‘Everything is different’: Five seasons later, Target Score endings remain as complex as ever
August 2, 2024
Myles Dichter
In just the eighth game of the season, the stakes were already high.
Niagara was visiting Scarborough, and with both teams sitting on 4-3 records and carrying big expectations for the season, a victory here would create slight separation and could jumpstart a second-half run. Moreover, the Shooting Stars had eliminated the River Lions in each of the previous two years.
As expected, the game was close. The Shooting Stars came back from down 11 to take a 72-69 lead into Target Score Time, but eventually the teams found themselves tied at 78, each three points away from the win.
River Lions head coach Victor Raso called timeout. Khalil Ahmad, the two-time Clutch Player of the Year in his season debut, already scored seven of his team’s nine points with the clock off. And so Raso gave the ball to Ahmad.
It was a good idea.
Ahmad drained a triple, ending the ballgame. Talk about clutch.
“The game is literally in your hands. You make this, the game's over, and then they can't do anything about it,” Ahmad said. “To just be able to end on a bucket and literally the other team has no say in what happens unless they get the ball back and I happen to miss or whatever, it takes the competitiveness in me to another level.”
The CEBL instituted Target Score Time in time for the 2020 season and has used it ever since. A quick recap of the rule: the clock is turned off at the first stoppage with four minutes or less in the fourth quarter. Nine points are added to the winning team’s total, creating the Target Score. First team to hit the target wins.
Over five seasons, trends and strategies have evolved over how best to crack the code of Target Score Time.
Ahmad, the all-time leader in Target Score Winners with 18, said the format reminds him of the basketball games he’d play as a kid in Anaheim, Calif.
“It's kind of like playing 21 with your friends when you're growing up and someone has game point, everyone's suddenly super, super locked into another level because just the thought of losing, it's just that much closer, that much more in your face,” he said.
Ask anyone, and you’ll likely hear just how much Target Score Time completely revamps the end of basketball games.
Raso, the CEBL’s all-time coaching leader in games and wins, said Target Score endings are hardly even comparable to the regular fare.
“Other than it's on a basketball court and it's basketball rules, your strategy towards ending the game, the momentum, the pressure, everything is different,” he said. “Simply from a strategy perspective, all of the fouling, end-of-clock scenarios, the things that we've all just learned to know about the game of basketball, those things are out the window.”
In the NBA, if you’re up 15 points with four minutes left, you can often just run out the clock. But in the same scenario in the CEBL, you still must go out and win the game.
The increased pressure is often revealing of which players can rise to the moment.
“It kind of brings out your true qualities both as a player and as a team. I have a love-hate relationship with Target,” Raso said. “The thing I love about it is that over the course of the year, it puts you in situations where you're never going to care more than you do in Target time.”
Yet there is also another side to the coin. Raso said luck can play a factor, depending on teams’ foul situations, while teams who tend to play with flow can falter in the more stilted end-of-game action.
“It is mentally taxing. It definitely is. And it's not just Target, right? It's the fourth quarter, it's the two or three minutes leading up to Target where possessions are so incredibly valuable,” he said.
Ahmad, 27, said he enjoys seeing CEBL newcomers adjust to Target Score Time and realize they can’t just wait out the game if they have a lead.
Mitch Creek, who recently signed with the Vancouver Bandits for his first CEBL stint, gave Target Score Time a rave review.
“This Target Score ending? This needs to be in every league. I’m telling you — CEBL, you’ve done an amazing job,” Creek said.
Despite Creek’s optimism, though, Ahmad said there is an adjustment period — one that he endured himself.
“I think I've become more and more aggressive consistently. And it really developed the way I see the game, I think, because even when it's not [Target Score Time] there's still so much to think about — kind of like playing chess and stuff like that. You got to think ahead in certain cases,” he said.
Raso said Ahmad is “built for” Target Score Time.
“It's a combination of his skillset and his confidence and his mentality. One, he trains a lot, so he's confident. Two, he has the ability to score at all three levels against anybody. And three, he wants it,” Raso said.
Outside of relying on Ahmad, Raso said he’s learned the best strategy is often to just stick with what got his team to Target Score Time in the first place.
And while ending the game with three three-pointers can seem tempting, rim pressure is most important.
“If you don't tell guys, remind them to put pressure on the rim, they'll get greedy and search threes and that's how you can let another team back in,” he said.
Ahmad, in three seasons with Raso, has heeded that lesson.
“That's kind of like going up to the plate and trying to hit a home run. You're more likely to strike out if you swing it with all your might like that instead of hitting the singles and doubles,” he said.
In almost all cases, the pressure falls on the winning team. When the playoffs begin on Friday, that will only ramp up further.
“It does change it, but that's what you have the whole season for, to calm yourself down and understand that what actually wins in Target is very good possessions,” Raso said.
After that early-season win over the Shooting Stars, the River Lions won eight of their last 11 contests to finish the season with a 14-6 record, setting themselves up to host a playoff game on Sunday — a possible rematch against reigning champion Scarborough.
Partnership designed to elevate culture, community, and g ame day experience
The Winnipeg Sea Bears are pleased to announce that they have agreed to terms with point guard Xavier Moon for the 2026 season. Moon (6-2; Morehead State; born January 2, 1995, in Goodwater, AL) is a three-time Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) Player of the Year and brings elite scoring, playmaking ability, and professional experience from international leagues, the CEBL, and the NBA. The Goodwater, Alabama native played two seasons at Northwest Florida State College, helping the program win the National Junior College Championship. He later transferred to Morehead State, where he played two seasons and averaged 16.0 points, 4.6 assists, and 3.4 rebounds in his senior year, earning First Team All-Ohio Valley Conference honours. "I believe adding Xavier to our organization brings tremendous value both on and off the court. He’s a proven winner and someone who has shown he can excel in this league and at the NBA level,” said Winnipeg Sea Bears Head Coach and General Manager Mike Raimbault. “He’s a true professional who understands the importance of our community and our fans, and we’re confident the impact he makes off the court will be just as significant as what he brings on it." Moon has spent time overseas, in North American pro leagues, and across multiple seasons in the CEBL. In 2021, he averaged a league-leading 23.1 points per game on his way to a third straight Player of the Year award and All-CEBL First Team recognition. That season included a 39-point performance, which stood as the CEBL single-game scoring record at the time. 2026 season tickets are now on sale starting at just $27 per game and can be purchased at www.seabears.ca/season-tickets-2026 . ### About the Winnipeg Sea Bears The Winnipeg Sea Bears joined the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) as an expansion franchise in 2023. The city's only professional basketball team plays out of Canada Life Centre from May to August in a 24-game regular season schedule. Winnipeg businessman and lawyer, David Asper, is the organization's owner and chairman. More information on the Sea Bears can be found at seabears.ca and @wpgseabears on Instagram , X , TikTok , LinkedIn & Facebook .
The Brampton Honey Badgers of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) are excited to announce John Ross as assistant general manager. John has spent the better part of the past two decades working in basketball, highlighted by over 14 years with the Portland Trail Blazers and more recently as an assistant coach with the Western Conference Champion Calgary Surge in 2025. With Portland, John worked as a video coordinator with both the coaching and scouting staff. He played a pivotal role in the organization's 2009-2011 stretch of playoff appearances, and also their rebuild starting with the draft acquisitions of Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum. This backcourt duo was the catalyst for eight consecutive playoff appearances between 2014-2021, including a Western Conference Finals appearance in 2019. “Basketball is one of my deepest passions, and I am very grateful to be able to continue my career in this game with the Honey Badgers,” said Ross. “I could not be more excited to work alongside Al [Whitley] and Jermaine [Anderson] to help put together a team that will not only excel on the court, but also in the Peel and Brampton community.” Since moving on from the Trail Blazers in 2022, John has expanded his work experience to both coaching, and teaching. As an assistant coach with the Calgary Surge in 2025, he helped lift the Surge to their second finals appearance in franchise history, after posting a 17-7 record on the season. In terms of teaching, John founded an organization called GET IN THE GAME 101, an educational resource designed to assist young adults in answering the question “What do I do to get a job in the NBA?”. Here, John provides his insights into what it takes to move your career into the biggest stage that basketball has to offer. You can follow his substack here to read more. Beyond basketball, John is a humanitarian, serving at-risk children for over a decade in Zimbabwe and making multiple visits to Ukraine to support refugee relief. “John’s high-level experience, combined with his understanding of what it means to help others, fits with what we are looking for in our organization,” said Honey Badgers CEO Al Whitley. “We are excited to have John assist in leading our basketball operations staff going forward and are confident that he is going to help us in promoting selflessness and winning.” Season tickets for the 2026 Honey Badgers season are on sale now at honeybadgers.ca . Keep an eye out for the Honey Badgers staff and Hammer around the Brampton and Peel community throughout the offseason for potential prizes and giveaways! ### 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 .
The Brampton Honey Badgers of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) are proud to announce Saud Juman as the team's new president. Saud is a highly experienced business leader and executive, bringing over two decades of expertise in scaling businesses, cultivating successful cultures, and leading high-performance teams. Notably, as the founder, president, and CEO of Policy Medical, he developed the first healthcare policy management software, which was adopted by more than 3000 U.S. hospitals. Saud successfully guided the company from its bootstrap beginnings for 18 years to a successful acquisition. Following his exit from the company in 2018, Saud channeled his leadership skills into professional basketball, where he served as the assistant coach & head of player development for the Niagara River Lions, contributing to the team's success both on and off the court during their 2025 CEBL Championship run. “Saud offers a unique combination of executive rigor, people-focused leadership, and extensive basketball knowledge, specializing in the creation of systems and cultures that deliver wins - in business and in the community,” said Honey Badgers CEO Al Whitley. “We are incredibly excited and fortunate to welcome Saud to the Brampton Honey Badgers as the franchise embarks on a new chapter of basketball in the Peel Region and across Canada.” Furthermore, Saud’s commitment to basketball is matched by his dedication to positive community impact through his family’s foundation, which provides funding for youth grassroots programs. “It’s a new era for Honey Badger’s basketball and I am humbled to be a part of this exciting team,” said Juman. “I look forward to approaching this role with the discipline and commitment to winning on and off the court, while forging deep connections in Brampton and the Peel community.” Season tickets for the 2026 Honey Badgers season are on sale now at honeybadgers.ca . Keep an eye out for the Honey Badgers staff and Hammer around the Brampton and Peel community throughout the offseason for potential prizes and giveaways! ### 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 .
Vancouver Bandits team president Dylan Kular has been named a recipient of a 2025 B.C. Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Annual Award, announced by the Government of B.C. on Tuesday. The annual awards celebrate people and organizations that demonstrate leadership in promoting multiculturalism, anti-racism and intercultural understanding. Nearly 50 people and organizations were nominated for 2025 awards, recognizing contributions to building inclusive communities. In addition to Kular, three people and one organization are also receiving the B.C. Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Awards for their exceptional efforts to fight racism and promote inclusion in British Columbia. “These award recipients exemplify the values of inclusion and respect that strengthen our province,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General. “Their leadership and creativity are inspiring. I am proud to honour their exceptional efforts to break down barriers, foster inclusion and build stronger, more equitable communities across British Columbia.” Kular was named a recipient of the “Breaking Barriers” award, which recognizes individuals and organizations for their work in tackling systemic or institutional racism and reducing barriers for marginalized communities. “It is an honour to receive this recognition from the Government of B.C . This award truly reflects the collective efforts of our entire organization,” said Kular. “Our team ownership group provides the leadership that empowers our organization to build and foster meaningful change. The Vancouver Bandits and Bandits Community Foundation are committed to continue breaking barriers and connecting communities across B.C. through the sport of basketball.” Under Kular’s leadership in 2025, which saw him earn CEBL Executive of the Year honours for a league-record third time, the Vancouver Bandits led efforts in building inclusive communities through sports and partnerships with Indigenous organizations and diverse populations across the province. Through partnerships and initiatives through the Bandits Community Foundation , such as the Indigenous Basketball Collective , in collaboration with the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (I-SPARC) and the Junior All Native Tournament (JANT). Kular and the Bandits worked to address systemic barriers and foster meaningful engagement, particularly for individuals with intersecting identities and those in remote areas. “Advancing anti-racism and intercultural trust requires courage, collaboration and commitment,” said Amna Shah, parliamentary secretary for anti-racism initiatives. “These honourees demonstrate all three values through their actions every day. Their efforts to break down barriers and amplify marginalized voices are making a real difference in schools, workplaces and communities across B.C. I am deeply grateful for their leadership and inspired by the positive change they continue to drive.” The B.C. Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Awards are part of the government’s broader efforts to counter hate and racism by celebrating and empowering local, community-based advocates. Since launching in 2008, more than 60 individuals and organizations have been honoured. Other initiatives include: an anti-hate community support fund that supports marginalized and at-risk groups with funding for security equipment, graffiti removal and repairs to damaged property the Resilience BC Anti-Racism Network that connects communities with the information, supports and training they need to respond to and prevent future incidents of racism and hate the B.C. Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Grants, which provide funding to support projects that tackle racial inequity and foster intercultural understanding throughout the province the Racist Incident Helpline, which partners with local organizations to connect people who have experienced racism with resources to help them heal
The Montreal Alliance is pleased to announce the appointment of Nicolas Lesage as Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the professional Montreal-based team in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). Bringing more than 25 years of leadership experience in professional sports, sponsorship, media, and major event operations, Lesage joins the organization at a pivotal time in its development. In his role as COO, Lesage will oversee day-to-day operations and help guide the Alliance’s strategic direction, strengthening the club’s internal structure and supporting the continued growth of professional basketball in Montreal. “I’m very happy to return to the sports world with an organization that’s rising fast,” said Nicolas Lesage. “Sports have always been part of my professional DNA, and I’m excited to help the Alliance establish its place in Montreal’s sports landscape.” A Proven Leader in Sports, Media, and Entertainment Over the course of his career, Lesage has held key leadership roles within major sports and cultural organizations, including the Montreal Alouettes, RDS/Bell Media, Groupe Juste pour rire (Groupe CH), Productions Podium, as well as communications and marketing roles at Cossette and Carat – Créativité Média, where he gained extensive experience in media strategy and integrated advertising solutions. His expertise includes building and integrating strategic and financial frameworks, directing sponsorship portfolios, developing operational infrastructures, and leading brand transformation initiatives. Among his notable achievements are the redevelopment of the Alouettes’ visual identity and the implementation of a sponsorship and marketing framework at Centre 21.02. A Shared Vision for the Future “Nicolas’s experience in professional sports, along with his expertise in sponsorships and media sales, made him the obvious choice for this role,” said Mark Weightman, Governor of the Montreal Alliance. “The success of our previous collaborations will allow us to be effective quickly, and I look forward to working with him again.” Lesage added “Mark and I share a clear vision for the future of the organization, and with strong support from ownership, I believe we can achieve our goals and have a meaningful impact on the community.” About Nicolas Lesage A respected leader in the Canadian sports and entertainment industry, Nicolas Lesage specializes in commercial strategy, partnership development, and operational leadership. He supports organizations through his consulting practice, NLPS, and has been actively involved in various community initiatives over the years, including the Montreal Alouettes Foundation, the Heart & Stroke Foundation, the Grand Défi Pierre Lavoie, and minor league baseball (LBAVR). ###
L’Alliance de Montréal annonce la nomination de Nicolas Lesage au poste de chef des opérations (COO) de l’équipe professionnelle montréalaise de la Ligue Élite Canadienne de Basketball (LECB). Fort de plus de 25 ans d’expérience à des postes de leadership dans le domaine du sport professionnel, des commandites, des médias et de l’événementiel, Lesage se joint à l’organisation à un moment charnière de son développement. À titre de COO, il supervisera les opérations quotidiennes et contribuera à orienter la stratégie globale de l’Alliance, tout en renforçant la structure interne du club afin de soutenir la croissance continue du basketball professionnel à Montréal. « Je suis très heureux de faire un retour dans le sport auprès d’une organisation en croissance », souligne Nicolas Lesage. « Le sport a toujours fait partie de mon ADN professionnel et je suis ravi d’aider l’Alliance à établir sa place dans le paysage sportif de Montréal. » Un leader reconnu dans le milieu sportif, médiatique et du divertissement Au cours de sa carrière, Lesage a occupé des rôles clés au sein d’importantes organisations sportives et culturelles, notamment les Alouettes de Montréal, RDS/Bell Média, le Groupe Juste pour rire (Groupe CH), Productions Podium, ainsi que dans le secteur des communications et du marketing au sein de Cossette et Carat - Créativité Média, où il a acquis une vaste expérience en stratégie média et en solutions publicitaires intégrées. Son expertise couvre l’élaboration de structures stratégiques et financières, la direction de portefeuilles de commandites, le développement d’infrastructures opérationnelles et la gestion de transformations de marque. Parmi ses réalisations notables figurent la refonte de l’identité visuelle des Alouettes et la mise en place d’une structure de marketing et de commandite au Centre 21.02. Une vision commune pour l’avenir « L’expérience de Nicolas dans le sport professionnel, ainsi que son expertise en commandites et en ventes médiatiques, en fait le choix évident pour ce rôle », a déclaré Mark Weightman, gouverneur de l’Alliance de Montréal. « De plus, le succès de nos collaborations antérieures nous permettra d’être efficaces rapidement, et je me réjouis de travailler à nouveau avec lui. » Lesage ajoute : « Mark et moi partageons une vision claire et ambitieuse de l’orientation que nous souhaitons donner à l’organisation et, avec le soutien des propriétaires, nous sommes convaincus que nous pouvons atteindre nos objectifs et avoir un impact significatif sur la communauté. » À propos de Nicolas Lesage Leader respecté dans l’industrie canadienne du sport et du divertissement, Nicolas Lesage se spécialise en stratégie commerciale, développement de partenariats et direction opérationnelle. Il appuie diverses organisations par l’entremise de sa pratique de consultation, NLPS, et s’est impliqué au fil des années dans plusieurs initiatives communautaires, notamment la Fondation des Alouettes de Montréal, la Fondation des maladies du cœur et de l’AVC, le Grand Défi Pierre Lavoie et le baseball de ligue mineure (LBAVR). ###
The Winnipeg Sea Bears are pleased to announce that Rhéanne Marcoux will be joining the organization as Chief Brand and Experience Officer, effective January 1, 2026. An alum of Red River College and the University of Winnipeg, Rhéanne has had a progressive and distinguished career in broadcast journalism, sports marketing and as an entrepreneur with her own creative agency. She’s worked with Radio Canada, True North Sports and Entertainment and has spent the past 11 years with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, most recently as Vice President Marketing and Communications for the 112th Grey Cup. In this newly created executive role, Rhéanne will be responsible for leading the Sea Bears’ overall brand strategy, fan and guest experience, marketing, and community engagement. She will oversee the development of integrated campaigns, in-venue and digital experiences, and partnerships that deepen the connection between the Sea Bears and fans across Manitoba and beyond. “Rhéanne brings a rare combination of strategic brand insight and a deep understanding of what makes live sports unforgettable,” said David Asper, Chair and CEO of the Winnipeg Sea Bears. “As we continue to grow our fan base and our impact in the community, her leadership will be critical in shaping how people experience Sea Bears basketball – not just on game day, but every day of the year.” As Chief Brand and Experience Officer, Rhéanne will work closely with the executive team, basketball operations, and business partners to ensure every touchpoint with the Sea Bears organization reflects the team’s values, energy, and commitment to excellence, both on and off the court. “Stepping into this role feels incredibly meaningful. The Sea Bears have ignited something special in our city, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help shape the next chapter of that story,” said Rhéanne. “Winnipeg fans bring a level of passion and pride that is truly unmatched, and I’m looking forward to building on experiences that honour that spirit.” ### About the Winnipeg Sea Bears The Winnipeg Sea Bears joined the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) as an expansion franchise in 2023. The city's only professional basketball team plays out of Canada Life Centre from May to August in a 24-game regular season schedule. Winnipeg businessman and lawyer, David Asper, is the organization's owner and chairman. More information on the Sea Bears can be found at seabears.ca and @wpgseabears on Instagram , X , TikTok , LinkedIn & Facebook .
Les BlackJacks d’Ottawa de la Ligue élite canadienne de basketball (LECB) ont annoncé aujourd’hui que le club a renouvelé le contrat de James Derouin, qui occupera le poste de directeur général de l’équipe pour la saison 2026. Derouin entamera sa deuxième saison comme directeur général à temps plein des BlackJacks après avoir aidé Ottawa à terminer au deuxième rang du classement de la saison régulière de la Conférence de l’Est et à atteindre les demi-finales de conférence en 2025. « Je suis reconnaissant d’avoir l’occasion de revenir et d’aider à faire progresser cette organisation », a déclaré Derouin. « Mon objectif est clair : bâtir une équipe de championnat pour cette ville, renforcer notre engagement auprès de la communauté et collaborer étroitement avec notre nouveau groupe propriétaire afin d’offrir une formation de grande qualité qui reflète notre vision commune de l’excellence. Cet endroit est spécial, et je suis déterminé à tout mettre en œuvre pour ramener un titre ici. » La saison 2026 de la LECB marque la sixième année de Derouin au sein de l’organisation des BlackJacks, lui qui a également occupé les postes d’entraîneur-chef du club et de directeur de la stratégie et de l’analytique basketball depuis son arrivée en 2021. « Nous sommes fiers d’accueillir James de nouveau au sein de notre organisation, a déclaré Jason Winters, président des BlackJacks. Grâce à son leadership, nous franchirons des étapes audacieuses pour bâtir une formation de calibre championnat tout en élargissant notre impact dans la communauté — en développant des programmes de basketball pour les jeunes, en créant des occasions pour les jeunes athlètes et en inspirant la prochaine génération de joueurs, tant sur le terrain qu’à l’extérieur. » Originaire d’Ottawa, Derouin est l’entraîneur-chef de l’équipe masculine de basketball des Gee-Gees de l’Université d’Ottawa depuis juin 2010 et il est l’entraîneur le plus victorieux de l’histoire du programme. Cette saison, il a mené le groupe à une fiche de 5-2 en matchs de OUA et à une septième place dans la plus récente édition du Top 10 de USPORTS. La saison 2026 des BlackJacks d’Ottawa débute en mai 2026. Les abonnements de saison pour la campagne 2026 sont maintenant disponibles en ligne à theblackjacks.ca/fr-ca/season-seat-memberships . À propos des BlackJacks d'Ottawa Première franchise d'expansion de la Ligue élite canadienne de basketball (LECB), les BlackJacks d’Ottawa sont une équipe professionnelle masculine de basketball qui évolue à l’Arena de la Place TD. Le club est engagé envers l’excellence tant sur le terrain qu’en dehors, et vise à inspirer la fierté communautaire, à encourager le développement de la relève et à offrir une expérience inégalée à ses partisans. Pour plus d'informations, visitez le site theblackjacks.ca .
The Ottawa BlackJacks of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today that the club has re-signed James Derouin to a contract which will see him serve as general manager of the team for the 2026 season. Derouin will be entering his second season as the full-time general manager of the BlackJacks after he helped lead Ottawa to a second place finish in the Eastern Conference’s regular season standings and an appearance in the conference semifinals in 2025. "I’m grateful for the opportunity to return and help lead this organization forward,” said Derouin. “My focus is clear: build a championship team for this city, deepen our engagement with the community, and work closely with our new ownership group to deliver a high-quality roster that reflects our shared vision for excellence. This is a special place, and I’m committed to doing everything possible to bring a title home." The 2026 CEBL campaign will mark Derouin’s sixth with the BlackJacks organization having also served as the club’s head coach and Director of Basketball Strategy and Analytics since joining the staff in 2021. "We are proud to welcome James back to our organization,” said BlackJacks President Jason Winters. “With his leadership, we will take bold steps to build a championship-caliber roster while simultaneously expanding our impact in the community—growing youth basketball programs, creating opportunities for young athletes, and inspiring the next generation of players both on and off the court.” An Ottawa native, Derouin has served as head coach of the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees men’s basketball team since June 2010 and is the winningest coach in program history. This season, he has led the group to a 5-2 record in OUA play and a number seven ranking in the latest iteration of the USPORTS Top 10 rankings. The Ottawa BlackJacks’ 2026 season begins in May 2026. Season seat packages for the 2026 campaign are now available online at theblackjacks.ca/season-seat-memberships . 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 .