The Montréal Alliance continues its fourth season in spectacular fashion Sunday night by playing the first-ever professional outdoor 5x5 basketball game in Canadian history. After crushing the Brampton Honey Badgers 88-66 in their season opener, Jermaine Small’s team arrives at Stade IGA with confidence and momentum.

A Convincing Opener

The victory over Brampton showed a transformed Alliance. Quincy Guerrier, back in Montréal after a season with the Raptors 905, dominated with 21 points and 10 rebounds. The Montréal forward shot 56% from the field and imposed himself physically in the paint. 

“His talent is undeniable,” coach Small said after the win. “Every basket he makes gives us momentum.” 

The Alliance controlled the game through offensive rebounding superiority (11 in the first half) and aggressive defense that limited Koby McEwen, the 2024 Canadian Player of the Year, to just 15 points. 

Alain Louis, the lone holdover from the 2024 season, orchestrated the offense with 10 assists and zero turnovers. 

Ottawa Brings Serious Weapons

The BlackJacks enter with a 1-1 record but possess formidable weapons. Deng Adel just recorded a strong performance with 12 rebounds and 10 assists against Niagara. The former NBA player brings experience and versatility at multiple positions. 

Isaih Moore, a 6’10” center, finished second in the CEBL in rebounds last season (8.3 per game). His paint presence could cause problems for the Alliance. Tyrrel Tate, a franchise veteran, remains a dangerous outside shooter and knows every trick in this league.

The Stade IGA Advantage

The Alliance will play in front of over 10,000 spectators, nearly triple the usual capacity of the Verdun Auditorium. This unique atmosphere could favour the home team, especially if they maintain the physical intensity shown against Brampton. 

Anthony Walker (11 points in his debut) and Dontay Bassett (14 points, 11 rebounds against Brampton) have already proven they can perform in big moments. Sultan Haider Bhatti, the first overall draft pick and Montréal native, could make his professional debut in this historic setting.

Keys to the Game

For the Alliance: Continue dominating on the offensive glass and maintain the defensive intensity that neutralized Brampton. Guerrier must confirm his opening performance and Louis orchestrate the offensive with his usual court vision.

For Ottawa: Adel must take control of the game and Moore impose his presence in the paint. The BlackJacks will need to limit the Alliance’s second chances while finding offensive solutions against Small’s aggressive defense. 

Game Information 

Date: Sunday, May 25, 2025

Time: 7:30 PM ET

Location:  IGA Stadium

Tickets: Available starting at just $25 at alliancemontreal.ca/billets 

The Montréal Alliance is a professional basketball club competing in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). Based in Montréal, Quebec, the Alliance plays its home games at Verdun Auditorium and, for the first time in 2025, at IGA Stadium. Founded in 2022, the team is entering its fourth season in the CEBL with the goal of building a winning culture while actively engaging with the Montréal community.