CEBL NEWS ARTICLES

T he Calgary Surge have signed six-foot-eight forward Gabe Osabuohien fo r the 2024 season, the team announced Wednesday. Osabuohien recently played with the Cleveland Charge of the National Basketball Association (NBA) G-League where he averaged 3.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.0 steals and 15.1 minutes in 52 games played. “We are thrilled to welcome Gabe Osabuohien to our team. He is young, eager to learn and will be a force on the defensive end,” said Surge General Manager, Shane James. “I have no doubt he can help us win.” The six-foot-eight forward from Toronto, Ontario graduated from West Virginia University where he averaged 4.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 18.1 minutes in 31 games played. Prior to his time in West Virginia, he played with the University of Arkansas Razorbacks where he averaged 3.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 18.5 minutes in 28 games played. “I am very excited to be a part of the team this season as this is my first time playing in the CEBL and visiting Calgary,” said Osabuohien. “I am thankful for the opportunity and excited to get to work. Let’s bring a championship to Calgary!” Fans can now purchase tickets to the 2024 Season Opener at the Scotiabank Saddledome at www.calgarysurge.ca/surge2thedome .  About the Calgary Surge The Calgary Surge tipped off their inaugural season at WinSport Event Centre in May 2023, after originating the Guelph Nighthawks, one of the founding members of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). From day one, the Surge have been committed to being the Home Team for Calgary and a space where everyone is welcome. The Calgary 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 and entertainment. In their inaugural season, the Surge finished 1st overall in the Western Conference and were crowned Western Conference Champions in the playoffs. For more information, visit www.calgarysurge.ca . About the Canadian Elite Basketball League 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 73% of its 2023 rosters being Canadian. Players bring experience from the NBA, NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National team program, and top NCAA programs as well as U S PORTS. 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. More information about the CEBL is available at CEBL.ca and @cebleague on Instagram , Twitter , TikTok , LinkedIn , Facebook & YouTube .

The Scarborough Shooting Stars of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced Monday that Chris Exilus has been promoted to Vice President and Senior Advisor. Exilus, a 2023 CEBL Champion, led the Shooting Stars to the CEBL’s Championship Game in back-to-back seasons. “I am very excited about my new promotion into this role,” said Exilus. “As our franchise continues to evolve, the growth opportunity and platform to use all of my abilities is what I am looking forward to the most. This season is going to be great, we can’t wait to get started”. The Shooting Stars open their season on May 24 at the Canada Life Centre where they will take on the Winnipeg Sea Bears. The team welcomes the Niagara River Lions to the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre on June 1 for their home opener and championship banner drop. For more information on the team, tickets and schedule visit scarboroughshootingstars.ca .

T he Winnipeg Sea Bears of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced Monday they have signed Jarred Ogungbemi-Jackson, a Winnipegger who has garnered major accolades overseas. Most recently, the skilled guard averaged 18.9 points per game for Tsmoki-Minsk, good for third in the VTB United League, often considered one of the top five international leagues. This past winter, he also became the seventh player in VTB United history to score more than 600 points in a season. Ogungbemi-Jackson’s roots trace back to Winnipeg, where he led his Garden City Collegiate Gophers to back-to-back provincial titles. The humble and hard-working guard established a standard for work ethic while bussing to the school hours before the morning bell to get hundreds of shots up each day. “I am estatic to be joining the Winnipeg Sea Bears this season! Playing professionally in my hometown where I was born and raised is a dream come true and something I never knew would be possible. I can’t wait to play in front of my friends and family and this amazing fanbase. I plan to bring my leadership, my talent and competitiveness to help us compete at the highest level every night,” said Ogungbemi-Jackson. Ogungbemi-Jackson played his post-secondary ball with the Calgary Dinos, where his coach described his impact as “ridiculous.” The team-first workhorse still holds the record for steals in program history with 197 and ranks third all-time in points (1799). From there, the 5-foot-10 guard launched into a successful pro career, using his dedication, work ethic and high IQ to rocket him through several top-tier European leagues. Ogungbemi-Jackson was named Guard of the Year in the Portuguese LPB, his first pro league, in just his second season. He went on to average 17.8 points per game in back-to-back seasons from 2019-2021, first in the Finnish league Korisliiga then in the Dutch Basketball League in the Netherlands. In the latter year, he was named the league’s Import Player of the Year. The following season, he scooped up an All-Star nod at the FIBA Europe Cup while playing for the Bakken Bears before helping his team win the Danish Basketball League championship. “When we talk Winnipeg basketball and the best players the city has produced, one name consistently pops up: Jarred Ogungbemi-Jackson. After playing all over the world, we are thrilled that Jarred will join our Sea Bears organization and have the chance to play in front of family and friends in Winnipeg, his hometown,” said Mike Taylor, head coach and general manager of the Winnipeg Sea Bears. “Jarred brings outstanding point guard play, excellent three-point shooting and tremendous experience to our team. Just as important, Jarred is a homegrown talent who can inspire the next generation of Winnipeg players to pursue their basketball dreams. Jarred is a big part of making the Sea Bears Winnipeg's team.” Ogungbemi-Jackson is now the seventh professional player and sixth Canadian signed by the Sea Bears this season, after Chad Posthumus , Alex Campbell , Mason Bourcier , and Shane Osayande . The team signed 2023 CEBL MVP, import Teddy Allen on Feb. 7 and drafted developmental players Simon Hildebrandt, Tyler Sagl and Shawn Maranan on April 11. MEDIA: The Sea Bears open training camp Monday, May 13 at Sport Manitoba in Winnipeg before they head to Saskatchewan to take on the Rattlers on May 22. The team’s home opener is slated for May 24 at Canada Life Centre against the defending CEBL champions, the Scarborough Shooting Stars.  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 20-game regular season schedule. In the team’s inaugural season, it placed second in the Western Conference and set new records for CEBL attendance on three occasions. The organization became the first in CEBL history to win four major awards: MVP (Teddy Allen), Sixth Man of the Year (Jelani Watson-Gayle), U SPORTS Player of the Year (Simon Hildebrandt) and Coach of the Year. The front office subsequently was awarded the 2023 CEBL Franchise of the Year. More information on the Sea Bears can be found at seabears.ca and @wpgseabears on Instagram , X , TikTok , LinkedIn & Facebook . 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 73% of its 2023 rosters being Canadian. Players bring experience from the NBA, NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National team program, and top NCAA programs as well as U SPORTS. 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. More information about the CEBL is available at CEBL.ca and @cebleague on Instagram , Twitter , TikTok , LinkedIn , Facebook & YouTube .

LANGLEY, B.C. , April 12, 2024 – The Vancouver Bandits announced Friday that the club has re-signed 2024 U SPORTS most valuable player Diego Maffia for the club’s upcoming Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) season at Langley Events Centre (LEC). Maffia appeared in 14 contests (four starts) with the Bandits last summer and averaged 7.1 points, 2.4 assists, 1.4 rebounds and 15.2 minutes per game in his first season of professional basketball. In his first pro career start on June 3, 2023, Maffia recorded a double-double and the game-winning basket as part of a 15-point, 11-assist performance against the Calgary Surge. This will be the Bandits’ sixth season and Maffia’s second with the club. A native of Victoria, B.C., and an alumnus of Oak Bay Secondary, Maffia returns to Vancouver on a ‘developmental contract,’ which allows the 22-year-old guard to retain his eligibility for a fifth year at the University of Victoria, where he has starred for the Vikes since 2019. Prior to the 2023-24 U SPORTS season, Maffia spent last summer with the Bandits after being drafted sixth overall in the first round of the 2023 CEBL Draft. “After a great experience last summer, I knew that I wanted to run it back. We have some unfinished business to take care of and I can’t wait to do it in front of the best fanbase in the country!” Maffia said. Maffia has enjoyed a decorated U SPORTS career to date. He has been named a first team all-Canadian and Canada West player of the year twice in consecutive years (2022-23 and 23-24), and has led the Vikes to three straight Canada West championships and U SPORTS Final 8 appearances. Over the course of four seasons at Victoria, Maffia is averaging 28.3 minutes, 20.1 points, 3.7 assists, 3.6 rebounds, 1.2 steals and 3.4 three-pointers made per game on 34.8 per cent shooting from long range across 75 games played (56 starts). “I felt it was important to sign and announce Diego as a standard player. He will have a development contract to maintain his eligibility but I view him as a high level pro who has earned a proper roster spot with us. Diego has proven he belongs in this league and we are excited about working with him again this summer,” said Bandits head coach and general manager Kyle Julius. Tickets for the Vancouver Bandits’ highly anticipated home opener on Thursday, May 23 at 7 p.m. against the Montréal Alliance are on sale now at this link . Vancouver will play a total of 10 regular season home games in 2024 between Thursday, May 23 and Thursday, July 18. The Bandits wrap up regular season action on the road against Montréal on Sunday, July 28 at 1 p.m. PT. All CEBL regular season games including playoffs will be live-streamed on TSN+, as well as the CEBL’s OTT platform, CEBL+ , and on CEBL Mobile, the official app of the CEBL (available on Android and iOS devices). Individuals interested in ticket flexibility or purchasing a bundle of tickets are invited to consider a flex pack or season tickets . More information can be found at thebandits.ca/tickets or by speaking with a Bandits representative by calling (604) 455-8881 or emailing [email protected] . A complete regular season schedule can be found by clicking here . 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 Langley Events Centre (LEC). 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 73% of its 2023 rosters being Canadian. Players bring experience from the NBA, NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National team program, and top NCAA programs as well as U SPORTS. 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. More information about the CEBL is available at CEBL.ca and @cebleague on Instagram , Twitter , TikTok , LinkedIn , Facebook & YouTube .

Thirty Canadian student-athletes from U SPORTS, CCAA selected over three rounds

Canada’s biggest annual basketball celebration heads to Winnipeg for first time in August 2025

The Ottawa BlackJacks of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced Tuesday the signing of Canadian Guard Keevan Veinot for the upcoming 2024 CEBL season. A six-foot-four guard from Port Williams, Nova Scotia, Veinot averaged 11.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.1 steals, and 22.8 minutes in 87 professional games played in Canada, in Belgium, and in the Netherlands. Veinot is currently wrapping up his 2023-24 season with the Port of Antwerp Giants in BNXT, the highest professional basketball league in Belgium and the Netherlands. Across 25 games played, he has maintained an average of 8.9 points. On November 17 against Limburg United, Veinot scored a season-high 20 points, including two three-pointers, and contributing two rebounds, five assists, and four steals. In the preceding season, he played for LWD Aris Leeuwarden in the same league, where he averaged 17.0 points per game. One of his standout performances occurred on February 18 against Donar Groningen, where he scored a season-high 33 points, hitting all five of his three-point attempts and going four-for-four from the free-throw line.  Veinot, selected in the first round by the Honey Badgers in the 2021 CEBL U SPORTS Draft, tipped off his professional basketball journey in the CEBL. Returning for a second season with the Honey Badgers in 2022, he averaged 6.2 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists over 21 games. He posted eight multi-assist games and five double-digit scoring games. With a decorated collegiate career, Veinot represented Dalhousie University from 2017 to 2022, accumulating numerous accolades. These include being named Atlantic University Sports (AUS) First Team All-Star in 2019-20 and 2021-22, First Team All-Canadian in 2019-20, and AUS All Rookie Team in 2017-18, among others. In 2019-20, he secured the AUS Men’s Basketball MVP, a first in Dalhousie University's history. He led his team in scoring average (15.6), minutes played (30.3), rebounding (5.2), assists (5.5), and steals (2.3) that season. Veinot's basketball roots run deep in his family. His twin sister, Jayda Veinot, played for the University of New Brunswick (2022-24) and Acadia (2018-22). His father, Kevin Veinot, was an all-star at Acadia, notably contributing to the 1987-88 team that reached the national final. His mother, Jennifer Hale, achieved success as a two-time provincial high school champion at Cobequid Education Centre and as an AUAA MVP at the University of New Brunswick. The Ottawa BlackJacks 2024 home opener will take place at the Arena at TD Place on May 29. Fans can now purchase BlackJacks season seat memberships, Flex Packs, and group tickets at theblackjacks.ca/tickets . For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Ottawa BlackJacks Membership Services team directly at 613-690-0519 or by email at [email protected] . Quotes: “I'm very excited to be back in the CEBL and join the BlackJacks organization. I have a long-lasting relationship with Coach Derouin and I look forward to playing for him. Ottawa’s fanbase and basketball experience is one that I am familiar with as an opponent, and I can't wait to embrace it as a BlackJacks player.” - Keevan Veinot, Guard, Ottawa BlackJacks Basketball Club “Keevan is a versatile and multi-faceted point guard who can play all three guard positions. He has a high IQ, and he is a high character player. He checks all the boxes for the Ottawa BlackJacks culture and we’re looking forward to welcoming him to Ottawa. - James Derouin, General Manager and Head Coach, Ottawa BlackJacks Basketball Club About the Ottawa BlackJacks The first expansion franchise of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), the Ottawa BlackJacks showcase the best of basketball and entertainment in the nation’s capital. The Ottawa front office brings NBA, NBA G League, national team, NCAA and major international pro league experience to the franchise. Led by General Manager and Head Coach James Derouin, Ottawa plays its home games out of the world-class Arena at TD Place in Lansdowne Park. The anticipation is building for the upcoming 2024 season, slated to tip off at home on May 29 against the Edmonton Stingers. For more information, visit www.theblackjacks.ca. About Canadian Elite Basketball League 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 73% of its 2023 rosters being Canadian. Players bring experience from the NBA, NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National team program, and top NCAA programs as well as U SPORTS. 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. More information about the CEBL is available at CEBL.ca and @cebleague on Instagram , Twitter , TikTok , LinkedIn , Facebook & YouTube .

Canada’s largest pro sports league added to leading North American sports channel’s live programming this summer

Saskatoon, Sask. - The Saskatchewan Rattlers of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced Friday that the club signed six-foot-four Quebec City, QC native Emmanuel Bandoumel for the 2024 season. The NCAA-experienced guard makes his CEBL debut with the Saskatchewan Rattlers this season. “Emmanuel is a player we were in hot pursuit of signing while he was coming out of college last year – but unfortunately he sustained an injury prior to the CEBL season,” said General Manager and Vice-President of Basketball Operations, Barry Rawlyk. “He worked hard at a full recovery and has put together a solid season playing over in Denmark. He will surprise some people with his athleticism and his ability to score.” Bandoumel made his professional debut during the 2023-24 season in Denmark, playing with the Svendborg Rabbits of Basketligaen averaging 15.0 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 27.5 minutes playing in seven games. He is currently ranked in the top five on the roster in field goal percentage (50.0%), three-point percentage (45.8%), rebounds per game (3.7), and assists per game (2.1). Prior to his professional career, Bandoumel attended Jean-De-Brebeuf High School in Montreal, Quebec. He made his collegiate debut playing with the Hill College Rebels of the NJCAA, where he started in 27 of 30 games averaging 13.9 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.9 assists while shooting 53.0% from the field. As a sophomore, he made his NCAA debut with Southern Methodist University (SMU), playing in all 30 games with 18 starts before the season was cut short by COVID-19. Bandoumel returned to SMU for his junior and senior year, where he started in 50 consecutive games averaging 10.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 29.9 minutes. In his final SMU season, the Mustangs finished in second in the AAC Conference during the regular season with 13 wins and four losses. For his final NCAA season, Bandoumel transferred to Nebraska starting in 20 consecutive games – where he averaged 8.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 31.1 minutes. Before his mid-season injury, the Huskers were ranked in the top 35 nationally for their defense which was largely due to Bandoumel pressure on the defensive end. “I’m extremely excited to start my CEBL career with Saskatchewan,” said Bandoumel. “Barry and Coach Larry saw something in me and they were willing to give me the opportunity to show my potential, which I am thankful for! I hope to make the fans cheer all summer long with some good basketball. See you soon!” Bandoumel joins the 2024 roster which includes Cody John , Maurice Calloo , Adong Makuoi , and 2023 Rattlers Defensive Player of the Year - Anthony Tsegakele . The Rattlers are led by Head Coach Larry Abney , who joins Saskatchewan from the Los Angeles Clippers organization. The full 2024 Rattlers schedule has been released, which features a full 20-game slate with one potential home playoff game and Championship Weekend (CW24) happening in Montréal, QC from August 9-11, 2024 . General public and returning season ticket members can claim their seats for the entire Rattlers 2024 season by using Account Manager . Season tickets range from $175 in the value section to $850 for courtside row 2 (All row 1 options are sold out). Single Game Tickets are available by utilizing the Flex Ticket Bundles. All tickets can also be purchased through the Rattlers Front Office (306) 244-2181, Saskatchewan Rattlers website , or via Ticketmaster . Single game tickets will be available later this spring. For more seating options, suites, and group rates; fans can contact an account executive . About the Saskatchewan Rattlers The Saskatchewan Rattlers are Saskatchewan’s professional basketball team, one of the six original teams in the CEBL – the Rattlers won the 2019 inaugural season championship. Playing out of SaskTel Centre in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – the Rattlers offer an entertainment-focused environment surrounded by some of the world’s top professional athletes. The Rattlers are a community-first organization and take pride in their ability to bring communities together while making sport more accessible to the province. About the Canadian Elite Basketball League (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 73% of its 2023 rosters being Canadian. Players bring experience from the NBA, NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National team program, and top NCAA programs as well as U SPORTS. 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. More information about the CEBL is available at CEBL.ca and @cebleague on Instagram , Twitter , TikTok , LinkedIn , Facebook & YouTube . For more information on the Saskatchewan Rattlers professional basketball team - visit therattlers.ca

St. Catharines, ON - The Niagara River Lions announced today the signing of 25 year-old Canadian, Aaryn Rai. The 6’6 forward from Markham, Ontario is currently playing for the Cheshire Phoenix of the British Basketball League (BBL) where he is averaging 18.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 31.6 minutes per game. “Aaryn is a young Canadian who has really impressed me with how he plays the game,” said Head Coach and General Manager, Victor Raso. “His game is very multi-faceted, he plays multiple positions, can score in many ways and is an excellent rebounder. On top of that, he is a very impressive young man who has a bright career ahead of him. Aaryn is an excellent addition to our team and I’m very excited to have him!” Prior to his professional career, Rai spent five years at Ivy League, Dartmouth College where he played Division 1 basketball while earning a neuroscience degree. As a member of the Big Green, Rai averaged 8.6 points, 5,3 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 107 games played. During the 2021-2022 season, Rai ranked among the top 10 in the Ivy League in scoring (12.3 per game, 10th), rebounding (7.2 per game, 3rd), blocked shots (0.6 per game, 7th) and steals (1.2 per game, 10th). Following his collegiate career, Rai signed with the Hemel Storm of the National Basketball League in England where the team went unbeaten all season and Rai made his mark in Storm history. Rai became the team’s second ever season MVP after averaging 24 points, 10.8 rebounds and 5.5 assists amongst many memorable performances. In his current season with the Pheonix, Rai helped lead the team to a BBL Cup victory putting up 16 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals in the final game. He sits second in the league in points per game (18.4), and fifth in total rebounds per game (7.8). “I'm super excited to play for Coach Victor and the River Lions this summer.” said Rai “I'm preparing to bring great energy to the team and hopefully some silverware back to Niagara at the end of the season!” The Niagara River Lions are one of the original six teams of the CEBL . Playing out of Meridian Centre in downtown St. Catharines, the River Lions represent the twelve municipalities of the Niagara Region while living up to the River Lions moniker of pride and strength of community. Season tickets, voucher packs and group tickets are on sale now. Visit www.riverlions.ca/tickets for more information.

Dragons’ Den star Manjit Minhas becomes first female owner in CEBL history

The Calgary Surge have signed six-foot-one guard Corey Davis Jr. for the 2024 season, the team announced Wednesday. Davis Jr. is currently playing professionally with the Vanoli Cremona of the Lega Basket Series A in Milan, Italy where he averages 14.0 points, 2.0 assists, and 23.5 minutes. “We are thrilled to welcome Corey Davis to our team. Corey epitomizes professionalism in every aspect. Being a born leader, his presence on the court is both inspiring and enjoyable to witness. His dynamic energy is sure to captivate and delight our fans in Calgary,” said Surge General Manager, Shane James. “In essence, Corey brings an electrifying spark to our team. With his extensive experience competing in the premier divisions of Spain and Italy, there's no doubt he will make a significant impact in our league.” The six-foot-one guard from Ruston, Louisiana has played professionally for the past 5 years averaging 10.6 points, 2.3 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.1 steals, and 26.9 minutes in 127 games played in Europe and notably in the National Basketball Association (NBA) Summer League with the Washington Wizards. “This is my first time playing in Canada, and I can’t wait to get started,” said Surge guard Corey Davis Jr. “I have heard great things about the Canadian Elite Basketball League and I am excited to leave my mark.” Fans can now purchase tickets to the 2024 Season Opener at the Scotiabank Saddledome at www.calgarysurge.ca/surge2thedome . About the Calgary Surge The Calgary Surge tipped off their inaugural season at WinSport Event Centre in May 2023, after originating the Guelph Nighthawks, one of the founding members of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). From day one, the Surge have been committed to being the Home Team for Calgary and a space where everyone is welcome. The Calgary 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 and entertainment. In their inaugural season, the Surge finished 1st overall in the Western Conference and were crowned Western Conference Champions in the playoffs. For more information, visit www.calgarysurge.ca . About the Canadian Elite Basketball League 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 73% of its 2023 rosters being Canadian. Players bring experience from the NBA, NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National team program, and top NCAA programs as well as U SPORTS. 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. More information about the CEBL is available at CEBL.ca and @cebleague on Instagram , Twitter , TikTok , LinkedIn , Facebook & YouTube .

Saskatoon, Sask. - The Saskatchewan Rattlers of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced Thursday that the club has signed six-foot-three Mississauga, Ontario native Cody John for the 2024 season. The NCAA-experienced guard returns for his fifth season in the CEBL. “Cody brings some solid CEBL experience to our line-up. He is a team-first guy that has always shown his willingness to play whatever role is necessary for the team to succeed,” said General Manager and Vice-President of Basketball Operations, Barry Rawlyk. “He is a really personable young man and will prove to be an asset not only on the court, but also in the community.” During his five-year professional career, John has played with nine teams in Cyprus, Kosovo and Canada. He has a career average of 11.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 24.3 minutes in 99 games. John made his professional debut during the 2020 CEBL Summer Series with the Hamilton Honey Badgers (now Brampton Honey Badgers). During the CEBL postseason, he joined Golden Eagle YLLI in the FBK in Kosovo. Golden Eagle YLLI finished in first place in their regular season, John played 14 games while averaging 16.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 33.0 minutes while shooting 43.4% from the field. For the 2021 CEBL Season, John returned to the Hamilton Honey Badgers playing 15 games, averaging 9.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 19.0 minutes while shooting 53.9% from the field and 45.7% from behind the arc. During the 2021-22 Basketball Champions League Americas, he represented the CEBL playing with the Edmonton Stingers in Nicaragua. In the 2022 CEBL season, John signed with the Ottawa Blackjacks. He played 11 games averaging 8.5 points, 2.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 23.9 minutes. During the CEBL postseason, he signed with Omonia Nicosia of Cyprus Division A in Cyprus. He went on to have a breakthrough season playing in 14 games while averaging 17.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 36.1 minutes. Returning to the CEBL in 2023, he signed with the Brampton Honey Badgers. He played all 20 games while averaging 8.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 21.0 minutes. “I can’t wait to be a part of the Rattlers. I have heard the fan base is amazing and can’t wait to be a part of that and get some wins,” said John. “I’m excited to get to work and look forward to getting started!” Prior to his professional career, John attended Wasatch Academy where he helped lead them to the Utah State Championships while earning back-to-back Utah State 2A MVP honours. He made his NCAA debut in 2015 with the Weber State Wildcats appearing in 30 games as a freshman. The Wildcats had a successful season capturing the 2015 Gulf Coast Championship finishing their regular season with a 26-9 record with the 2016 Big Sky Conference Championship earning an appearance in NCAA March Madness. During his four-year collegiate career with Weber State, John played 129 games averaging 10.5 points, 3.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 27.8 minutes while averaging 44.5% from the field. He finished his career with Weber State earning back-to-back All-Big Sky Conference honors. Cody John joins the 2024 roster including the newly-signed NBA G League experienced Canadian forward Maurice Calloo along with returning forward Adong Makuoi and 2023 Rattlers Defensive Player of the Year, Anthony Tsegakele. The Rattlers are led by Head Coach Larry Abney, who joins Saskatchewan from the Los Angeles Clippers organization. The full 2024 Rattlers schedule has been released, which features a full 20-game slate with one potential home playoff game and Championship Weekend (CW24) happening in Montréal, QC from August 9-11, 2024 . General public and returning season ticket members can claim their seats for the entire Rattlers 2024 season by using Account Manager . Season tickets range from $175 in the value section to $850 for courtside row 2 (All row 1 options are sold out). Single Game Tickets are available by utilizing the Flex Ticket Bundles. All tickets can also be purchased through the Rattlers Front Office (306) 244-2181, Saskatchewan Rattlers website , or via Ticketmaster . Single game tickets will be available later this spring. For more seating options, suites, and group rates; fans can contact an account executive . About the Saskatchewan Rattlers The Saskatchewan Rattlers are Saskatchewan’s professional basketball team, one of the six original teams in the CEBL – the Rattlers won the 2019 inaugural season championship. Playing out of SaskTel Centre in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – the Rattlers offer an entertainment-focused environment surrounded by some of the world’s top professional athletes. The Rattlers are a community-first organization and take pride in their ability to bring communities together while making sport more accessible to the province. For more information - visit therattlers.ca About the Canadian Elite Basketball League (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 73% of its 2023 rosters being Canadian. Players bring experience from the NBA, NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National team program, and top NCAA programs as well as U SPORTS. 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. More information about the CEBL is available at CEBL.ca and @cebleague on Instagram , Twitter , TikTok , LinkedIn , Facebook & YouTube .

FIBA’s streaming platform to deliver vibrant brand of CEBL basketball to global audience

The Calgary Surge have signed Malcolm Duvivier for the 2024 season, the team announced Wednesday. Duvivier is no stranger to the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), having signed as a free agent with the Fraser Valley Bandits (now Vancouver Bandits) in 2020. He called Vancouver home until the end of the 2023 season, where he averaged 10.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 25 minutes in 16 games played. “Malcolm is a veteran in this league now. He brings experience and leadership to our team, while being a versatile and tenacious defender that can disrupt the opposing team’s offensive flow. He can also play-make at a high level and make big shots,” said Surge General Manager Shane James. “He is a guy we’ve had our eyes on the last few years, and we are excited to finally have him on our side.” Duvivier has played 150 games professionally, averaging 14.3 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.2 assists in Canada and overseas: including in Finland, France, in the Basketball Champions League of Americas and in the CEBL. “I have been in this league for a long time and each year is as exciting as the next,” said Duvivier. “I am thrilled to discover a new city, meet my new teammates and get to work.” Fans can now purchase tickets to the team’s season opener at the Scotiabank Saddledome at www.calgarysurge.ca/surge2thedome . About the Calgary Surge The Calgary Surge tipped off their inaugural season at WinSport Event Centre in May 2023, after originating the Guelph Nighthawks, one of the founding members of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). From day one, the Surge have been committed to being the Home Team for Calgary and a space where everyone is welcome. The Calgary 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 sort and entertainment. In their inaugural season, the Surge finished 1st overall in the Western Conference and were crowned Western Conference Champions in the playoffs. For more information, visit www.calgarysurge.ca . About the Canadian Elite Basketball League 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 73% of its 2023 rosters being Canadian. Players bring experience from the NBA, NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National team program, and top NCAA programs as well as U SPORTS. 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. More information about the CEBL is available at CEBL.ca and @cebleague on Instagram , Twitter , TikTok , LinkedIn , Facebook & YouTube .

St. Catharines, ON - The Niagara River Lions announced today the signing of 6’7 Canadian, Elijah Lufile. The 26-year old power forward from Milton, Ontario is currently playing for Joensuun Kataja of the Korisliiga , Finland’s first division league, where he is averaging 12.9 points and 1.4 assists, while leading the team with 10.2 rebounds. “Elijah is a phenomenal young man and basketball player, and we are lucky to have him on our side this summer,” said Head Coach and General Manager, Victor Raso. “One of the areas that we felt like we needed to improve from last summer was rebounding, and the addition of Elijah directly addresses that. He brings a lot to the table – he is physical, a great athlete, he is excellent attacking the rim on the pick and roll, he is improving in the post, but ultimately he is a professional rebounder who can change a game on the boards.” Lufile becomes the second new player added to the 2024 roster after Nathan Cayo, following the announcement of six returning players, Khalil Ahmad, AJ Davis, Eddie Ekiyor, Jahvon Blair, TJ Lall and Kimbal Mackenzie. Lufile began his collegiate career in 2016-17 redshirting as a freshman at Lamar Community College before transferring to Midland College where he played one season averaging 13.6 points and leading the team with 8.1 rebounds, while recording 10 double-doubles in 27 starts. He then transferred to Oral Roberts University in 2019 where in his senior season he averaged 7.9 points and 7.1 rebounds while shooting 71.2% from the field. In 2022 Lufile signed his first professional contract with the Salt Lake City Stars of the G-League where he played in 16 games averaging 5.0 points and 3.2 rebounds. In early 2023 Lufile was selected to represent the CEBL playing for the Brampton Honey Badgers in the Basketball Champions League Americas (BCLA) where he scored 19 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 23 minutes off the bench versus Libertadores de Queretaro. Lufile went on to play for the London Lightning of the National Basketball League of Canada before signing with the Calgary Surge . Lufile split the 2023 Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) season playing 9 games for the Calgary Surge before joining the eventual 2023 CEBL Champions, the Scarborough Shooting Stars . In 11 games with the Shooting Stars, Lufile averaged 4.2 points and 5.5 rebounds while shooting 44.7% from the field. “I’m excited to win with the River Lions!” said Lufile. “They are a championship contending organization and have a great coaching staff. Praise God!” The Niagara River Lions are one of the original six teams of the CEBL . Playing out of Meridian Centre in downtown St. Catharines, the River Lions represent the twelve municipalities of the Niagara Region while living up to the River Lions moniker of pride and strength of community. Season tickets, voucher packs and group tickets are on sale now. Visit www.riverlions.ca/tickets for more information.

LANGLEY, B.C., March 26, 2024 – The Vancouver Bandits announced Tuesday that the club has signed American guard Zach Copeland for its upcoming season at Langley Events Centre (LEC). Copeland is currently in the middle of his fourth professional season, suiting up for Bamberg Baskets in the Basketball Bundesliga, the top division of men’s basketball in Germany and a league renowned for helping produce various NBA players, as well as being regarded as a top 10 league globally in terms of its talent pool. A 6-foot-4 guard from Oakland, Calif., Copeland currently sits fifth in points per game in the Bundesliga, scoring 18.1 points per game while also leading his team in three-pointers made with 83. Rounding out Copeland’s contributions are his four assists and 1.4 steals per game, as well as his 84.4 per cent free throw percentage – all of which are team highs. “I am excited for what is to come this summer; to experience a great city like Vancouver and to contribute to a prominent organization while keeping my game sharp. I am grateful for the opportunity,” Copeland said. Copeland will report to the Bandits following the conclusion of his current European pro season. Exclusive single game tickets for the Bandits’ highly anticipated ‘Home Opener Weekend’ featuring games on Thursday, May 23 and Sunday, May 26 are on sale now at this link . Copeland is one of the international basketball scene’s rising stars. His prior overseas stops include England (2020-21), Ukraine (2021), Finland (2021-22) and Italy (2022-23). A proven scorer with each of his previous clubs, Copeland demonstrated his elite production and reliability by helping Pistoia Basket win the Italian Serie A2 championship in 2023 after averaging 15.7 points per game spread over 40 games; culminating in Pistoia’s promotion to the Italian Serie A top division. “Zach is an elite combo guard who has proven himself at the highest levels in Europe. He has climbed the ladder every year. Zach is a leader and he will definitely enhance our culture. He plays with a ton of passion and energy. I can't wait to get to work with Zach,” said Bandits head coach and general manager Kyle Julius. Copeland has elevated his game throughout his collegiate and professional career. He began his collegiate tenure at City College of San Francisco where he was named Coast-North Conference Player of the Year and the California Community Colleges Men's Basketball Coaches Association Co-Player of the Year following his second season with the Rams in 2016-17. His strong play at the junior college level paved the way for Copeland to transfer to Illinois State University where he played two seasons of NCAA Division I basketball with the Redbirds from 2018-20. In his final year at Illinois State, Copeland emerged as not just the Redbirds’ leading scorer, but one of the top players in the Missouri Valley Conference, leading his team with 14.5 points per game, which also ranked him 7th among conference leaders. The Vancouver Bandits open the club’s sixth season when the club tips off on May 23rd at 7 p.m. for its highly anticipated home opener against the Montréal Alliance. Vancouver will play a total of 10 regular season home games in 2024 between Thursday, May 23 and Thursday, July 18. The Bandits wrap up regular season action on the road against Montréal on Sunday, July 28 at 1 p.m. PT. All CEBL regular season games including playoffs will be live-streamed on TSN+, as well as the CEBL’s OTT platform, CEBL+ , and on CEBL Mobile, the official app of the CEBL (available on Android and iOS devices). Individuals interested in ticket flexibility or purchasing a bundle of tickets are invited to consider a flex pack or season tickets . More information can be found at thebandits.ca/tickets or by speaking with a Bandits representative by calling (604) 455-8881 or emailing [email protected] . A complete regular season schedule can be found by clicking here . 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 Langley Events Centre (LEC). 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 73% of its 2023 rosters being Canadian. Players bring experience from the NBA, NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National team program, and top NCAA programs as well as U SPORTS. 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. More information about the CEBL is available at CEBL.ca and @cebleague on Instagram , Twitter , TikTok , LinkedIn , Facebook & YouTube .

University of Nebraska product returns to Brampton

EDMONTON, AB - The Edmonton Stingers of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced Friday the signing of guard Mike Nuga for the 2024 season. Nuga, a former NCAA Division I athlete at Kent State and UNLV, played two seasons for the Saskatchewan Rattlers in 2022 and 2023. “I am very excited to join the Edmonton family and have the chance to build something in the community, “ said Nuga. “I’m a fan of how coach Baker approached the game as a player and am excited to be able to learn from him as a coach. The goal is a championship, and that’s what I’m giving 110% of my effort to in Edmonton.” Nuga competed in 19 games for the Rattlers in 2023 where he averaged 13.3 points per game, in-part due to an 11 game stretch of double-digit scoring efforts to start the season. In 2022, the Toronto native was named the Rattlers Breakthrough Player of the Year as a professional rookie, appearing in 9 games and scoring 6.4 points per game. “We are very excited to be able to bring Mike to Edmonton for the summer,” said Head Coach and General Manager Jordan Baker. “He is a young professional who is always looking for ways to improve his game, and Stingers fans will love his energy. As a proven scorer and playmaker in the CEBL. Mike is a great addition to our backcourt.” Currently, Nuga is playing in Spain for Caceres CB of the LEB Gold League, averaging 11.3 points across his first four games. He also has professional experience as a member of the London Lightning in 2022-23 and 2023-24; Nuga suited up in 39 games averaging 14.2 points per game in the NBCL and BSL with the Lightning. Prior to turning professional, Nuga was a member of the 2021-22 UNLV Runnin’ Rebels (NCAA DI), playing in 31 games and averaging 6.1 points and 3.0 rebounds. He had transferred from Kent State, where in 2020-21, he put up 17.9 points in 13 games including an NCAA career high 26 points vs Western Michigan on January 9th, 2021. Previous to his DI experience, he played 3 seasons for Eastern Florida JUCO of the NJCAA, making 54 appearances and scoring 11.3 points per game. Originally born in Nigeria, the 6’2” guard grew up in the GTA before heading south of the border where he attend Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School in Indianapolis, Indiana. Nuga and the Stingers will return to the Edmonton EXPO Centre on June 2nd to host the Saskatchewan Rattlers in their home opener. Tickets are available for as low as $20 per seat and can be purchased online or by contacting the Stingers head office via email ( [email protected] ) or phone (1-87STINGERS).  About the Edmonton Stingers The Edmonton Stingers play a 20-game season from May to August in the Canadian Elite Basketball League, the top professional league in Canada with 10 teams in major markets from coast to coast. The Stingers joined the league in its inaugural season in 2019 and have twice been crowned CEBL Champions. The Stingers play in the 3,600 seat Edmonton Expo Centre. Our core value as an organization is to offer affordable, family-friendly fun at our games and be a positive force in our community all year long. About The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) A league created by Canadians for Canadians with a mission to develop Canadian players, coaches, sports executives, and referees. Players bring experience from the NBA, NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National team program, and top NCAA programs as well as U SPORTS. Fourteen players have moved from the CEBL into the NBA following a CEBL season. The CEBL season runs from May through August. More information about the CEBL is available at CEBL.ca and @cebleague on Instagram , Twitter , TikTok, LinkedIn , Facebook and YouTube .