Shooting Stars look to extend win streak as they host BlackJacks
June 13, 2024
Zulfi Sheikh
The Scarborough Shooting Stars (3-2) welcome the Ottawa BlackJacks (1-4) to the Pan Am Sports Centre on Thursday night for the first of three regular season matchups between the Eastern Conference rivals.
Live coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET and fans can catch all the action on CEBL+ powered by BetVictor, TSN+ and on the CEBL mobile app available for iOS and Android devices.
The mid-week affair will be the first time Scarborough and Ottawa are facing off since a playoff bout in the Eastern Conference Semifinal last season. The No. 2 and 3 seeds in 2023 enter Thursday on opposite ends of the conference standings so far in 2024.
Scarborough has been on an upward trend, winners of three in a row after an 0-2 start to the season. The defending champs have hit a stride and it’s led them into a tie for first place in the East.
Their most recent victory came against another Ontario rival as they handled business against the Brampton Honey Badgers, walking into the CAA Centre and coming out with an eight-point victory.
It wasn’t the prettiest offensive effort, as Scarborough put up a season-low 81 points, but they proved yet again that their playstyle can overcome even the slowest of starts.
Despite opening the game 0-12 from the field, the Shooting Stars swung momentum back in their favour largely thanks to their production from beyond the arc. Scarborough ended up hitting 13 threes in the contest (+8) on a 37 per cent clip, proving why they lead the league in three-point makes (11.3) and are second in percentage (39.3).
Outside of their proficiency from distance, a core component of Scarborough’s win streak has been the impressive play of its second unit. The Shooting Stars’ bench is averaging 36.6 points per game this season and has outscored opponents by 78 points this year.
Devoe Joseph put up a season-high 17 points off the pine in Scarborough’s victory over Brampton, leading a 40-point outing for the second unit.
On the other side, the BlackJacks are fourth in the East and are hoping to avoid their second losing streak before the mid-way point of the season. After starting 0-3, Ottawa picked up a one-point win over the Montréal Alliance in the first of a home-and-home set, before losing 104-89 on Tuesday.
The 15-point defeat was the BlackJacks’ third double-digit loss of the season as Ottawa has given up the second-most points per game (94.8) of any team in the CEBL. Much of their defensive woes have been on account of a lack of interior strength.
Without a traditional paint presence like that of Deng Adel or Zena Edosomwan (both players eventually rejoining the BlackJacks at some point this season), Ottawa has been noticeably undersized at the rim -- evidence by their bottom of the league rebounding rate (31.8 rebounds per game). The BlackJacks gave up 46 rebounds (-14) to Montréal on Tuesday, 12 of which came on the offensive end, as the Alliance put up an extra 11 shots as a result.
It wasn’t all bad for the BlackJacks however, as they got a couple of standout performances they’ll hope can repeat and manifest into a win.
For instance, Tyrrel Tate exploded for a CEBL career-high 33 points off the bench. The fifth-year guard did a bit of everything as he shot 52 per cent from the field, drilled four triples and knocked down 11-of-13 attempts from the charity stripe. It was just the second time all season Ottawa’s second unit has scored over 25 points as Tate accounted for 75 per cent of that production.
Meanwhile, Isaih Moore continued what’s been an impressive debut season in the CEBL. The forward put up his third double-double (16 points, 12 assists) through four games as he leads the BlackJacks in both points and rebounds.
Despite Ottawa’s record, Moore has had arguably one of the best individual campaign’s this year. He’s fourth in average scoring (19.8), second in rebounds (10.5), third in field goal percentage (56.6) and seventh in three-point percentage (46.2).
2023 season series
Last year the Eastern Conference opponents split the season series at two wins apiece. The BlackJacks won two of the three regular season contests before the Shooting Stars ultimately bounced them in the postseason with a 77-72 win.
Safe to say things will be different this time as Kadre Gray and Jackson Rowe won’t be representing the nation’s capital like they did in 2023. It’ll be the first time both are playing against the BlackJacks, their former squad, since joining the Shooting Stars in the offseason. And although it won’t be a reunion with the Ottawa faithful, there’s sure to be some bragging rights up for grabs.
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About the CEBL
A league created by Canadians for Canadians with a mission to develop Canadian players, coaches, sports executives, and referees, the CEBL boasts the highest percentage of Canadian players of any pro league in the country with 75% of its rosters being Canadian and a record 10 players with NBA experience in 2024. Players also bring experience from the NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National team program, NCAA programs, as well as U SPORTS and CCAA. Fourteen players have signed NBA contracts following a CEBL season, and numerous CEBL players attend NBA G League training camps every year. The CEBL season runs from May through August with games broadcast live on CEBL+ powered by BetVictor, TSN, TSN+, RDS, Game+, Next Level Sports & Entertainment and Courtside1891. More information about the CEBL is available at CEBL.ca and @cebleague on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook & YouTube.
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.
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 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
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 .
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.
The Calgary Surge of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today the signing of American guard Jon Elmore for the upcoming 2026 CEBL season. The Charleston, West Virginia native joins the Surge following an impressive professional journey that includes NBA G League experience with the affiliate teams of the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Sacremento Kings and international play. Most recently, Elmore won an NBA G League Championship with the Stockton Kings in 2025, showcasing his high-level scoring ability and playmaking instincts against elite competition. The 6-foot-3 guard is best known for his standout collegiate career at Marshall University, where he became one of the most decorated players in program history. Elmore finished his NCAA Division I career with over 2,500 points and 800 assists, becoming one of only a handful of players in NCAA history to reach those milestones. During his senior season, he averaged 20.6 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game, earning All-Conference USA First Team honors. “We’re thrilled to welcome Jon to the Calgary Surge organization,” said Shane James, General Manager of the Calgary Surge. “Jon is an elite competitor with a proven ability to score and create for others. His leadership, experience, and offensive skillset will make an immediate impact on our team as we prepare for the 2026 season.” Following his collegiate career, Elmore has built a strong professional résumé with stops across Europe, where he has consistently been a top offensive performer. Known for his deep shooting range, court vision, and ability to control the tempo, he brings a dynamic presence to the Surge backcourt. “I’m excited for the opportunity to join the Calgary Surge and compete in the CEBL,” said Elmore. “I’ve heard great things about the league and the fans in Calgary. I’m ready to bring energy, leadership, and a winning mentality to the team and help build something special this season.” In addition to his scoring prowess, Elmore has demonstrated his ability to contribute across all areas of the game, regularly filling the stat sheet with assists, rebounds, and clutch performances throughout his career. The Calgary Surge tip off their 2026 CEBL season this spring. Training camp roster announcements will be shared soon. Single-game tickets for the Calgary Surge’s “OVERDRIVE” season are now available to the general public. Visit calgarysurge.ca/single-game-tickets for more details. ### About REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. & the Calgary Surge REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. (REC) is a professional sports and live entertainment company co-founded by Jason Ribeiro that operates the Calgary Surge Professional Basketball Club 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 CanadianElite 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 .
Les Ottawa BlackJacks de la Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) ont annoncé aujourd’hui la signature du garde Wilson Dubinsky pour la saison 2026. Mesurant 6 pi 3 po, le garde, originaire d’Ottawa, sera de retour à la maison après cinq saisons au niveau universitaire. Il a amorcé sa carrière au Seward County Community College, avant de se joindre à la South Carolina State University dans la NCAA, puis de disputer sa dernière saison à la Marshall University. « Nous sommes heureux d’ajouter Wilson à notre groupe. Il apporte une solide combinaison d’habiletés, de compétitivité et de caractère. Avec la nature de la saison de la CEBL, il est important d’avoir des joueurs capables d’arriver, de s’adapter rapidement et de contribuer immédiatement. Nous croyons qu’il s’intégrera bien à notre culture et qu’il contribuera à renforcer l’équilibre global de notre formation », a déclaré le directeur général des BlackJacks, James Derouin. Lors de la saison 2025-2026 à la Marshall University, Dubinsky a maintenu des moyennes de cinq points et 3,1 rebonds. À sa première saison avec South Carolina State, il a affiché des moyennes de 7,7 points et 1,7 rebond. Au total de ses cinq saisons universitaires, il a maintenu des moyennes de 8,6 points et 2,5 rebonds. Il a également été nommé sur l’équipe d’étoiles du tournoi de la Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) en 2025. Né le 29 juin 2002, le joueur de 23 ans a évolué au niveau secondaire à Orangeville Prep, à Mono, en Ontario. Dubinsky est né à Saint-Vincent-et-les-Grenadines, dans les Caraïbes, mais a grandi à Ottawa. Le produit local sera donc de retour pour porter les couleurs des BlackJacks devant les partisans de sa ville natale. Les billets individuels sont présentement en vente au theblackjacks.ca/tickets. Les abonnements de saison 2026 des BlackJacks sont également disponibles dès maintenant. Pour plus d’information, les partisans sont invités à écrire à [email protected] ou à composer le 613-294-1133. ### À propos des Ottawa BlackJacks Première franchise d’expansion de la Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), les Ottawa BlackJacks sont une équipe professionnelle masculine de basketball évoluant au The Arena at TD Place. Le club vise l’excellence sur et hors du terrain, avec pour mission d’inspirer la fierté communautaire, de favoriser le développement à la base et d’offrir une expérience exceptionnelle aux partisans. Pour en savoir plus, visitez theblackjacks.ca.
The Ottawa BlackJacks of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today that the team has signed Guard Wilson Dubinsky for the 2026 Season. The 6 '3 guard, originally from Ottawa, will return home after five seasons at the college level. He began his career at Seward County Community College, before transferring to South Carolina State University in the NCAA and then playing his last season at Marshall University. “We’re excited to add Wilson to our group. He brings a strong combination of skill, competitiveness, and character. With the nature of the CEBL season, it’s important to have players who can come in, adapt quickly, and contribute right away. We believe he’ll fit well with our culture and help strengthen the overall balance of our roster,” said BlackJacks General Manager, James Derouin. In his 2025-26 season at Marshall University, Dubinsky averaged five points and 3.1 rebounds. In his first season with South Carolina State, he averaged 7.7 points and 1.7 rebounds. Across his five seasons in college, he averaged 8.6 points and 2.5 rebounds. He was also a part of the Mid-Eastern Atlantic Conference (MEAC) All-Tournament Team in 2025. Born on June 29, 2002, the 23-year-old played his high school years at Orangeville Prep in Mono, Ontario. Dubinsky was born in St. Vincent and The Grenadines in the Caribbean, but grew up in Ottawa. The hometown boy will be returning to play for the BlackJacks, in front of the local fans. Single tickets are currently available to purchase by visiting theblackjacks.ca/tickets . BlackJacks 2026 season-seat memberships are available now. For additional details, fans are encouraged to email [email protected] or call 613-294-1133. ### About the Ottawa BlackJacks The first expansion franchise of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), the Ottawa BlackJacks are a professional men’s basketball team competing out of The Arena at TD Place. The club is committed to excellence on-and-off the court and aims to inspire community pride, foster grassroots development and deliver an unparalleled fan experience. For more information, visit theblackjacks.ca .
The Saskatoon Mamba of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today the team has signed American forward, Jaylin Williams, for the 2026 season. A physical and versatile player, Williams joins the Mamba following his strong 2025 CEBL season with the Winnipeg Sea Bears. The son of Georgia returns to the CEBL after most recently playing with the Stockton Kings (Sacramento Kings affiliate) in the NBA G League, where he helped lead the Kings to a Finals appearance. During the 2025-26 NBA G League season, Williams started in 48 per cent of his 45 games played, ranking third on the team in minutes played (1,216). Known for his two-way style of play, Williams had an impact on both ends of the floor–finishing first on the team in total blocks (37), second on the team for total rebounds (283), and third on the team for total assists (111). Prior to his 2025-26 season with the Stockton Kings, Williams gained CEBL experience with the Winnipeg Sea Bears in 2025, where he put his own stamp on the league. Williams started 52 per cent of his games played, shot 42 per cent from the field, and averaged 9.2 points per game. “Jaylin is the kind of player every coach wants — tough, unselfish, and impactful on both ends of the floor,” said Head Coach Isaiah Fox. “He’s proven he can compete at a high level, and his versatility and experience will be a huge asset for us as we build something special here in Saskatoon.” During his collegiate career, Williams competed at the NCAA Division I level with the Auburn Tigers for his five seasons of eligibility. Breaking out in his fifth year, Williams averaged 12.4 points and 4.4 rebounds per game, while shooting 57 per cent from the field. This performance earned Williams a spot on the All-SEC Second Team. “I’m excited for the opportunity to join the Mamba and compete in the CEBL this season,” said Williams “I’m looking forward to bringing energy, versatility, and a winning mindset, and building something special with the team and fans in Saskatoon.” Fans can expect Williams to bring physicality, experience, and passion to the new era of basketball in Saskatoon, blending established excellence with a renewed vision for the future. ### 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 .
The Vancouver Bandits announced Friday that the club has signed Houston Rockets’ NBA G League guard John Knight III to its roster for the 2026 Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) season. Knight, a 6-foot-3 guard from Jackson, Miss., has spent the past three seasons in the NBA G League with the Houston Rockets’ minor league affiliate, Rio Grande Valley Vipers, where he became known for his dunking ability and shutdown defensive skills. During the 2025-26 season, Knight averaged 7.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game while playing 31.1 minutes per night across 34 games with 29 starts. “We are really excited to add John to our roster this summer. He is an explosive, high-level athlete who can impact the game on both ends and defend multiple positions,” said head coach and general manager Kyle Julius. “He has had real success in the NBA G League, and we expect him to bring that same production, toughness, and versatility to our group right away.” Prior to the NBA G league, Knight made his professional debut during the 2022-23 season with Norwegian club Frøya Basket where he averaged 22.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 6.3 rebounds per game. Knight led the team in all categories, as well as steals (104), blocks (39), and minutes played (1363). Before turning pro, Knight attended Utah State University during the 2018-19 season before transferring to Southern Utah University from 2019 to 2022. During his time with the Thunderbirds, Knight earned First Team All-Big Sky Conference honours in 2022 during his senior year. Knight will reunite with fellow Thunderbird alumnus and recent Bandits free agent signing Tevian Jones, who both shared the court during the 2021-22 season. 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. 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.