More than two weeks after dominating the Honey Badgers 88-66 at Verdun Auditorium in their May 18 season opener, the Montréal Alliance travels to the CAA Centre for the rematch under vastly different circumstances. This 11 AM school day game, organized specifically for students from the Greater Toronto Area, marks the first road trip of the season for a Montréal squad that has had ample time to prepare.

An Unusual Preparation

Unlike their opponents who have been grinding through games since the season began, the Alliance finds itself in a unique situation. While Brampton plays its sixth game of the campaign and most CEBL teams have already contested between four and six matchups, Montréal will be playing just its second official game. 

This extended break presents both advantages and challenges for Jermaine Small’s squad. On one hand, the Alliance has been able to fine-tune its systems and address details identified from the season opener. On the other, they lack competitive rhythm against opponents who have already found their groove.

The Arrival of Tavian Dunn-Martin

The most significant development during this preparation period has been the acquisition of American point guard Tavian Dunn-Martin. The 27-year-old veteran, arriving after a standout season in Holland (18.5 points, 5.5 assists), will make his Alliance debut. His experience across Europe’s elite leagues - France, Netherlands, Slovenia - brings a new dimension to Small’s rotation.

“Tavian represents exactly the type of high-level player we’ve been targeting,” said Jole Anthony upon the announcement. The former Florida Gulf Coast star (21.4 points per game in his final collegiate season) has had the luxury of training with the team since his signing, easing his integration. 

Brampton in Crisis Mode

The Honey Badgers enter this rematch in dire straits. At 0-5, they remain the only winless team in the CEBL after playing five games in two weeks. Their offensive struggles are glaring: just 78.4 points per game, worst in the league. 

This accumulation of games has allowed some players to find their rhythm, but has also exposed the team’s weaknesses. Quinndary Weatherspoon, absent from the season opener in Montréal, has since returned to the lineup and posts impressive numbers: 19.5 points, and 6.5 assists per game. His matchup with Dunn-Martin at the point guard position promises to be captivating. 

Koby McEwen, the 2024 CEBL Canadian Player of the Year, struggles to find his shooting touch (14.8 points on 34% shooting) despite five appearances. The Toronto native, held to 15 points in the loss in Montréal, must elevate his game against an Alliance defense that contained him effectively. 

Prince Oduro, the franchise record holder for rebounds (319) and blocks (55), remains a constant threat in the paint. His battle with Dontay Bassett, who posted an impressive double-double (14 points, 11 rebounds, 4 blocks) in their first meeting, will be crucial.

Alliance Fresh and Sharp

Montréal arrives in Brampton with a physical and mental freshness few teams possess at this stage of the season. The season-opening victory against these same opponents revealed several encouraging elements, notably Quincy Guerrier’s dominance (21 points, 10 rebounds) as he appears perfectly comfortable in his star player role. 

This preparation period has also allowed the Alliance to work on details. Ben Stevens, impressive during the Éclipse match with 16 points on perfect 8-for-8 shooting, has been able to build on his renewed confidence. Liam Rietschin, who had his first taste of action during the Éclipse game (2 rebounds, 2 blocks in 5 minutes), has benefited from additional practice time to adjust to the professional level. 

A Unique Environment

This 11 AM weekday game will create a distinctive atmosphere. Played before thousands of elementary and high school students from the Toronto region, it will offer energy different from evening contests. 

For the Alliance, this represents an opportunity to demonstrate maturity and adaptability. The team must handle its first road trip of the season professionally, without being distracted by the unusual schedule and school-day excitement. 

Tactical Considerations

Jermaine Small must orchestrate Dunn-Martin’s integration while maintaining the chemistry that worked in the season opener. The additional preparation time should facilitate this transition, but nothing replaces real game experience. 

Pace management will be crucial for a team that has played just one official game. The Alliance must avoid a slow start against opponents accustomed to playing every two or three days. 

On Brampton’s side, Head Coach Sheldon Cassimy banks on the urgency of the situation and home court advantage to finally secure that elusive first victory. The gradual integration of players like William Douglas (10.8 points per game) and the emergence of Amari Kelly (13.8 points, 7.6 rebounds) could provide necessary depth. 

Keys to the Game

For the Alliance: Convert physical freshness into an advantage while avoiding early-game rust. Dunn-Martin must quickly adapt to team systems. Rebounding dominance, a key element of the previous victory, remains paramount. 

For Brampton: Leverage competitive rhythm for a fast start and exploit any opponent sluggishness. Weatherspoon must take offensive responsibility, and the home team needs to limit turnovers that proved costly in their first meeting.

Game Information 

Date: Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Time: 11:00 AM

Location: CAA Centre, Brampton

Broadcast: CEBL+, TSN+, Game+