The Ottawa BlackJacks are poised for an exciting 2025 season in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) under the leadership of General Manager James Derouin and new Head Coach David DeAveiro. The season kicks off on Sunday May 18th at 3 p.m. with a home game at TD Arena against the defending champions, the Niagara River Lions.
The 2024 Ottawa BlackJacks. Photo Pedro Decimus
The Ottawa BlackJacks have started a new era with the appointment of Mark Wacyk as Team President, whose deep-rooted passion for Canadian basketball is evident through his past roles, including assistant coaching the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees to a Wilson Cup championship and founding the Garnet and Grey 6th Man Club, a basketball alumni chapter. He has also volunteered as a basketball coach with Ottawa-area teams the Guardsmen and Shooting Stars. His leadership is expected to strengthen the BlackJacks’ presence both on and off the court as he brings with him 35 years of entrepreneurial experience across industries such as sports, technology, and finance.
Head Coach David DeAveiro has been recognized with nine Coach of the Year awards during his university coaching career. He spoke about the city and the team , saying “The Capital Region has a rich history of basketball excellence and I am proud to lead the Nation’s Capital professional franchise. I am excited about the future of the Ottawa BlackJacks franchise and am honoured to lead this team going forward as we strive towards our ultimate goal of winning a CEBL championship.”
DeAveiro was previously an assistant coach for the Blackjacks in the 2020-2021 season, and he is a graduate of the University of Ottawa where he played for five seasons and coached for nine.
Isaih Moore. Photo by Pedro Decimus
The team has brought back many of its players this season, including several franchise record-holders who are set to make a major impact once again, such as Tyrell Tate and Deng Adel. Fans can look forward to seeing some familiar faces along with some new faces to add firepower to the Ottawa team. The inclusion of development players Ankit Choudhary and Owen Kenney from the University of Ottawa reflects the team’s commitment to nurturing local talent.
The team will be looking to improve on the results of last season where they ended with a record of 9 wins and 11 losses, placing 3rd in the eastern conference.
Flexible ticket packages are currently available for purchase online. Season-seat memberships for the 2025 season are also on sale. For additional details, fans can email ticketing@theblackjacks.ca or call 613-690-0519.
Keevan Veinot of the Ottawa Blackjacks. Photo Pedro Decimus
Returning Stars and New Additions:
- Tyrrel Tate: A consistent presence since the team’s inception, Tate brings veteran leadership and a deep understanding of the BlackJacks’ culture. The all-time franchise leader in games played and three-point field goals returns for his third season with the team
- Deng Adel: The franchise’s all-time leading scorer is back for his fourth season. Adel is on the cusp of becoming the team’s career leader in assists and rebounds, needing just three and four more, respectively. His leadership and versatility remain invaluable assets.
- Tevin Brown: After leading the team in scoring (17.2 PPG), three-pointers (3.6 per game), and minutes (31.4) last season, Brown returns as a key offensive weapon. His clutch performances earned him the Clutch Player of the Year Award, and he continues to shine internationally, averaging 16.2 PPG across European leagues this year.
- Isaih Moore: Rejoining the BlackJacks after topping the team’s scoring charts with 15.7 PPG and ranking second in the CEBL for rebounds (8.3 per game) last season. Moore’s high-energy play and efficiency (58.1% FG) make him a fan favorite.
- Miryne Thomas: After a late-season addition in 2024, Thomas made a significant impact, scoring double digits in three of seven games. His versatility and energy are expected to contribute greatly this season.
- Nikola Djogo: The 6’8″ guard from Hamilton, Ontario, brings championship experience, having won the CEBL title with the Brampton Honey Badgers in 2022. His versatility and leadership are expected to bolster the BlackJacks’ backcourt.
- Matt Coleman III: A dynamic point guard with experience in the NBA G League and overseas, Coleman is anticipated to bring playmaking and scoring prowess to Ottawa’s offense.
- Zane Waterman: Joining his former teammate Djogo, Waterman adds size and scoring ability to the frontcourt, aiming to replicate their previous championship success.
- Meshack Lufile: A returning forward with a strong physical presence in the paint, Lufile adds toughness, rebounding, and veteran grit to the frontcourt. His experience across multiple CEBL seasons brings valuable consistency and leadership to the team.
- Alain Ndjock-Tadjoré: Back for another year, the Ottawa native adds depth at the guard position with his hustle and defensive tenacity. A product of the local basketball system.
- Malcolm Jackson: A seasoned guard with previous CEBL experience and a stint in the NBA Summer League, Jackson brings scoring instincts and professional poise. His shooting and decision-making under pressure make him a strong backcourt asset.
- Ryan Rohlehr: Known for his shot-blocking and rim protection, Rohlehr offers a defensive anchor off the bench. His previous CEBL experience gives the BlackJacks added depth in the frontcourt rotation.
- Thomas Williams: Bringing previous CEBL experience, Williams is a versatile player capable of contributing on both ends of the floor. His length and athleticism give the BlackJacks more options on the wing.
- Shakur Daniel: Fresh off a G League run with the San Diego Clippers, Daniel adds youthful energy and dynamic guard play. His ability to push the pace and pressure the ball defensively fits well into Coach DeAveiro’s system.
- Keevan Veinot: A poised and intelligent guard, Veinot returns to provide stability and playmaking. His calm demeanor and ability to control tempo are crucial in late-game situations.
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The Ottawa BlackJacks play at TD Arena. You can buy tickets online or at the TD Arena Box Office beginning at $35. Accessible seating is available.
