Sea Bears Add Former All-CEBL First Team Forward Shittu
Shittu played in 19 games with Calgary in 2023, earning All-CEBL First Team and CEBL All-Canadian Team honours
The Winnipeg Sea Bears have made a major addition to their frontcourt, announcing Monday the signing of six-foot-10 forward Simi Shittu ahead of the 2025 season. The Britain born but Canadian raised big is known for his dominant rebounding and physical presence, Shittu brings international experience and a decorated career to Winnipeg as the team gears up for a championship push.
“Simi is a go-to big that scores in a variety of ways. His defensive presence and rebounding make him a complete player,” said Mike Taylor, Head Coach and General Manager. “He is a key addition to our team as we rebuild our frontcourt with an eye for championship weekend. He impacts the game on both ends with his athleticism and versatility and has been extremely productive in our league. I think our Sea Bears fans will love to see Simi patrolling the paint this summer.”
Shittu previously played in the CEBL with the Calgary Surge during the 2023 season, where he earned All-CEBL First Team and CEBL All-Canadian Team honours. He led the league in rebounding that year, averaging 9.5 rebounds per game while also contributing 14.6 points per contest. His dominance on the glass was highlighted by a season-high 17 rebounds against the Vancouver Bandits on June 3 while his 32-point, 15-rebound performance against Winnipeg cemented his reputation as one of the league’s most dominant interior forces.
Following his standout CEBL season, Shittu gained further professional experience across Europe, suiting up for top-tier clubs in Turkey, Greece and France.
Shittu’s ability to control the glass and provide an inside presence will be a crucial asset for Winnipeg. The Sea Bears are looking to build on their success from the previous season, and adding an elite rebounder and experienced pro like Shittu helps solidify their frontcourt depth.
“I’m looking forward to playing in what I heard is the best atmosphere in the CEBL,” said Shittu. “Winnipeg has always been a tough place to play, and I’m looking forward to being on the other side of that energy. I’m ready to get to work and help bring a championship to the Sea Bears.”
Shittu’s basketball resume is equally impressive on the international stage. He represented Canada at the 2017 FIBA Under-17 World Cup and was named a McDonald’s All-American in 2018 before playing collegiately at Vanderbilt University.
With his size, athleticism and defensive versatility, Shittu is expected to be a key contributor for the Sea Bears throughout the 2025 CEBL season.
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About the CEBL
A league created by Canadians for Canadians with a mission to develop Canadian players, coaches, sports executives, and referees, the CEBL boasts the highest percentage of Canadian players of any pro league in the country with 75% of its rosters being Canadian and a record 12 players with NBA experience in 2024. Players also bring experience from the NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National team program, NCAA programs, as well as U SPORTS and CCAA. More than 20 players have signed NBA contracts following a CEBL season, and numerous CEBL players attend NBA G League training camps every year. The CEBL season runs from May through August with games broadcast live on
CEBL+,
TSN, TSN+, RDS, Game+ and Next Level Sports & Entertainment. More information about the CEBL is available at
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