Vancouver Bandits Announce First-Ever Pro Combine For Local University Student-Athletes

L’Alliance de Montréal a annoncé aujourd’hui la signature du pivot américain Michael Hughes II, un joueur robuste et expérimenté qui apporte production, efficacité et impact défensif au sein de la formation. Originaire de Liberty au Missouri, Hughes II (6 pi 8 po) se joint à l’Alliance après quatre saisons professionnelles à l’international, notamment en Allemagne, en Hongrie, en Autriche, en Lituanie et en Argentine. À travers ces ligues, il s’est bâti une réputation de joueur fiable dans la raquette, reconnu pour son travail au rebond, sa protection du cercle et son efficacité offensive. Lors de la saison 2025–2026 avec les SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt, dans la ligue ProA en Allemagne, Hughes II a maintenu des moyennes de 12,1 points, 7,1 rebonds et 1,7 passe décisive en 23,1 minutes par match, tout en affichant un taux de réussite de 55,0 % au tir. Il a signé plusieurs solides performances au cours de la saison, dont un match dominant de 23 points et 12 rebonds, tout en ayant un impact constant des deux côtés du terrain. En 2023–2024, Hughes a poursuivi son parcours en Argentine, en Allemagne et en Lituanie. À travers ces ligues, il a affiché des moyennes de 9,2 points, 5,7 rebonds et 1,8 passe décisive par match, tout en conservant une excellente efficacité au tir et en contribuant dans différents rôles. « Je suis très enthousiaste à l’idée de me joindre à l’Alliance de Montréal et de jouer devant des partisans aussi passionnés », a déclaré Hughes II. « J’ai une grande fierté d’apporter de l’énergie, un style de jeu physique et à faire tout ce qu’il faut pour aider l’équipe à gagner. J’ai hâte de me mettre au travail. » Avant de faire le saut chez les professionnels, Hughes II a évolué à l’université Duquesne, où il s’est imposé comme un joueur intérieur constant dans la conférence Atlantic 10. À sa dernière saison, il a maintenu des moyennes de 10,8 points et 7,9 rebonds par match, offrant une présence fiable près du panier. « Michael est un joueur qui apporte beaucoup d’expérience, de robustesse et de polyvalence à notre groupe », a déclaré le copropriétaire et directeur général de l’Alliance, Joel Anthony. « Il a fait ses preuves dans plusieurs ligues et sait comment avoir un impact constant sur le jeu. Sa présence physique et son jeu dans la peinture seront des atouts importants pour notre secteur intérieur. » Hughes II devrait ajouter de la profondeur, du jeu physique et une présence défensive importante à l’alignement de l’Alliance en vue de la saison 2026. -REPMTL - À propos de l’Alliance de Montréal L’Alliance de Montréal est une équipe professionnelle de basketball évoluant dans la Ligue élite canadienne de basketball (LECB), la principale ligue estivale de basketball au Canada. L’organisation s’engage à offrir un basketball de haut niveau ainsi qu’une expérience engageante aux partisans de Montréal et de partout au Québec. Les billets pour la saison 2026 sont maintenant en vente. L’Alliance disputera son match d’ouverture local le 15 mai à 19 h 30 à l’Auditorium de Verdun face à Scarborough. Pour plus d’information ou pour vous procurer des billets, visitez basketmtl.ca.

The Montreal Alliance announced today the signing of American center Michael Hughes II, a physical and experienced frontcourt presence who brings proven production, efficiency, and defensive impact to the roster. Hughes, a 6-foot-8 native of Liberty, Missouri, joins the Alliance following four professional seasons competing internationally in Germany, Hungary, Austria, Lithuania, and Argentina. Across those leagues, he has built a reputation as a dependable interior player, known for his rebounding, rim protection, and efficient scoring. During the 2025–26 season with SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt in Germany’s ProA league, Hughes averaged 12.1 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 23.1 minutes per game while shooting 55.0% from the field. He delivered multiple strong performances throughout the season, including a dominant 23-point, 12-rebound outing, while consistently impacting the game on both ends of the floor. In 2023–24, Hughes showcased his versatility by competing across Argentina, Germany, and Lithuania. Across those leagues, he averaged 9.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, maintaining efficient shooting while contributing in multiple roles. “I’m excited for the opportunity to join the Montreal Alliance and compete in front of such a passionate fan base,” said Hughes. “I take pride in bringing energy, physicality, and doing whatever it takes to help the team win. I’m ready to get to work.” Before turning professional, Hughes played at Duquesne University, where he developed into a reliable and efficient frontcourt player in the Atlantic 10. Over his collegiate career, he was recognized for his consistent interior scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking ability. In his senior season, he averaged 10.8 points and 7.9 rebounds per game, providing a steady presence for the Dukes. “Michael is a player who brings toughness and versatility to our group,” said Alliance Co-Owner and General Manager Joel Anthony. “He’s proven himself across multiple leagues and understands how to impact the game consistently. His physicality and presence in the paint will be a strong addition to our frontcourt.” Hughes is expected to add depth, physicality, and strong defense to the Alliance frontcourt as the team prepares for the 2026 season. ### About the Montreal Alliance The Montreal Alliance is a professional basketball team competing in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), Canada’s premier summer basketball league. The organization is committed to delivering high-level basketball and an engaging experience for fans in Montreal and across Quebec. Tickets for the 2026 season are now on sale. The Alliance will kick off its home season on May 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the Verdun Auditorium against Scarborough. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit basketmtl.ca.

The Winnipeg Sea Bears today announced the club has signed forward Jeremiah Tilmon Jr. for the upcoming Canadian Elite Basketball League season. The 6’10” forward is no stranger to the CEBL, having previously played for the Hamilton Honey Badgers in 2022 and 2023. In his debut CEBL season, Tilmon Jr. led the league in field goal percentage at 63.9 percent and ranked fifth in blocks per game while helping Hamilton claim the CEBL championship in 2022. He followed that up in 2023 by shooting 61.1 percent from the field, ranking second in the league and securing 1.5 blocks per game ranking him fourth in league blocks. "The addition of Jeremiah gives our group an experienced winner up front,” says Head Coach and General Manager Mike Raimbault. “We are looking forward to his ability to play with physicality and lead from the centre position." Most recently, Tilmon Jr. was selected to represent his country on the USA Basketball Men’s World Cup Qualifying Team in both 2025 and 2026. Tilmon Jr. spent the 2025–26 NBA G League season with the Wisconsin Herd, averaging 6.1 points and 4.2 rebounds in 18.8 minutes per game. He has spent time with the Lakeland Magic, Raptors 905, and Greensboro Swarm, and has logged professional experience in Canada, China, the Dominican Republic, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Romania, and the United States across his six-year career. In 2024 with the Greensboro Swarm, Tilmon Jr. secured a professional career high of 27 points and 16 rebounds. Tilmon Jr. played collegiately at the University of Missouri from 2017 to 2021, finishing his career as the sixth Mizzou player ever to record 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, and 100 blocks. He earned Second Team All-SEC honours in his senior season and was named the SEC Player of the Week during his sophomore year. ###

La Ligue élite canadienne de basketball (LECB ) a annoncé aujourd’hui le renouvellement du partenariat officiel avec la Société des loteries et des jeux de l’Ontario (OLG) pour une troisième saison consécutive. Au cours de la saison 2026, OLG continuera de rehausser l’expérience des partisans de la LECB partout en Ontario. Grâce au partenariat d’OLG avec la LECB et ses quatre clubs ontariens – les Honey Badgers de Brampton, les River Lions de Niagara, les BlackJacks d’Ottawa et les Shooting Stars de Scarborough – LOTTO MAX sera de nouveau la loterie officielle de la LECB, le partenaire présentateur de la Conférence de l’Est ainsi que des séries éliminatoires de la Conférence de l’Est. PROLINE demeure le site officiel de paris sportifs au détail de la ligue et de ses quatre équipes basées en Ontario. « Ce fut une année remarquable pour LOTTO MAX et PROLINE, et nous sommes impatients de poursuivre sur cette lancée avec les partisans de la LECB cette saison, a déclaré Andrew Darley, vice-président, produits de loterie chez OLG. Le renouvellement de ce partenariat nous permet de démontrer notre appui à l’Ontario, tout en rehaussant l’expérience des partisans et en célébrant leur passion pour le sport. » Ce mois-ci, le nouveau LOTTO MAX a été lancé avec davantage de prix à gagner et des lots pouvant atteindre 90 millions de dollars. Plus tôt cette année, OLG a lancé une nouvelle plateforme PROLINE, offrant une expérience de jeu améliorée, avec davantage de choix et de façons de jouer. Grâce à des promotions en match axées sur les partisans, les amateurs de la LECB pourront découvrir ces nouveautés et voir comment, en jouant avec OLG, ils contribuent à redonner aux personnes et aux communautés partout en Ontario. « OLG entretient un engagement de longue date envers les collectivités de l’Ontario, ce qui s’aligne parfaitement avec ce que nous bâtissons dans la LECB, a déclaré le président et directeur général de la LECB, Ty Mazereeuw. Ce partenariat soutient la croissance continue de notre ligue tout en créant davantage d’occasions pour les partisans de partout dans la province de se rapprocher du jeu. » Pour consulter le calendrier complet de la saison 2026 de la LECB, visitez cebl.ca/fr-ca/games . Les détails concernant le nouveau format des séries éliminatoires sont disponibles au cebl.ca/playoffs , et l’information sur la billetterie se trouve au cebl.ca/fr-ca/tickets . - LECB - À propos de la Ligue élite canadienne de basketball La Ligue élite canadienne de basketball (LECB) est la ligue professionnelle de basketball au Canada. Elle regroupe 10 clubs membres répartis dans six provinces et mise sur un talent d'élite, un rythme de jeu soutenu et des liens étroits avec les communautés pour offrir une expérience estivale unique aux partisans partout au pays. Avec la plus jeune base de partisans du sport professionnel au Canada — dont la moitié a moins de 34 ans — et une audience de près de 4,1 millions de Canadiens, la LECB affiche l'une des croissances les plus rapides du pays. Cet engouement reflète la capacité de la ligue à proposer un produit dynamique et captivant, à tisser un lien durable avec une nouvelle génération de partisans et à contribuer à l'essor du basketball au Canada. Sur le terrain, la LECB incarne la rencontre entre performance d'élite et talent local. En 2025, 17 joueurs ayant de l’expérience dans la NBA ont évolué dans la ligue, tandis que près de 70 % des effectifs étaient composés de Canadiens — la plus forte proportion de talent local parmi toutes les ligues professionnelles du pays. Présentée de mai à août, la saison offre un rendez-vous estival rassembleur, marqué par un jeu rapide, une ambiance électrisante et le meilleur du basketball canadien. À propos d’OLG OLG est un organisme de la Couronne qui contribue à faire de l’Ontario un meilleur endroit où vivre en offrant à sa clientèle des expériences de divertissement de grande qualité. Dans le respect des principes de responsabilité sociale, OLG exploite et gère des établissements de jeu terrestres, offre des loteries à l’échelle de la province, propose des jeux en ligne, et assure la prestation du bingo et d’autres produits de jeu électroniques dans les centres de jeu caritatifs. OLG contribue également au soutien de l’industrie des courses de chevaux en Ontario. Depuis 1975, OLG redonne à la population ontarienne en générant près de 64 milliards de dollars au profit de la province afin de soutenir des priorités gouvernementales clés, notamment les soins de santé, la prévention et le traitement du jeu problématique, ainsi que le soutien aux athlètes amateurs. Chaque année, les profits générés par les activités d’OLG bénéficient également aux collectivités hôtes, aux Premières Nations de l’Ontario, aux détaillants de loterie et à des organismes de bienfaisance locaux partout dans la province.

Today, the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced the renewal of Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation's (OLG) official sponsorship for a third consecutive season. During the 2026 season, OLG will continue to enhance excitement for CEBL fans across Ontario. Through OLG’s sponsorship of the CEBL and its four Ontario clubs – the Brampton Honey Badgers, Niagara River Lions, Ottawa BlackJacks and Scarborough Shooting Stars – LOTTO MAX will once again serve as the Official Lottery of the CEBL and the presenting partner of the Eastern Conference and Eastern Conference Playoffs. PROLINE remains the Official Retail Sportsbook of the league and its four Ontario-based teams. "It’s been an exciting year for both LOTTO MAX and PROLINE, and we’re looking forward to bringing that momentum to CEBL fans this season,” said Andrew Darley, VP Lottery Product at OLG. “Continuing our sponsorship gives us an opportunity to showcase our support for Ontario, while also leveling up the fan experience and celebrating their love of sport.” Just this month, the new LOTTO MAX launched with more prizes to win and jackpots that can grow up to $90 million. And earlier this year, OLG rolled out a new PROLINE platform providing a better playing experience with more choice and more ways to play. Through fan-centric, in-game promotions, CEBL fans can learn about these upgrades, and how by playing with OLG, they are helping give back to people and communities across Ontario. “OLG has a long-standing commitment to communities across Ontario, and that aligns perfectly with what we’re building at the CEBL,” said CEBL President and CEO Ty Mazereeuw. “This partnership supports the continued growth of our league while creating more ways for fans across the province to connect with the game.” For the full 2026 CEBL schedule, visit cebl.ca/schedule . Details on the league’s new playoff format are available at cebl.ca/playoffs , and ticket information for all CEBL games can be found at cebl.ca/tickets . - CEBL - About the Canadian Elite Basketball League The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) is Canada’s professional basketball league, featuring 10 member clubs across six provinces. Powered by elite talent, a fast-paced game format, and deep community connections, the CEBL delivers high-level basketball and unforgettable summer experiences for fans nationwide. The league boasts the youngest fan base in Canadian professional sport, half under 34, and one of the fastest-growing audiences in the country, now reaching nearly 4.1 million Canadians. This momentum reflects the CEBL’s ability to deliver dynamic, thrilling gameplay while connecting authentically with a new generation of fans and expanding basketball’s cultural footprint across Canada. The CEBL is where elite performance meets homegrown talent. In 2025, 17 players with NBA experience hit the court, while nearly 70% of the league’s roster was Canadian, the highest concentration of domestic talent in any professional sports league in the country. Running from May through August, the CEBL has become a proven pathway for top basketball talent and a summer hub for fast-paced, high-energy fan excitement. About OLG OLG is a crown agency that contributes to a better Ontario by delivering great entertainment experiences for our customers. Acting in a socially responsible way, OLG conducts and manages land-based gaming facilities; the sale of province-wide lottery games; Internet gaming; and the delivery of bingo and other electronic gaming products at Charitable Gaming Centres. OLG is also helping support the horse racing industry in Ontario. OLG has been giving back to Ontario since 1975, generating approximately $64 billion for the people and the Province to support key government priorities like health care; the treatment and prevention of problem gambling; and support for amateur athletes. Each year profits from OLG's operations also support host communities, Ontario First Nations, lottery retailers and local charities across the province.

The Saskatoon Mamba of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today the team has signed Canadian and Long Island University Sharks standout, Jamal Fuller, for the upcoming 2026 CEBL season. The Toronto, Ontario product is signing the first professional contract of his career with the Mamba after a strong and productive collegiate campaign in the NCAA. The 6-foot-5 guard started 33 of 34 games in 2026 and was selected for the 2026 All-NEC First Team. In 2026, Fuller finished first on the team in average points (16.2 per game) and rebounds (5.5 per game), while finishing third on the team in assists (2.6 per game) – showcasing his playmaking and scoring capabilities. “Jamal adds a high level of skill and competitiveness to our roster,” said Isaiah Fox, Head Coach of the Saskatoon Mamba. “What stands out just as much is his willingness to compete and make an impact defensively.” In his final collegiate season, Jamal Fuller delivered an efficient and impactful campaign, shooting 51 percent from the field and 43 percent from beyond the arc while scoring 20 or more points in over a third of his games, including a season-high 26-point performance. His consistent production played a key role in helping lead LIU to a NCAA postseason appearance. Fuller’s performance also earned conference recognition, as he was named NEC Co-Player of the Week during the 2025–26 season after averaging 21 points, 4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists across a two-game stretch. His standout efforts included a 19-point performance against Le Moyne and a 23-point, 6-assist outing versus Central Connecticut State, showcasing his ability to impact the game across multiple facets. Fuller expressed excitement about beginning the next chapter of his career back in Canada. “I’m just excited to be a part of the Mamba family and looking forward to growing as a player and doing whatever it takes,” he said.  In addition to his high impact on the offensive side of the floor, Fuller impacted the game defensively throughout his five-year collegiate career, recording 68 steals (1.0 per game) and 61 blocks (0.9 per game) – displaying his strong two-way play capabilities. Fans can expect Fuller to bring a high level of scoring, defense, and a winning mindset to the new era of basketball in Saskatoon, blending established excellence with a renewed vision for the future. ### About the Saskatoon Mamba The Saskatoon Mamba (previously Saskatchewan Rattlers) tipped off their inaugural season at SaskTel Centre in May 2019 and went on to win the inaugural Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) championship. The Mamba are active members of the community, participating in countless events that connect the team with diverse communities through sport, entertainment, and arts and culture. The team has restored over 100 basketball nets across the city to make basketball more accessible to youth. For more information, visit saskatoonmamba.ca.

The Edmonton Stingers of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced Monday the signing of American guard-forward Au'Diese Toney. Toney spent the 2025-26 season competing for the Noblesville Boom, the Indiana Pacers G League affiliate where he played 29 games, starting 17. Toney averaged 11.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 44.1 per cent from three-point range. “I’m excited to be in Edmonton and to rep and play for the stingers,” said Toney The six-foot-six guard-forward has spent three seasons competing in the NBA G League. Toney began his G League career with the Osceola Magic during the 2022-23 season before moving on to play with the Grand Rapids Gold in 2023-24 season. "Au'Diese is a really exciting piece that we have added to the Stingers lineup,” said Head Coach and General Manager Jordan Baker, “He had a great year in the G-League, and we are looking for him to play a big role on both ends of the floor for us. The combination of length, athleticism, and shooting is something I think the fans in Edmonton can get excited about. He is a versatile player who will be relied upon to make big plays from day one!" Toney played 4 years of NCAA basketball, playing three years for The University of Pittsburgh , and his final season in Arkansas with the Razorbacks in 2022. Toney is set to make his CEBL debut when the stingers open their season at home against the Winnipeg Sea Bears on May 9th. ###

The Vancouver Bandits announced Tuesday that guard Shamar Givance will return to the club for the 2026 Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) season, re-signing for his second consecutive season with BC’s professional basketball team. A 5-foot-10 guard originally from Brampton, Ont., Givance averaged 7.6 points, 3.0 rebounds and 4.4 assists during the 2025 CEBL regular season while appearing in all 24 regular season games with 10 starts. Both a playmaker and dynamic scorer, he tied the franchise’s single-game assist record on May 24, 2025 with 15 assists and closed out the regular season with a pair of 20+ point performances on July 8 and July 10, 2025. “Shamar is an elite Canadian guard. His pace, vision, and ability to finish elevates everyone around him, along with his selfless play and competitive fire. He was a cornerstone of our success last season and we’re fired up to have him back,” said head coach and general manager Kyle Julius of Givance. Givance is currently playing in France with Champagne Basket Reims of the Pro B League and will report to the Bandits at the conclusion of his season overseas. He is currently averaging 10.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.2 steals and 23.1 minutes in 31 games played. “I’m incredibly excited to be back in Vancouver this summer, the energy from the fans last season was unreal,” said Givance. “I can’t wait to get back on the court with the Bandits and get to work on some unfinished business.” Givance began his post-secondary basketball career at the University of Evansville from 2018 to 2022, where he earned All-Missouri Valley Conference Second Team honours in 2021. He then transferred to the University of Texas El Paso for his graduate season in 2022-23 where he averaged the third-most assists and steals per game in Conference USA and ranked eighth in program history with 62 steals in a single season. Fans will get their first chance to watch the Bandits’ new-look roster in a charitable preseason game on Saturday, May 9 at 5:00 p.m. at Envision Financial Court at Langley Events Centre when the club faces the Sikh Warriors from ESPN’s The Basketball Tournament. Preseason tickets are on sale at this link , with proceeds benefitting the Bandits Community Foundation. The Bandits open the 2026 CEBL regular season on Thursday, May 14 at 9:30 a.m. PT on the road in Saskatoon before coming home for its Home Opener against the Edmonton Stingers on Friday, May 22 at 7:00 p.m. PT at Envision Financial Court at Langley Events Centre. ### 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 Envision Financial Court at Langley Events Centre (LEC), while also being committed to growing the game of basketball by fostering meaningful community connections through youth programming, events, and partnerships.

The Calgary Surge of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today that guard Brandon Muntu has signed with the team for the 2026 season, marking his first professional campaign in the league. Muntu brings versatility, energy, and a strong two-way presence to the Surge roster as Calgary continues to build a competitive lineup heading into the new season. “Brandon is an exciting addition for us,” said General Manager Shane James. “He’s a high-motor player who competes on both ends of the floor and brings a level of toughness and athleticism that fits our identity.” A 6’4” guard, Muntu is known for his length, defensive instincts, and ability to contribute to multiple areas of the game. His rebounding, transition play, and physical style give Calgary added depth and flexibility on the wing and in the frontcourt. “I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to join the Calgary Surge. Being from Calgary, this means a lot to me, and I’m excited to represent my city,” said Muntu. “I’m looking forward to competing, growing with the team, and giving the fans something to be proud of this season.” Muntu joins the Surge following his collegiate career at Tennessee Tech University, where he competed at a high level in NCAA Division I basketball. During the 2025–26 season, he averaged 9.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game, while shooting 41.8 percent from the field. His production reflected his ability to contribute offensively while maintaining a strong defensive presence and high level of effort. Throughout his college career, Muntu developed a reputation as a reliable and disciplined player, capable of guarding multiple positions and contributing within a team-first system. His experience in a competitive program has prepared him well for the transition to the professional ranks. Prior to Texas Tech, Muntu played two seasons at Western Michigan, including a 2024–25 campaign where he appeared in all 32 games and averaged 5.7 points, while earning multiple academic honors. He previously starred at Triton College, earning NJCAA Third Team All-American honors in 2022–23, and began his collegiate career at Vincennes University. A Canadian native, he developed at Dohn Prep Academy and has participated in Canadian National Team training camps at the U16, U18, and U23 levels. With Muntu’s addition, the Surge continue to strengthen their roster with young, driven talent as they prepare for the 2026 CEBL season. ### About REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. & the Calgary Surge REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. (REAL) is a professional sports and live entertainment company co-founded by Jason Ribeiro that owns and operates the Calgary Surge Professional Basketball Club and REAL Studios. The Calgary Surge tipped off their inaugural season at WinSport Event Centre in May 2023, after originating as the Guelph Nighthawks, one of the founding members of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). The 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, entertainment, and arts and culture. Over three seasons, the Surge have made three straight CEBL Championship Weekend appearances, were crowned Western Conference Champions in 2023 and 2025, hold the league’s single-game attendance record, and have sent over 6500 deserving kids and families to their games for free. For more information, visit www.calgarysurge.ca