A Sneak Peek into the Excitement of the 2025 Canada Games
- david-harmon
- Aug 5
- 11 min read
Updated: Aug 7
Next week, the 2025 Canada Games will kick off in St. John's, Newfoundland, showcasing some of the brightest stars in men's basketball representing their respective provinces. Like last year, The Maple Minute will tweet live updates and provide daily highlights of standout players. First, let’s preview the tournament and highlight some players you’ll want to familiarize yourself with as the games begin.
The teams are listed in the order they finished at the 2024 national tournament in Toronto.
As is the norm in national competitions, Ontario is loaded with talent despite missing some of the biggest names. Even without players like Isaiah Hamilton, Maxime Meyer and Stefan Ilic, Ontario has assembled a team of long, athletic prospects that every post-secondary institution in Canada and the United States will be watching. Coach Tyrone Bramble's biggest problem will probably be distributing playing time.
Player to Watch:
Submitted by Josh Millican - Ontario based Scout for The Maple Minute
2027 Jayvion Tyndale (5'8) - The Montverde Academy product is back on home soil, ready to leave a serious mark on this event. After cooking pro-level players at the Toronto Pro-Am this past week, I project Tyndale to have his way with the peer-level competition at Nationals.
2027 Godson Okokoh (6'9) - Hard to guard is an understatement for Okokoh; there won’t be many prospects in this event that can match his physicality in the paint & sheer athleticism on the floor. I expect him to be a walking double-double every game. I’m pushing my chips all in on Okokoh.
2028 Kenyon St. Louis (6'2) - After a very impressive showing for Team Canada, I project St. Louis to dissect the competition for Team Ontario. The experience alone playing on the international stage should propel him to the top of the Assist leaderboard, especially considering the scoring power on this roster.
David’s Prediction – Based on this roster, the gold medal is Ontario's to lose. In five years, we will look back and remember watching some of these guys when they are competing for their respective NCAA teams during March Madness.
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BC, under the leadership of Coach Matt MacKay, will be looking to continue the amazing run that last year's squad started. They possess a lot of size and skill, which will provide them with opportunities to match up well with the other provinces. They will need to develop chemistry quickly, as the roster features players from many clubs, which could be something to watch.
Players to Watch:
Submitted by Esher Sira - British Columbia based Scout for the Maple Minute
2027 – Jack Snead (6’6) - A highly touted prospect since grade 9, Jack is a freight train who finishes strong at the rim thanks to his impressive size. Opponents will need to watch their heads, as he is known for dunking over anyone when given the chance.
2028 – Joe Linder (6’1) - The ‘floor general’ has been playing senior basketball since grade 8, leading his Dover Bay squad to win the provincial championship in 2024. He has been lighting it up on the Under Armour Circuit for Vancouver Sports Club, and you can expect him to be the leader of this team as they aim for gold.
2028 - Illia Maydan (6'7) - He is an absolute menace all over the court at 6'7. Maydan rebounds hard and blocks shots while having the ability to handle the ball and pass.
David’s Prediction – While this team has a lot of talent, I do not believe this will be their year. They may struggle in the power pool and could face Manitoba in the quarterfinals, where I think they will lose.
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Alberta, under Coach Matt Daley, had a strong showing at the 2024 nationals but suffered a heartbreaking loss to Ontario in the semifinals, ending their gold medal chase. This year, they may have assembled even more talent than the 2024 squad, welcoming back three players from last season. This team is long and athletic, so expect them to excel in transition and put on an impressive display.
Players to Watch:
2027 – Deng Ngor (6’7"): A key player from last year, Deng will be the team's leader. Having just finished his year at Fort Erie, he has received several Division 1 offers. He is an excellent rebounder, capable of shooting from long range and finishing above the rim.
2028 – Liam Mitakaro (6’2"): After recently representing the Canadian U16 team, the Iowa United prospect looks to build on his all-star selection at last year's U15 nationals. He plays with a high basketball IQ and intensity at both ends of the court, which will help his team pursue gold.
UPDATE Aug 6/25 - Liam is out with injury
2027 – Lemar Shir (6’3"): This talented guard from Edge Prep is primed for a breakout summer. As a true point guard, he uses his ability to change pace to make the game easier for his teammates.
David’s Prediction – I’ve thought Alberta would win the gold all summer, but then Ontario released their roster. This is a very talented Alberta squad that, in most years, would be the favorite. I see them making it to the finals but ultimately settling for silver.
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Quebec has always produced athletes, and this year is no exception; they will compete with everyone and get up and down the floor. With several athletic big men on the roster, they will rebound at a high pace and get out into transition. The roster is built with size, athleticism, and speed.
Players to Watch:
Submitted by J.M Poulard - Quebec based Scout for the Maple Minute
2027 Daven Larosiliere (6'2) - This guard is a solid ball handler who is coming off a great season with Fort Erie Academy. He has a lightning-quick step that will leave many defenders in the rear-view mirror.
2027 Patrick Bucovesan (6'6) - Newly committed to Phelps prep in Malvern, PA, he will show his versatility throughout the tourney. His first step, athleticism, and ability to finish over defenders at the rim will all leave scouts and fans in awe.
2028 Youri Warren (6'5) - The Iowa United big man may appear undersized, but the lefty is a bruiser inside. His ability to seal defenders for deep post catches and soft touch around the rim is a problem that other provinces will have to game-plan for.
David’s Prediction – Quebec's roster is filled with talent, showcasing how much basketball has grown in Canada. They should have an exciting match against BC for third place in the power pool, but they will likely face a strong Nova Scotia or Manitoba team in the quarterfinals, which they should win, setting up a great semi-final with Alberta.
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Players to Watch:
2027 – Settimo Yugo (6’9") - His game continues to grow, and he will look to continue expanding his winning after leading his high school team to an undefeated provincial title this season. He is a smooth athlete who just knows how to finish around the basket, and the ball finds him on rebounds.
2028 - Terry Ogbeide (6'5) - another member of the provincial champions, Terry has a physicality to his game that is well beyond his years. A standout at U15 nationals last year, he has continued to grow his game and should be someone other teams will have to account for.
2028 - Daniel Rom (6'2) - He is the sharpshooter for this Manitoba team and will be looking to keep the floor spread for his teammates. He is excellent at utilizing his teammates' screens and moving to find his openings. Also, watch for his defensive presence, and he locks in to create turnovers and get out on the open floor.
David’s Prediction – This is a talented Manitoba squad that will make a big run in this year's tournament. They will be challenged in pool play by the hosts from Newfoundland. I think they will win their pool, setting up a quarterfinal matchup with Quebec or BC, which they can win and get themselves into the bronze medal game.
This year’s Nova Scotia team brings a fresh and exciting identity, significantly different from last year's group. Built on length, athleticism, and skill, this team is characterized by versatility, grit, and unity. Despite coming together quickly, the players have developed strong chemistry and a commitment to compete for one another. Each individual brings unique strengths to the court, creating a dynamic and cohesive unit with the potential to make a major impact.
The favourite in Pool C, Nova Scotia’s depth has them poised for a medal run. They’re led by Team Canada U17 World Cup point guard and NCAA hopeful, Amari ”Buckets” Upshaw, who also played for Orangeville Prep. He’s joined by Rothesay Netherwood‘s Cohen McDonald, 6’5 Edge Prep product Travae Jones, Armbrae Academy sharp shooter Ollie Nadeau and beefy Travarius Carvery, a matchup nightmare in the backcourt. Last but not least, keep an eye on returning PG Deion Coward, younger brother of NCAA superstar Kellen Tynes. — Andrew Sharpe
Players to Watch:
Submitted by Andrew Sharpe - Atlantic Canada based Scout for the Maple Minute
2027 – Amari Upshaw (6’5"): One of the brightest up-and-coming stars in Canadian basketball, Amari has returned home for the summer to compete with this team. After playing for CIA Bella Vista in Phoenix, AZ, he aims to elevate his teammates and lead them to a medal.
2027 – Oliver Nadeau (6’4"): His two-way game is crucial for the team. He prides himself on his defensive abilities and is a strong, athletic guard who can score from all three levels while making smart decisions with the ball and locking down the opposition’s top offensive threats.
2027 – Deion Coward (6’4"): Deion can heat up quickly and score in bursts, with range from beyond the arc and the strength to finish through contact. He was very effective off the bench at nationals last year and is looking to step into a much larger role following in the footsteps of his big brother Kellen Tynes.
David’s Prediction – This team possesses impressive talent, and I believe they will make a strong run. They should be able to win their pool and will give a tough challenge to whoever they meet in the quarterfinals. They will put up a fight, but probably won't advance.
After finishing 7th at the 2024 Nationals, Coach Nav Burke is determined to see his team improve in the standings this year in St. John’s. Saskatchewan will have a new roster, as none of the 2008 players made the national roster last year, but chemistry and cohesion will be key to their success.
Players to Watch:
2027 - Jakob Jungswirth (6'9) The big man from Martensville, SK, has made a splash this summer, demonstrating his ability to be a dominant rebounder and shot-blocker. It will be exciting to see how he matches up against other talented bigs in this tournament.
2027 - Raph Mutongolo (6'2). This defensive guard was impressive for Holy Cross, helping them secure the Sask 5A provincial title last season. His ability to lock down top guards will be seriously tested, and we hope the work he has put into improving his shooting pays off.
2027 Zane Litzenberger (6'1) The dual-sport star from Prince Albert will be at the forefront of Saskatchewan’s offensive attack. He is an aggressive player who will put pressure on opposing defenses during transition.
David’s Prediction - While Saskatchewan has some talented players, they lack size outside of Jungswirth, which could hinder their success. I predict they will finish third in their pool and play in a challenging crossover game.
The hosts have been preparing for this moment for the past four years, and Canadian basketball legend Carl English is ready to lead his team to success. The players have participated in the CE23 program, traveling around the U.S. and to Spain this summer for preparation. They return many players from last year’s squad and aim to make a strong run at home.
No longer an easy out, host Newfoundland are returning several players from last year’s Nationals, including #91 John Purchase, #10 Jacob Sheppard, and Orangeville Prep guard, #23 Ryder English. Newfoundland are coached by Ryder’s father, 20 year pro, Carl English, and are a legitimate threat to win Pool B. — Andrew Sharpe
Players to Watch:
Submitted by Andrew Sharpe - Atlantic Canada based Scout for the Maple Minute
2027 Ryder English (6'3) - highlighted as a standout player at nationals last year, and he led the U15 tournament in scoring the previous season. After spending this year at Orangeville Academy, the shifty guard will take on a significant role in leading his team.
2027 Jacob Sheppard (6'3) - Another returning standout, he impacts the game defensively by being versatile enough to guard multiple positions.
2028 Brody Buckle (5'11) - A new addition to the squad, this small, agile guard can hit shots from well beyond the arc, helping to maintain spacing for his teammates.
David’s prediction -Coach Carl English has put together an interesting squad with their sights set on this tournament. While I don’t believe they will make it past the quarterfinals—especially since I think Manitoba will win their pool—if they can secure an early win against Manitoba, a medal run could potentially be within reach.
AUS Coach of the Year Darryl Glenn's squad is ready to make some waves by playing smart and disciplined basketball. While the boys from Canada's smallest province know they are the underdogs, they will be prepared to scrap and make teams work against them.
Players to watch:
Submitted by Andrew Sharpe - Atlantic Canada based Scout for the Maple Minute
2026 Rayner Glenn (6'4) - as a 2007-born player, he is one of only a couple of overagers that will be competing in the tourney. Committed to joining USPort powerhouse Carleton next season, he will be looked at to provide leadership and keep his squad competitive in all their games.
2028 Josh Lawlor (6'3) - he is a shooter and will be letting the ball fly all weekend. Coach Glenn is very high on him and tells me to keep an eye on this 16-year-old.
New Brunswick brings a team that will bring a tough, physical defense to the court. They have multiple ball handlers that will look to get the ball out in transition and limit turnovers to keep games close.
Players to watch:
Submitted by Andrew Sharpe - Atlantic Canada based Scout for the Maple Minute
2027 Alex Peacock (6'6) - The big man is a physical presence who does a little bit of everything. Watch for him to use his impressive strength to get position and punish players on the block. He also has a very good handle and isn't afraid to beat his defender from the perimeter and score through contact.
2027 Teddy Worley (6'4) - The leader for this team as the only returning player, he will be counted on to make high-IQ plays and to break pressure from the opposition. He won't be afraid to take big shots.
2027 Westin Clark (6'2) - Look for him to slash to the rim and get out in transition. He is a high-energy player who thrives on being a defender and taking on the tough matchups.
David's Prediction - They will have a huge game early against Saskatchewan that will be very important in seeding. Look for them to come out on top of that game and make a run to the quarterfinals
REST OF THE FIELD
Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Nunavut
We were unable to get a comprehensive preview from these smaller squads, but we expect them all to be well-coached and scrappy. Led by some amazing coaches, these squads can not be overlooked, especially early in pool play
David’s Prediction - While I don’t foresee any of these teams reaching the quarterfinals, I’m keeping an eye on NWT to possibly pull off an upset during the week, as the players mentioned could create some chaos.
Where is Paul Osaruyi?
Joe Linder is 2028