Rattlers Relieve Demopoulos of Duties

July 4, 2023

Massey Promoted to Head Coach

Saskatoon, Sask. - The Saskatchewan Rattlers of the Canadian Elite Basketball League announced Tuesday that they have relieved Dean Demopoulos of his duties as the team’s head coach. Assistant coach Tanner Massey has been named head coach for the remainder of the 2023 season. Demopoulos departs with a record of 16-18 since he was appointed to the role prior to the 2022 campaign.

Demopoulos led Saskatchewan to a play-in game in the 2022 CEBL postseason thanks to a league-fifth regular season record (11-9). The team then went on to secure a quarterfinal berth after beating two-time CEBL champion Edmonton Stingers at the SaskTel Centre in Saskatoon, SK. The Rattlers also held a league-best home record, 8-2, in 2022.

“The entire Rattlers organization is grateful for Dean's role in completely turning around the fortunes of the franchise last season,” said Rattlers General Manager Barry Rawlyk. “Unfortunately, we were not able to capitalize on that momentum this season, and it is felt that change is necessary in order for the team to move forward. We wish Dean all the best in all of his future endeavours.”

Massey, a native of South Carolina, has coached numerous NCAA, NAIA, and NBA G League teams. He served as a graduate assistant coach with the University of South Alabama, a video coordinator with the University of South Carolina, and an assistant coach with Union College. While in the NBA G League, he was an assistant coach with Erie Bayhawks, Northern Arizona Suns, and Capital City Go-Go.

Massey joined the coaching staff for the Orlando Magic in the NBA Summer League during the 2015 and 2016 seasons. The Orlando Magic finished as runner-ups in 2015, and took the NBA Summer League Championship in 2016. In 2017, he was hired as an assistant coach by the Hiroshima Dragonflies in the Japanese B League. Massey credits his time in Japan to exposing him to a new style of play and reinforcing the importance of team-oriented basketball.

Massey made his CEBL debut in 2021 serving as assistant coach of the Fraser Valley Bandits (now Vancouver Bandits). The Bandits were 7-7 during the regular season abbreviated by COVID-19. Massey took over for Bandits head coach Dave Singleton (Covid-19 protocols) in the playoffs and led the Bandits to a play-in victory before the team was eliminated by Niagara in the semifinals. In 2022, Massey joined the Rattlers bench as Lead Assistant to Demopoulos. After the 2022 CEBL season, Massey travelled to Finland to join the BC Nokia coaching staff in top level league, Korisliiga. where he coached current Rattlers fan-favorite Malik Benlevi.

“Tanner Massey has been a great addition to the coaching unit both last season and this current one,” said Rattlers Vice President Brad Kraft. “He is involved in the community, and understands that building basketball in the province requires full buy-in starting at the grassroots level. We thank Coach Demopoulos and wish him all the best.”

The Rattlers next action comes Wednesday when Eastern Conference leader Ottawa visits SaskTel Centre. Saskatchewan then travels to Winnipeg to take on the Western Conference leading SeaBears one week from tonight.

The Saskatchewan Rattlers individual game tickets range from $20 in the Rattlers Fan Zone section to $90 for seating in the courtside row 2 (All courtside row 1 offers are sold out), three-games bundles start at $28/seat per game in the bronze section, and half season five-packs start at $35/seat per game in the silver section. All ticket can also be purchased through the Rattlers Front Office (306) 244-2181, Saskatchewan Rattlers website, or via Ticketmaster. For more seating options, luxury suites, and group rates; fans can contact an account executive

All games including playoffs will be live streamed on CEBL’s OTT platform, CEBL+ Powered by BetVictor, and on CEBL Mobile, the official app of the CEBL (available on Android and iOS devices). TSN will showcase live coverage of select CEBL games on TSN and TSN+.

About the Saskatchewan Rattlers

The Saskatchewan Rattlers are Saskatchewan’s professional basketball team, one of the six original teams in the CEBL – the Rattlers won the 2019 inaugural season championship. Playing out of SaskTel Centre in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – the Rattlers offer an entertainment-focused environment surrounded by some of the world’s top professional athletes. The Rattlers are a community-first organization and take pride in their ability to bring communities together while making sport more accessible to the province.

About the Canadian Elite Basketball League (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 71 percent of its 2022 roster being Canadian Players bringing experience from the NBA, NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National program, and top NCAA programs as well as U SPORTS. Nine players have moved from the CEBL into the NBA following a CEBL season, and 28 CEBL players have attended NBA G League training camps during October. The CEBL runs from May through August. More information about the CEBL is available at CEBL.ca and @cebleague on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, & YouTube.

For more information on the Saskatchewan Rattlers professional basketball team - visit therattlers.ca.

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L’Alliance de Montréal annonce la nomination de Mark Weightman au poste de gouverneur

November 14, 2025

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.

Alliance Announce Appointment of Mark Weightman as Governor

November 14, 2025

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.

Former NBA Executive Al Whitley Joins Brampton as Chief Executive Officer

November 12, 2025

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 .

Rattlers Relieve Demopoulos of Duties

Massey Promoted to Head Coach

L’Alliance de Montréal annonce la nomination de Mark Weightman au poste de gouverneur

Alliance Announce Appointment of Mark Weightman as Governor

Former NBA Executive Al Whitley Joins Brampton as Chief Executive Officer

Indochino Chairman and CEO Drew Green Joins Shooting Stars Ownership Group

Le Surge de Calgary nommé franchise de l’année 2025 de la LECB

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Les Bandits de Vancouver reçoivent le prix d’excellence communautaire pour une deuxième année consécutive.

Vancouver Bandits Earn Community Champion Award for Second Straight Year

Rattlers Relieve Demopoulos of Duties

Massey Promoted to Head Coach

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