The Montréal Alliance announced today the return of dynamic guard Tavis “Pistol” Smith alongside the addition of veteran forward Sascha Kappos as the team bolsters its roster for the crucial final stretch of the regular season and playoff push.

Smith, who began the 2025 season with the Alliance before being released due to roster construction rules, returns to Montréal. The Detroit native had emerged as one of the Alliance’s top offensive weapons during his initial tenure, bringing explosive scoring ability and playmaking skills that quickly made him a fan favourite at Verdun Auditorium.

The 25-year-old guard originally joined the Alliance after a standout season with MBK Handlová in Slovakia's top division, where he averaged 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds and 4.7 assists over 38 games. His offensive prowess was consistently on display, scoring double digits in every appearance including 17 games over 20 points, four games over 30 points, and a season-high 43-point explosion against Iskra Svit.

“Coming back to Montréal feels like coming home,” said Smith. “I loved my time with the Alliance and our fans, and I’m excited to rejoin this group.”

The Alliance also announced the signing of 6’10” forward Sascha Kappos, a two-time CEBL champion who reunites with head coach Jermaine Small after winning back-to-back titles with the Edmonton Stingers in 2020 and 2021.

“Sascha is a welcome addition to the team,” said Small. “His experience in the league and within my system will make for a seamless transition.”

Kappos returns to the CEBL after four seasons competing internationally, most recently averaging 12.8 points and 3.8 rebounds with Criollos de Caguas in Puerto Rico’s premier league.

During his collegiate career at Dalhousie University (2015-2020), Kappos earned Atlantic University Sport (AUS) Second Team All-Star honours while helping the Tigers capture four AUS championships and reach the national stage with U SPORTS bronze (2016-17) and silver (2019-20) medal performances.

In corresponding moves to make room for new additions, the Alliance announced the release of forwards O.D. Anosike and Abdullah Shittu.

Anosike appeared in six games this season, averaging 9.8 points, 7.2 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 19.9 minutes per game. Shittu contributed across seven appearances, averaging 2.6 points, 1.3 rebounds and 0.9 assist in 8.7 minutes per contest.

The Alliance organization thanks both players for their professionalism and contributions.

The Alliance return to Verdun Auditorium this Wednesday, July 23 at 7:30 PM ET to host the Ottawa BlackJacks in a crucial division matchup. Tickets are available at alliancemontreal.ca/en-ca/tickets.