important addition to Scarborough’s 2026 roster. Simms completed an outstanding collegiate career with the Clemson Tigers, where he became one of the most accomplished players in program history.  During the 2020–21 season, Simms earned All-ACC First Team honours after averaging 13.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game while leading Clemson to an NCAA Tournament appearance. He also helped guide the Tigers to one of the most successful seasons in program history, highlighted by victories over multiple ranked opponents. Across four seasons at Clemson, Simms developed into one of the top forwards in the Atlantic Coast Conference, known for his inside-out scoring ability, rebounding presence, and defensive versatility. Following college, Simms continued his career professionally, gaining experience in the NBA G League and overseas competition. His exposure to multiple styles of play has further strengthened his versatility and readiness to make an immediate impact. Simms’ combination of size, strength, and skill gives the Shooting Stars a valuable frontcourt presence. His ability to defend multiple positions, rebound at a high level, and contribute offensively in a variety of ways makes him a major asset heading into the 2026 season. With Simms joining the lineup, Scarborough continues to build a balanced and competitive roster ready to contend for a championship in the 2026 CEBL season. ###

La LECB et CBC Sports dévoilent leur équipe de diffusion pour la saison 2026

May 6, 2026
La diffusion nationale débutera le 9 mai sur les ondes de CBC et de CBC Gem

Playmaker Dunn-Martin Signs With Saskatoon Mamba For 2026 Season

May 6, 2026
The Saskatoon Mamba of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today the team has signed American guard Tavian Dunn-Martin for the 2026 season. A dynamic scorer and high-level playmaker, Dunn-Martin joins the Mamba following an impressive professional career across Europe and the CEBL, most recently suiting up for the Montreal Alliance. The Huntington, West Virginia native returns to the CEBL after establishing himself as one of the league’s most explosive offensive guards. During his most recent stint, Dunn-Martin emerged as a focal point of the Alliance offense, averaging around 18–19 points per game while leading the team in assists. Known for his ability to control tempo, create off the dribble, and score from all three levels, he brings a proven offensive skillset and leadership presence to the Mamba backcourt. Prior to his time in Canada, Dunn-Martin built a strong professional résumé overseas, competing in top leagues across France, the ABA League, and Slovenia. He most recently starred with Donar Groningen, where he averaged 18.5 points and 5.5 assists per game in the regular season before elevating his production in the playoffs, further solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer. Dunn-Martin’s professional success follows a standout collegiate career that saw him finish at Florida Gulf Coast University, where he averaged over 21 points and six assists in his final season. He also spent time at Akron and Duquesne, earning Atlantic 10 Sixth Man of the Year honours and establishing himself as one of the top three-point shooters in Duquesne program history.  ###

CEBL And CBC Sports Unveil Broadcast Team For 2026 Season

May 5, 2026
National broadcast coverage begins May 9 on CBC and CBC Gem

Honey Badgers Sign G League Guard Hunter

May 5, 2026
The Brampton Honey Badgers of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced Tuesday that they have signed highly skilled guard Tyrese Hunter, who is fresh off his first professional campaign in the NBA G League. Hunter is about a year removed from his incredible four-year college career with the University of Memphis, University of Texas, and Iowa State University. He immediately took his talents to the NBA G League where he played with three different teams throughout the season, and averaged 5.5 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 13.8 minutes per game. “Tyrese plays with great pace and has the ability to create shots for himself and others,” said Honey Badgers General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations Jermaine Anderson. “He will be a key piece of our talented guard rotation. His hunger and tenacity make him a perfect fit for our culture, and we’re excited to welcome him to the Honey Badgers family.” Hunter spent his first professional season with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers (Houston Rockets G League affiliate), Raptors 905 (Toronto Raptors G League affiliate), and South Bay Lakers (Los Angeles Lakers G League affiliate), where he played under current Honey Badgers Head Coach Alex Cerda. He posted a career-high 26 points with the Vipers with six made threes and four assists November 29 versus the Osceola Magic. He had an incredibly consistent career through university, averaging between 10 and 14 points each season. He logged a career-high 13.7 points per game as a senior with Memphis and earned spots on the All-AAC First Team and ACC All-Newcomer Team en route to an AAC Tournament Championship. “We’re thrilled to welcome Tyrese Hunter to our program,” said Honey Badgers Head Coach Alex Cerda. “Having coached Tyrese before, I’ve had a front-row seat to his growth and the way he approaches the game on a daily basis. He’s a competitor who plays with pace, makes sound decisions with the ball, and consistently puts pressure on the defense.Tyrese has a strong feel for the game—he knows how to organize a team, create advantages, and deliver in key moments.” In all four collegiate seasons, Hunter has made the NCAA Tournament. He had multiple standout performances including 19 points while going 3-for-3 from beyond the arc in the Sweet Sixteen with Texas in a win versus Xavier University as a sophomore, and 23 points with seven made threes and five steals in an opening round victory versus LSU as a freshman with the Cyclones. The Brampton Honey Badgers will begin their season with two home games on Friday, May 15 and Sunday, May 17 versus the Ottawa BlackJacks and Calgary Surge, respectively. Click here to get your Honey Badgers tickets today, starting at only $20 per seat. ### About the Brampton Honey Badgers One of the original franchises of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), the 2022 CEBL Champion Brampton Honey Badgers proudly call the CAA Centre home. The Brampton front office and basketball operations department bring NBA, NBA G League, national team, NCAA and major international pro league experience to the franchise. With a vision of promoting Brampton grassroots basketball and local businesses through community and corporate engagement, the Honey Badgers will leverage the explosion of basketball as a vehicle for innovation and change. For more information visit honeybadgers.ca .

Bandits Re-Sign All-Time Games Played Leader Notice

May 5, 2026
The Vancouver Bandits have re-signed veteran guard Duane Notice for his fourth consecutive Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) season with BC’s professional basketball team. A 6-foot-3 guard from Toronto, Ont., Notice debuted with the club in 2023 and has contributed leadership, grit, and clutch performances to the roster during his time. He holds several franchise records, including the most regular season games played (58) and the most Target Score game winners (7). Additionally, he is ranked second all-time in both total assists and steals, and fifth all-time in total rebounds. “Duane Notice is the heartbeat of our culture. He is a relentless leader, a clutch shot-maker, and a defensive tone setter who sacrifices his body,” said head coach and general manager Kyle Julius. “Duane shows up early, stays late, and drives everything we do on and off the floor. We expect another huge summer from Duane, and we know he will bring it like he always does.” Notice appeared in 18 regular season games in 2025, including nine starts, where he averaged 7.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 25.4 minutes per game. During his CEBL off-seasons, Notice has played for the Sudbury Five of the Basketball Super League (BSL), where he was most recently named 2026 BSL Finals MVP. In the 2025-26 BSL season, Notice averaged 14.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 0.8 steals, and 36.9 minutes across 28 games played. Prior to the Bandits, Notice has previous CEBL experience with the Brampton Honey Badgers (formerly known as Hamilton) in 2019 and 2020 and spent two seasons with the Toronto Raptors’ NBA G League affiliate, the Raptors 905, between 2018 and 2020. Internationally, Notice has represented Team Canada at six different tournaments and has played a combined total of 30 games throughout his career for both the junior men’s and senior men’s national teams. Over a five-year university career, Notice starred at the University of South Carolina where he is the school’s all-time leader in games played with 138. He was named the SEC’s Sixth Man of the Year during the 2015-16 season and helped lead the Gamecocks to an appearance in the NCAA Men’s Final Four in 2017. Fans will get their first chance to watch the Bandits’ new-look roster in a charitable preseason game on Saturday, May 9 at 5:00 p.m. at Envision Financial Court at Langley Events Centre when the club faces the Sikh Warriors from ESPN’s The Basketball Tournament. The Bandits open the 2026 CEBL season on Thursday, May 14 on the road in Saskatoon before coming home for its Home Opener against the Edmonton Stingers on Friday, May 22 at 7:00 p.m. PT at Envision Financial Court at Langley Events Centre. All CEBL regular season games including playoffs will be live-streamed on the CEBL’s OTT platform, CEBL+, the CEBL Mobile app, the CBC Gem app and the CBC Sports YouTube channel. Marquee games will air nationally on CBC TV. ### About the Vancouver Bandits: The Vancouver Bandits are British Columbia’s professional basketball team. As the westernmost club in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), the Bandits offer an entertainment experience that combines a fast-paced game day atmosphere with a presentation of some of Canada’s top professional athletes within a world-class venue at Envision Financial Court at Langley Events Centre (LEC), while also being committed to growing the game of basketball by fostering meaningful community connections through youth programming, events, and partnerships.

Canadian Forward Mitchell Signs With Scarborough Shooting Stars

May 5, 2026
The Scarborough Shooting Stars announced today the signing of Canadian forward Frank Mitchell for the 2026 season. Mitchell, a 6’8 forward from Toronto, brings physicality, rebounding dominance, and a strong interior presence to Scarborough’s frontcourt. Known for his strength, motor, and ability to control the paint, Mitchell adds a powerful two-way dimension to the Shooting Stars lineup.  Mitchell enters the professional ranks following a highly productive collegiate career, where he developed into one of the most impactful big men at the NCAA mid-major level. His consistent double-double production and ability to anchor the paint position him to make an immediate impact in the CEBL. Mitchell most recently competed with the St. Bonaventure Bonnies, where he emerged as one of the top forwards in the Atlantic 10 Conference. During the 2025–26 season, Mitchell averaged 16.3 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game while shooting an efficient 55.6% from the field, ranking among the conference leaders in rebounding and double-doubles. His ability to dominate the glass and finish efficiently around the rim made him a focal point of his team’s success. Prior to his time at St. Bonaventure, Mitchell played for the Minnesota Golden Gophers and the Canisius Golden Griffins, showcasing steady growth throughout his NCAA journey. Throughout his college career, Mitchell built a reputation as a relentless rebounder and interior scorer, consistently producing double-doubles and impacting games with his physical presence and effort. As a Toronto native, Mitchell represents the continued growth of Canadian basketball talent competing at the highest levels. His development through the NCAA system highlights his work ethic and progression into a pro-ready forward capable of contributing immediately. Mitchell’s size, strength, and rebounding ability give the Shooting Stars a dominant presence in the paint. His ability to control the boards, finish inside, and provide second-chance opportunities makes him a valuable addition to the roster. With Mitchell joining the lineup, Scarborough continues to build a strong, physical, and competitive team ready to contend for a championship in the 2026 CEBL season. ###

L’Alliance de Montréal signe Jalin Anderson, un arrière polyvalent en provenance de la Finlande

May 4, 2026
L’Alliance de Montréal a annoncé aujourd’hui la signature de l’arrière américain Jalin Anderson, ajoutant un contributeur offensif fiable et un joueur capable d’avoir un impact des deux côtés du terrain en vue de la saison 2026 de la LECB. Anderson, un arrière de 6 pi 3 po originaire de Jackson, au Tennessee, arrive à Montréal après une première saison professionnelle solide avec les Bisons de Nilan, dans la Korisliiga finlandaise. Il y a maintenu des moyennes de 14,4 points, 3,7 rebonds et 3,2 passes décisives par match, tout en affichant un pourcentage de 44 % au tir. Utilisé comme partant régulier, il s’est rapidement imposé comme un joueur fiable et influent. « J’ai très hâte de me joindre à Montréal et de compétitionner à un haut niveau, a déclaré Anderson. Je suis fier de pouvoir avoir un impact de différentes façons et je suis prêt à apporter de l’énergie, de l’intensité et une mentalité gagnante à l’équipe. » Avant de faire le saut chez les professionnels, Anderson a connu un parcours universitaire solide à Loyola Marymount, Ball State et Incarnate Word. Il s’est graduellement imposé comme meneur principal et leader offensif, notamment avec deux saisons consécutives de plus de 15 points par match à Ball State et Incarnate Word. En 2024-2025, il a maintenu des moyennes de 15,0 points et 5,0 passes décisives, démontrant sa capacité à diriger le jeu et à créer des occasions pour ses coéquipiers. « Jalin est un compétiteur qui apporte un bel équilibre à notre brigade arrière, a déclaré le copropriétaire et directeur général Joel Anthony. Il a continué de progresser à chaque étape de son parcours, et son cheminement nous donne confiance en ce qu’il pourra apporter à notre équipe cette saison. » Avec l’arrivée d’Anderson, l’Alliance ajoute un garde polyvalent à son alignement en vue de la saison 2026. ### 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 produit 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.match d’ouverture15 mai à 19 h 30 à l’Auditorium de Verdunvisitez le basketmtl.ca

Montreal Alliance Sign Tennessee Playmaker Anderson

May 4, 2026
The Montreal Alliance announced today the signing of American guard Jalin Anderson, bringing a proven offensive contributor and two-way competitor to the backcourt ahead of the 2026 CEBL season. Anderson, a 6-foot-3 guard from Jackson, Tennessee, arrives fresh off a standout rookie professional season with the Nilan Bisons in Finland's Korisliiga, one of Europe's most competitive mid-tier leagues, where he averaged 14.4 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game on 44% shooting from the field. A consistent starter from day one, he quickly established himself as a reliable player of impact in a league known for its physical, structured play. “I’m excited for the opportunity to join Montreal and compete at a high level,” said Anderson. “I take pride in being able to impact the game in different ways, and I’m ready to bring energy, toughness, and a winning mindset to the team.” Prior to turning pro, Anderson built a strong collegiate career across Loyola Marymount, Ball State, and Incarnate Word. He developed into a primary ball-handler and offensive leader, highlighted by back-to-back seasons averaging over 15 points per game at Ball State and Incarnate Word. During the 2024–25 season, he averaged 15.0 points and 5.0 assists per game, showcasing his ability to control the pace and create for others. “Jalin is a competitor who brings great balance to our backcourt,” said Co-Owner and General Manager Joel Anthony. “He’s continued to grow his game at every level, and his success as a contributor gives us real confidence in what he'll bring to our team this season.” With Anderson in the backcourt rotation, the Alliance adds a versatile playmaker to the lineup as they build toward a competitive 2026 campaign. ### 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 the Scarborough Shooting Stars. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit basketmtl.ca .

Vancouver Bandits Re-Sign Local Talent Mutabazi

May 2, 2026
The Vancouver Bandits announced Saturday that Trinity Western Spartans alumnus David Mutabazi has re-signed with the club for the 2026 Canadian Elite Basketball League season (CEBL). The 6-foot-5 guard joined the Bandits as a Developmental Player during the 2025 season where he was selected 30th overall in the CEBL Draft, appearing in nine games with three starts. Mutabazi made an immediate impact, logging 29 minutes and finishing with a game-high plus-44 as a starter in his professional debut on May 15, 2025 in a 106-65 win against the Saskatchewan Rattlers. “David was a complete surprise last season. His defensive instincts and relentless effort elevated our locker room culture,” said head coach and general manager Kyle Julius. “This year, we are counting on David to do even more. He is one of our few returning players and we expect him to bring that toughness, intensity, and now leadership to push us forward.” Mutabazi recently finished a four-year collegiate basketball career at Trinity Western University, where he averaged 13.9 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game across 83 games dating back to 2022. During the 2025-26 season, he averaged 9.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.6 assists across 17 games, placing him in the top five in those categories for the Spartans. Mutabazi will be reunited with fellow TWU product Jack Vandenberg on the Bandits training camp roster, which begins on Tuesday, May 5. Born in Kirinda, Rwanda, Mutabazi recently represented his country at the 2025 FIBA AfroBasket tournament. In his international debut, he averaged 5.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.7 assists while playing 19.1 minutes per game across three games as its sixth man off the bench. Fans will get their first chance to watch the Bandits’ new-look roster in a charitable preseason game on Saturday, May 9 at 5:00 p.m. at Envision Financial Court at Langley Events Centre when the club faces the Sikh Warriors from ESPN’s The Basketball Tournament. Preseason tickets are on sale at this link , with proceeds benefitting the Bandits Community Foundation. The Bandits open the 2026 CEBL season on Thursday, May 14 on the road in Saskatoon before coming home for its Home Opener against the Edmonton Stingers on Friday, May 22 at 7:00 p.m. PT at Envision Financial Court at Langley Events Centre. A full game schedule can be viewed here . Bandits Single Game Tickets and additional 2026 ticket options can be purchased here . All CEBL regular season games including playoffs will be live-streamed on the CEBL’s OTT platform, CEBL+, the CEBL Mobile app, the CBC Gem app and the CBC Sports YouTube channel. Marquee games will air nationally on CBC TV. More information is available at thebandits.ca and @vancouverbandits on Instagram and TikTok, as well as @vancitybandits on Facebook and Twitter. ### About the Vancouver Bandits: The Vancouver Bandits are British Columbia’s professional basketball team. As the westernmost club in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), the Bandits offer an entertainment experience that combines a fast-paced game day atmosphere with a presentation of some of Canada’s top professional athletes within a world-class venue at Envision Financial Court at Langley Events Centre (LEC), while also being committed to growing the game of basketball by fostering meaningful community connections through youth programming, events, and partnerships.