Sea Bears Deepen their Leadership Team

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). ###

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 .

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.

L’Alliance de Montréal annonce la nomination de Mark Weightman au poste de gouverneur de l’équipe professionnelle Montréalaise de la Ligue Élite Canadienne de Basketball (LECB). Fort de plus de 30 ans d’expérience dans le sport professionnel, Weightman effectue un retour dans ce rôle, qu’il a déjà occupé de 2021 à 2023. Dans ses nouvelles fonctions, il assurera la direction stratégique de l’organisation et veillera à consolider les fondations d’une équipe prête à franchir une nouvelle étape de sa croissance dans le milieu sportif professionnel québécois. Entrant dans sa cinquième saison au sein de la LECB, l’Alliance entame une phase de maturité marquée par l’ambition, la stabilité et la réussite à long terme. “L’ajout de Mark à l’organisation est un pas crucial dans la croissance de l’Alliance de Montréal”, souligne Léo Bouisson, copropriétaire de l’équipe l’Alliance depuis janvier 2025. “Il y a peu de monde au Québec avec autant d’expérience et d’expertise dans le monde du sport professionnel et de l’événementiel” “On a manifestement gagné en maturité, et l’avenir de notre franchise de basketball professionnel se dessine avec clarté et optimisme pour les années à venir” ajoute le copropriétaire Ian-Philip Paul-Hus. Un leader d’expérience dans le sport professionnel Reconnu pour sa vision stratégique et sa capacité à bâtir et relancer des organisations sportives, Mark Weightman a œuvré dans plusieurs ligues professionnelles, notamment au football et au hockey. Président et chef de la direction des Alouettes de Montréal à deux reprises (2013-2016, 2023-2025), il y a consacré 23 années de service, durant lesquelles il a piloté plusieurs projets majeurs, dont l’agrandissement du Stade Percival-Molson et l’organisation des Coupes Grey de 2001 et 2008 à Montréal. Au-delà du football, Weightman a dirigé le Rocket de Laval (LAH) et la Place Bell de 2018 à 2020, puis a mené le lancement des Lions de Trois-Rivières (ECHL), équipe affiliée au Canadien de Montréal, qu’il a présidée de 2020 à 2023. Il a aussi joué un rôle déterminant dans la création et l’implantation de la franchise de l’Alliance de Montréal en 2021, concrétisant l’expansion de la LECB au Québec. Son expertise a également été mise à profit à l’international, où il a contribué à la restructuration de clubs de hockey de première division en Suisse (National League) et en Suède (Swedish Hockey League). Un retour motivé par la passion et la continuité « Je suis très heureux de revenir au sein de l’Alliance de Montréal, une organisation que j’ai contribué à bâtir et qui a énormément de potentiel, » a déclaré Mark Weightman. « Le basketball connaît une croissance phénoménale au Québec, et notre objectif est de positionner l’Alliance comme un pilier durable du paysage sportif montréalais. » À propos de Mark Weightman En parallèle de son rôle de gouverneur au sein de l’Alliance, il agit également à titre de consultant, accompagnant diverses organisations sportives professionnelles dans leurs projets de développement, de gouvernance et de stratégie commerciale.

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