CEBL NEWS ARTICLES

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). ###

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 .

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 .

The Vancouver Bandits and Bandits Sports & Entertainment (BSE) have announced that Milan Mann, President of The BM Group, has joined the Bandits ownership group. A prominent figure in BC’s construction and real estate ecosystem, Mann has spent over a decade at the helm of the locally-owned construction firm. The BM Group represents a portfolio of construction services, project management, material supply and land development companies. Headquartered in British Columbia and primarily serving the Lower Mainland, The BM Group also has expanded operations and significant holdings in other parts of Canada, the USA and South East Asia. "It is a privilege and a dream come true to give back to the sport and community that have given me so much. Basketball is a powerful unifier, a vital part of every community’s infrastructure and cultural fabric,” said Mann. “As a community partner and season ticket holder for a few seasons, I have seen the Bandits embody that spirit. The in-game energy and passion from Bandits fans prove that the CEBL is not just entertaining but engaging, competitive, and growing fast, with the Bandits leading that charge. I am grateful to join the team led by Bryan Slusarchuk, Kevin Dhaliwal and Dylan Kular, and to contribute to the Bandits’ vision on and off the court. With our fans, partners, and community, we have the opportunity to grow the game, strengthen our culture, and inspire the next generation. Go Bandits." Mann joins Kevin Dhaliwal, Founder and President of Essence Properties, and Bryan Slusarchuk, Co-Founder of K92 Mining Inc. and Principal of SluzCap, in the Bandits ownership group. Since purchasing the Vancouver Bandits in February 2022 , Dhaliwal and Slusarchuk have helped guide the club through meaningful progress both on and off the court. “Milan is the definition of a builder, not just in business but in community,” said Dylan Kular, President, Vancouver Bandits. “He believes in the power of sport to unite people and elevate a region. He has been in our building, he has been in our community, and he has seen firsthand what Bandits Basketball means to this province. Milan coming on board is more fuel to our mission: to grow the game, elevate basketball in BC, and create a franchise our province is proud of. We are thrilled to welcome him into the ownership group as we take our next step.” This announcement comes on the heels of the Bandits earning five CEBL Business Awards in the past two seasons, including the Digital Excellence Award (2024), Community Champion Award (2024 & 2025), Executive of the Year (2025, Dylan Kular) and Franchise of the Year (2025). The Bandits are regarded as one of the premier franchises in the CEBL, also earning back-to-back CEBL basketball awards, including Most Valuable Player (2024, Tazé Moore; 2025, Mitch Creek), Canadian Player of the Year (2024, Koby McEwen; 2025, Tyrese Samuel) and Coach of the Year (2024 & 2025, Kyle Julius). Season Tickets and Jam Packs are on sale now for the upcoming 2026 season, slated to tip off in early May. More information can be found at thebandits.ca . ### 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 Bandits Sports & Entertainment (BSE): Bandits Sports & Entertainment (BSE) is a partnership built around the core belief that sports have the power to unite and inspire communities. BSE’s mission is to create meaningful connections across BC through year-round collaborations with partners that share a common goal of using arts, culture and sports to celebrate and showcase the passion of our fans. The Vancouver Bandits are the fastest growing staple in BC’s professional sports and entertainment ecosystem and are the founding brand under the umbrella of BSE. Each summer, the Bandits welcome fans to the world-class Langley Events Centre for CEBL competition and a riveting presentation of Canada’s top homegrown and professional athletes.

The Montreal Alliance is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Weightman as Governor of Montreal’s professional basketball club in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). With over 30 years of experience in professional sports, Weightman returns to a role he previously held from 2021 to 2023. In his new position, he will oversee the strategic direction of the organization and ensure the continued strengthening of its foundations as the team prepares to enter a new stage of growth within Quebec’s professional sports landscape. Now entering its fifth season in the CEBL, the Alliance embarks on a phase defined by ambition, stability, and long-term success. "The addition of Mark to the organization is a crucial step in the growth of the Montreal Alliance,” said Léo Bouisson, co-owner of the team since January 2025. “There are very few people in Quebec with as much experience and expertise in the world of professional sports and live events.” “We have clearly reached a new level of maturity, and the future of our professional basketball franchise is now taking shape with clarity and optimism for the years ahead,” added co-owner Ian-Philip Paul-Hus. An experienced leader in professional sports Renowned for his strategic vision and ability to build and revitalize sports organizations, Mark Weightman has worked across several professional leagues, notably in football and hockey. President and CEO of the Montreal Alouettes on two occasions (2013–2016, 2023–2025), he also devoted 23 years of service to the organization, leading several major initiatives including the expansion of Percival Molson Stadium and the organization of the 2001 and 2008 Grey Cups in Montreal. Beyond football, Weightman led the Laval Rocket (AHL) and Place Bell from 2018 to 2020, then oversaw the creation of the Trois-Rivières Lions (ECHL), an affiliate of the Montreal Canadiens, which he presided over from 2020 to 2023. He was instrumental in bringing professional basketball to Montreal and spearheaded the creation of the Montreal Alliance franchise in 2021, marking the CEBL’s expansion into Quebec. His expertise has also been sought internationally, where he contributed to the restructuring of top-tier hockey clubs in Switzerland (National League) and Sweden (Swedish Hockey League). A return driven by passion and continuity “I am proud to return to the Montreal Alliance, an organization that I helped build and that has tremendous potential,” said Mark Weightman. “Basketball is experiencing phenomenal growth in Quebec, and our goal is to establish the Alliance as a lasting pillar in Montreal’s sports landscape.” About Mark Weightman In addition to his role as Governor of the Alliance, Weightman also works as a consultant, supporting various professional sports organizations in their development, governance, and commercial strategy.

The Brampton Honey Badgers of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today that Al Whitley, former NBA executive and general manager of the Texas Legends (NBA G League affiliate of the Dallas Mavericks), has joined the franchise as chief executive officer (CEO). Whitley brings more than two decades of experience in professional basketball, having spent 22 years within the Dallas Mavericks organization, where he helped drive basketball operations at the highest level. His leadership has been defined by his commitment to creating a winning culture, fostering relationships, and developing talent on and off the court. Born in Belleville, Ontario and raised in Victoria, British Columbia, Whitley discovered his passion for basketball alongside childhood friend and NBA legend Steve Nash. After playing college basketball at the University of New Brunswick, Whitley began his professional career with the Dallas Mavericks in 2001 in their marketing department, before quickly transitioning to basketball operations. As a special advisor to former Mavericks Majority Owner Mark Cuban, Whitley played a pivotal role in the franchise’s success, including its historic 2011 NBA Championship. That experience, he says, gave him firsthand insight into “what it truly takes to build and sustain a championship team and culture.” In 2017, Whitley was named general manager and vice president of basketball operations for the Texas Legends, where he oversaw all aspects of the organization - from basketball operations and scouting, to business development and community engagement - leading the team to its first-ever playoff win. “I am incredibly grateful and excited for this opportunity to help lead the Brampton Honey Badgers back to championship form - both on the court and in the community,” said Whitley. “I want to sincerely thank our owner, Leonard Asper, for his trust and commitment. Being born and raised in Canada, this is a full-circle moment for my family and me. Coming back home to help guide, develop, and grow the Brampton Honey Badgers of the CEBL is not only an honour - it’s a privilege and a challenge I wholeheartedly embrace.” Throughout his NBA career, Whitley has worked with some of the game’s most influential figures, including Mark Cuban, Donn Nelson, Rick Carlisle, Donnie Nelson and legendary players such as Steve Nash, Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Kidd, Vince Carter, and Luka Dončić. “When I acquired the Honey Badgers, I committed to creating a winning team that also serves as a pillar of its community,” said Leonard Asper, owner of the Brampton Honey Badgers. “Al Whitley’s track record and reputation leave me no doubt that he is the right person to fulfill that mission. We are extremely fortunate that he is making this commitment to Brampton, and I thank him for his trust in us.” As CEO, Whitley aims to elevate the Honey Badgers organization both competitively and culturally - building a championship-caliber roster, enhancing fan engagement, and strengthening the team’s ties within the community. Honey Badgers fans can look forward to an exciting offseason filled with community events leading up to the 2026 CEBL season tip-off in May. Details on 2026 season ticket packages will be announced soon. ### 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 .

Entrepreneur and Canadian business leader joins franchise ownership group ahead of the 2026 season

Surge, Bandits each capture two of league’s annual Business Awards

Three-time winner recognized for continued leadership, innovation, and impact on and off the court

New foundation, expanded youth programs, and cultural initiatives highlight a landmark season of community impact led by the Bandits

2025 CEBL Business Award winners to be unveiled from October 27-30

Canada’s top pro basketball league and its first Commissioner and Co-Founder part ways following a successful eight-year tenure

The Ottawa BlackJacks of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today the appointment of Jason Winters as the club’s new president. Winters joins the BlackJacks having served as the general manager of Myers Kanata Nissan since 2019. A highly respected business leader in the Ottawa community. He and his family have also owned and operated multiple Booster Juice franchises across the Capital Region. A long-time BlackJacks season ticket holder, Winters brings a deep passion for basketball along with a proven track record of building authentic partnerships and delivering meaningful value to stakeholders. “As someone who has been in the stands as a proud season ticket holder and fan of the BlackJacks, it has been incredible to watch the growth and awareness of the team and the CEBL in Canada,” said Winters. “Stepping into the role of President to lead this team and serve our community is something that my family and I are honoured to do. I am excited and committed to building on the foundation the BlackJacks have already established with integrity, passion and a deep respect for our fans and the Ottawa community.” In his new role as President, Jason will lead the BlackJacks into an exciting new era - strengthening community ties and enhancing the club’s impact both on and off the court as the team continues to grow its presence in the CEBL and across the Ottawa region. “We are proud and privileged to welcome Jason into this leadership role,” said Justin Pascoe, CEO of Diamond Sports Canada. “As a long-standing member of the Ottawa community, he brings a wealth of professional experience, a reputation for excellence and strong family values that have earned him widespread respect throughout the region.” “Jason’s leadership, integrity and lifelong passion for basketball make him the ideal person to guide the BlackJacks into an exciting new chapter,” continued Pascoe. “He embodies the values we want this club to stand for and has a true connection to our fans and community. Together, we will make the BlackJacks a team that our fans, sponsors and city can be proud of on and off the court” A graduate of Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology, Winters lives in Old Ottawa South with his family, Sherry, Archer, Zoe and Nevaeah. Season seat packages for the 2026 campaign are now available online at theblackjacks.ca/season-seat-memberships . ###

Michelle Biskup paced nervously along the sidelines of Winnipeg’s Canada Life Centre. As Niagara’s Khalil Ahmad stepped to the free-throw line with the 2025 CEBL championship in his fingertips, Biskup couldn’t help but battle flashbacks from one year earlier, when Ahmad missed a shot to win it all. Some things were different: the locale, for one. The River Lions’ path to the Final (one much more fraught this time around), for two. And, of course, Biskup’s title, now president of the franchise. One thing, though, did not change. No matter what happened, Biskup could not control what happened on the court. At least not at this point. “I've gone through the highs, I've gone through the lows, but I just stay even keel until I know it's over,” said Biskup, who has now been with the River Lions for 10 years. Ahmad, of course, went on to make those free throws, clinching the River Lions’ second consecutive championship and matching the Edmonton Stingers as the only teams to win multiple titles, let alone go back-to-back. With the trophy, Biskup became the first female president to win a Canadian men’s professional sports title. Detroit Red Wings president Marguerite Norris (1954, 1955) and Los Angeles Lakers boss Jeanie Buss (2020) have also accomplished the feat in the U.S. “Michelle has been a CEBL all-star since day one and has shown incredible commitment, leadership, and perseverance throughout her career with the River Lions,” said CEBL commissioner and co-founder Mike Morreale. “To watch her help guide the team to back-to-back championships while also breaking new ground as the first female president to do so in Canadian men’s pro sports is nothing short of remarkable. She’s a trailblazer in every sense and has earned this tremendous recognition.” “It's a milestone to have my name stamped on history while also showing other young females in sports who are dreaming of having a career in sports that it's attainable,” Biskup said. “It's not something that can't be done because now they can see someone who's done it.” Biskup, the 35-year-old from Burlington, Ont., was a Day 1 staffer of the River Lions 10 years ago when she held the title of operations coordinator. The job only came about through a coincidental meeting with the River Lions owners, when Biskup pitched herself on a whim and suddenly found herself moving from her first job out of school in the entertainment department at Fallsview Casino to a professional basketball organization. Steadily since, she’s risen the ranks until being promoted to president in September. And in her first season atop the organization, she lifted it atop the CEBL. “We really put 12 months into it: into something that we can't control the outcome of as front-office staff. So to have that full-circle moment from last year where, yes, I was involved, I was still a very big part of it as VP, but then for everything that I put into this past year, building a new culture in our office, hiring new staff, making some big changes. It really was like, ‘OK, this made it all worthwhile,’” she said. “There's no greater feeling than winning at the end of the day. There's a reason why everyone wants to win. That's the best, ultimate feeling.” Biskup said the team is almost unrecognizable from when she first started a decade ago — especially when she looks at the Meridian Centre crowd and the River Lions fan base. But even more has changed since she took over as president. Biskup hired team captain Kimbal Mackenzie as community and brand ambassador in a CEBL first — an idea that was born late last off-season and one she hopes will truly take flight now. Meanwhile, she signed head coach Victor Raso to a three-year contract lining up with a three-year Meridian Centre lease, locking in two key aspects of the team. “Knowing that Vic's going to be here every year, or at least for the next three, we can depend on that, that we're going to have that returning group that helps us be successful on the court,” said Biskup, who credited the coach for maintaining season-to-season continuity in a league where that’s rare. “It helps us be successful off the court too, right? It's great for our sales staff to be able to call people and say, we're back-to-back champions or we have their favourite players returning. So that consistency is really big.” Raso has worked next to Biskup for the past eight years. “I've seen her go from doing absolutely everything to doing absolutely everything as the president,” he said. The coach described Biskup as “incredibly hard-working,” saying she’s created a culture of “doers” while keeping the atmosphere light and fun with plenty of laughs. He added that he’s always coordinated closely with Biskup, with whom he enjoys a strong two-way relationship of trust. “Michelle and I always talked about what we were doing on a day-to-day basis, but never from the perspective of she's my manager. So for her and I, it was a cool experience this year. She's always let me do my thing with the basketball and trusted me with decisions and budgets and everything,” he said. To Raso, Biskup is the “lifeblood” of the River Lions. “She can run a professional sport organization like with her eyes closed now. And I don't think people really understand how much actually goes into that,” he said. Now, Biskup’s next task is one that’s never been done before: win three straight championships. After last season’s motto was ‘Run It Back,’ Biskup said conversations are already underway about next year’s slogan, with the word dynasty being thrown around. “That's definitely the goal for us to make that next stamp on history is being the first team to do a three-peat,” she said. It’s a topic with which Biskup is now quite familiar. - CEBL -

Stingers Entertainment Group LP (SEG), owner of the Edmonton Stingers and co-owner of the Canadian Elite Basketball League, announced Thursday that Jordan Baker has assumed the role of President of the organization. Baker will continue to be Head Coach and General Manager of the Stingers. He has also become a part owner of SEG. “I am both excited and humbled to become the leader of not just our team but our whole business,” said Baker. “Edmonton has been such a huge part of my life and to be able to advance my basketball and business career right here at home means the world to me. Our fan support has grown tremendously over the past three seasons and I am determined to continue to widen our impact across the city in the years to come.” Baker has been front and center with the Stingers from day one. First, as a standout forward on the floor from 2019-2022. His accolades as a player include two CEBL Championships and the 2020 CEBL Canadian Player of the Year award. He retired in 2022 as the franchise all-time leader in total points and rebounds, the latter a title which he still holds. Baker took on the role of Head Coach in 2023 and added the General Manager title in 2024. Following the 2024 season, Baker was promoted to full-time Head Coach and General Manager and took on the role of Vice President of Basketball Operations and Community Engagement - where he launched the Stingers flagship community program the Basketball Bridge presented by Sterling Homes. “It is not unusual for individuals who have been star athletes to become great coaches and general managers”, said James Burns, Managing Partner of SEG LP. “But to also rise to head the entire business operations as well as basketball is almost unheard of. Jordan is a uniquely talented basketball expert and business executive and we are very fortunate he has chosen to sign on with the Stingers for the long term”. Jordan Baker has been at the apex of basketball in Edmonton since a young age, playing for the Harry Ainlay Titans and later the University of Alberta Golden Bears, where he remains the all-time leader in points, rebounds, assists, and steals across 98 games played. He received his Master of Coaching from the U of A, and later spent four years as an assistant coach, accumulating a 78-21 record. This fall, Baker was inducted into the University of Alberta Sports Wall of Fame as part of the 2025 class. Hailing from a prevalent basketball family deeply rooted in the Edmonton community, Baker is the son of Doug and Trix Baker. Doug was a Golden Bear from 1974-1977, where he was a three-time team MVP and Canada West All-Star. He retired with five program records, including scoring average and single season scoring average. Trix was also a standout player at the U of A, being named an All-Canadian with the Pandas in 3 seasons. After her standout playing career, she would head coach multiple CCAA and CIS programs, including U of A. Both Trix and Doug are also members of the U of A Sports Wall of Fame. Baker will begin his role as President immediately as the team prepares for their eighth season tipping off in spring 2026. During the Stingers offseason, Baker and the Stingers will remain an active force in the community with their Basketball Bridge program, offering accessible, youth-focused basketball programming year-round. ### About the Edmonton Stingers The Edmonton Stingers play a 24-game season from May to September in the Canadian Elite Basketball League, the top professional league in Canada with 10 teams in major markets across the country. 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.

CEBL all-time leader in games played and minutes played closes chapter on playing career

Following the conclusion of Jo-Annie Charbonneau's contract at the end of the 2025 season, the Montréal Alliance announces that she will leave the organization at the end of September to pursue new opportunities in the sports industry. Jo-Annie contributed significantly to the Alliance's development, notably organizing Canada's first-ever professional 5x5 outdoor basketball game and leading through the ownership transition. The organization thanks Jo-Annie for her dedication and wishes her the best in her future endeavors. The Alliance will proceed with changes to its leadership structure. Details will be communicated shortly. We remain committed to our fans, partners, and the Montréal community as we continue building a premier professional basketball organization. ###

The Winnipeg Sea Bears announced today that Jason Smith will be transitioning out of his role as President over the coming months. Smith helped establish the franchise and led the Sea Bears through its first three seasons. When Smith was first engaged to guide the due diligence process, finalize the franchise deal, and bring the Sea Bears to life, he committed to dedicating himself fully to the team for its crucial early years. With that three-year commitment coming to an end this fall, Smith will step back from day-to-day duties in order to rebalance his professional life, including devoting more time to his company, Smith Events, while maintaining a strong connection to the Sea Bears. Under a new agreement, Smith will remain with the organization in a consulting capacity, focusing on a variety of strategic projects and continuing to provide guidance and expertise as the team enters its next phase of growth. Team Owner and Chairman David Asper will serve as President and Chief Executive Officer as the Sea Bears restructure. “We’re all very fortunate that three years ago Jason agreed to set aside a very successful business and stable personal life and commit all his energy to launching the Sea Bears, which we knew would be all-encompassing and chaotic”, said David Asper. “He’s a co-founder of the team, always will be, and I look forward to continuing our relationship with big goals yet to achieve.” “It has been an honour to serve as President of the Sea Bears and to help create something so special for the city and province,” said Smith. “I look forward to supporting David and the team through this transition and into the next chapter, while also returning focus to Smith Events and other projects that allow me to contribute in new ways.” This transition sets the stage for the next phase of the Sea Bears’ growth, as the team continues to strengthen its place in the local and national professional sports landscape. ### About the Winnipeg Sea Bears: 
The Winnipeg Sea Bears are a professional basketball team in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), proudly representing Winnipeg and Manitoba on the national stage. Since their debut, the Sea Bears have become a community leader, delivering top-tier basketball and fan experiences while contributing to the growth of the sport across Canada.

The Ottawa BlackJacks of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), Canada’s largest professional sports league, announced today that the club has been acquired by Diamond Sports Canada Inc., a subsidiary of Global Sports Fund Management Group. The group is owned by Bandeli (Lee) Hagipantelis and Justin Pascoe, who also serves as Chief Executive Officer. Pascoe brings more than 20 years of executive experience in elite-level sports administration. He holds an MBA from Melbourne Business School and has completed additional studies at Harvard University. Throughout his career, he has consistently elevated the profile of organizations across the sports, consumer products, automotive, and industrial sectors. In Australia, Pascoe has held senior leadership positions across multiple major sports, and he brings a global perspective through his work in private equity and the sports industry across North America and Europe. In addition to his role with Global Sports Fund Management Group, he also currently serves as Owner of the Newcastle Jets, an Australian soccer club competing in the A-League. Based in Newcastle, New South Wales, the club is currently preparing for the Final of the Australia Cup. "I feel incredibly privileged to be afforded the opportunity to help build a franchise that the entire community can be proud of,” said Pascoe. “This process has been nearly eight months in the making, and throughout that time, it’s become clear to me that the CEBL and the Ottawa BlackJacks represent a sleeping giant in the Canadian sports landscape.” Added Pascoe, “Our focus is on creating a basketball franchise that fosters authentic engagement across all stakeholders — fans, community members, government, and corporate partners alike. We believe that by bringing our global operating experience to the table, we can complement the hard-working and talented staff here and help elevate the organization to new heights. This goes beyond just the BlackJacks. It’s about collaborating with Mike and the CEBL to drive league-wide awareness, deliver unforgettable experiences for fans, and create a sustainable, thriving league that embraces a growth mindset — one that aims to position Canadian basketball as a force on the global stage." Diamond Sports Canada Inc. takes over ownership of the club from Canadian Basketball Ventures LP who had stewarded the team since their inception in 2020. They will serve as the first privately funded group with an ownership stake in the BlackJacks and the first international owners in CEBL history with their base of operations being located in New South Wales, Australia. “Justin Pascoe and the Diamond Sports Canada Inc. group bring valuable international perspective and a wealth of sports business experience and sophistication to the Ottawa BlackJacks,” said Mike Morreale, Commissioner & Co-Founder of the Canadian Elite Basketball League. “Their ownership strengthens both the team and the league as we continue building a sustainable model for professional basketball in Canada. The group’s commitment to innovation, community engagement, and long-term growth perfectly aligns with the CEBL’s vision for what our teams represent, and we truly value the extension of our ownership table beyond Canada.” Transition of team operations will begin immediately, with the seventh season of Ottawa BlackJacks basketball set to kick off in May 2026 at The Arena at TD Place . ### 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 James Derouin and Head Coach Dave DeAveiro, Ottawa plays its home games out of the world-class Arena at TD Place in Lansdowne Park. For more information, visit theblackjacks.ca .