‍TORONTO, Ont. (May 24, 2022) – Canada Basketball and the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) on Tuesday unveiled plans for the two organizations to continue working closely together in building the game domestically. 

Both organizations recently committed to the following strategic priorities to grow the game of basketball, both on and off-the court, in Canada.

Bringing more basketball to fans across the country

With recent changes to the FIBA competition calendar, Canada will be in a position to host more international basketball games on home soil than ever before. Increased hosting opportunities present a unique opportunity for both organizations to not only bring more basketball to a passionate fan base here in Canada, but also introduce the sport to new fans across the country. The CEBL is entering its fourth season on May 25 with ten teams coast-to-coast. The season will comprise of a record 107 games in 74 days. Whether it’s the CEBL’s Championship Weekend being held in Ottawa from August 12 - 14, or as announced Tuesday, partnering to host a FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers game, both organizations are committed to bringing more first-class basketball experiences to Canadians nationwide.  

Personal and professional development opportunities

One of the many benefits of a domestic professional league in Canada is the opportunity for players, coaches, support staff, executives and officials to continue advancing their careers in basketball here at home.  Not only does the CEBL offer the chance for Canadian players to play professionally in Canada but also serves as a pathway to remain involved in the game as they transition into the next phase of their basketball career as an executive, coach, official and more.  The two organizations will collaborate to create even more opportunities for Canadians to gain meaningful employment experience in the game they love after their playing days have ended.  

Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion through UNIFIED 2024 integration

Launched in April 2021, UNIFIED 2024 is a multi-year program designed to lead Canada Basketball’s equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives and establish the organization as a leader within the Canadian sports industry by 2024.  Continuing to advance equity, diversity and inclusion across the CEBL remains a priority and the organization is committed to working closely with Canada Basketball to adopt several strategic commitments.  Additionally, the CEBL recently committed to hiring an equity, diversity and inclusion lead to not only further guide the organization but represent the league as a member of Canada Basketball’s Unified 2024 Advisory Council.

A league created by Canadians for Canadians, the CEBL has the highest percentage of Canadian players of any professional league in the country, with 75 percent of its current rosters being Canadians. Players bring experience from the NBA, NBA G League, top international leagues, the Canadian National team program, and top NCAA programs as well as U SPORTS. The only First Division Professional League Partner of Canada Basketball, the CEBL season runs from May through August.