The Montréal Alliance return to the comforting confines of Verdun Auditorium Sunday afternoon for a special celebration that promises to lift spirits both on and off the court. Hosting the struggling Saskatchewan Rattlers for Alli-Oop’s Birthday Bash, the Alliance have an ideal opportunity to snap their four-game losing streak while entertaining families with a perfect blend of basketball and festivities.

The game also marks the highly anticipated debut of newly acquired veteran center O.D. Anosike, whose rebounding prowess and international experience could provide the interior presence the Alliance have been seeking.

Home Sweet Home at the Right Time

After enduring a challenging stretch that included three consecutive road games, the Alliance (4-4) find themselves in familiar territory - needing to rediscover their winning formula. The timing couldn’t be better, with Saskatchewan (2-8) arriving as the Western Conference’s basement dwellers and riding their own four-game skid.

The statistical comparison tells a compelling story. While the Alliance allow the third fewest points in the CEBL (85.6 per game), Saskatchewan surrenders a league-worst 92.8 points nightly. This defensive disparity suggests the Alliance should find scoring opportunities against a Rattlers team that has struggled to contain opposing offenses all season.

More telling is the assist differential - the Alliance lead the CEBL with 23.4 assists per game while Saskatchewan sits dead last at 15.7. This gap highlights the contrasting philosophies: Montréal unselfish, team-first approach versus Saskatchewan’s individual-focused attack.

Familiar Faces Return to Verdun

The Rattlers’ roster features three former Alliance players who know Verdun Auditorium intimately. Elijah Ifejeh spent three seasons (2022-2024) in Montréal and understands the building’s energy and atmosphere. Jordan Bowden and Devontè Bandoo both contributed to last season’s Alliance squad before finding new homes in Saskatchewan.



These reunions add emotional layers to what should be a business-like approach for the Alliance. While sentimentality might create storylines, the Alliance need two points more than nostalgia as they work to climb back toward Eastern Conference respectability.

Dunn-Martin Anchors Offensive Revival

Tavian Dunn-Martin’s consistency has been the Alliance’s most reliable constant during their recent struggles. Leading the team in points (18.7), three-pointers made (3.0), and assists (6.9), he’s shouldered the offensive load while maintaining the playmaking excellence that makes the Alliance dangerous.

His 21-point performance against Niagara demonstrated his ability to score when teammates struggle to find rhythm. Against Saskatchewan’s porous defense, Dunn-Martin should have opportunities to both score efficiently and create advantages for others through his court vision and three-point shooting.

The supporting cast around Dunn-Martin needs to rediscover their collective identity. Quincy Guerrier’s 11-point, 11-rebound performance against Niagara - with all points coming from free throws - highlighted both his rebounding dominance (6.5 per game) and the need for more diverse scoring.

Bench Production Provides Hope

Malcolm Duvivier’s emergence as a reliable contributor off the bench offers the Alliance a potential X-factor. His 12 points, three rebounds, and three assists against Niagara demonstrated the type of bench production that could unlock the Alliance’s depth advantage. Leading the team with 45.2% three-point shooting, Duvivier provides the spacing and scoring punch that makes the Alliance’s ball movement effective.

Anthony Walker’s scoreless performance against Niagara was uncharacteristic after earning player of the game honours in his previous outing. His bounce-back potential against Saskatchewan’s struggling defense could provide the secondary scoring the Alliance desperately need.

The Alliance will be without Michael Diggins Jr., who is sidelined with an injury. His absence could provide more playing time for O.D. Anosike to make an immediate impact in his Alliance debut, bringing veteran leadership and rebounding strength to the frontcourt rotation.

Saskatchewan’s Offensive Weapons

Despite their struggles, the Rattlers possess legitimate offensive threats that demand respect. Jamir Chaplin’s 17.8 points per game makes him a consistent scoring danger, though his 3-point effort against Brampton suggest inconsistency issues that mirror his team’s broader challenges.

Nate Pierre-Louis brings versatility with 16.9 points, 7.1 rebounds and 6.4 assists - numbers that reflect his ability to impact multiple facets. His playmaking ability approaches elite levels and gives Saskatchewan a legitimate floor general who can create problems if not properly contained.

Jordan Bowden’s return to Montréal adds intrigue. His 12.6 points and 3.9 rebounds provide Saskatchewan with another scoring option who understands how to succeed at Verdun Auditorium.

Perfect Storm for Alliance Success

Every statistical indicator points toward Alliance advantages. Their superior defense, ball movement, and home court edge should overcome Saskatchewan’s offensive talent, particularly given both teams’ current form. The Alliance 2-1 home mark indicate comfort in familiar surroundings.

The afternoon timing and family-friendly atmosphere could energize both the crowd and the Alliance players, creating the type of positive environment that breeds success. After struggling through hostile road venues, the Alliance should embrace the supportive energy of their passionate fanbase.

Most importantly, Saskatchewan represents exactly the type of opponent the Alliance need to rebuild confidence and rediscover their winning identity. A convincing performance would not only snap the losing streak but provide momentum heading into the season's crucial second half.

Game Information

Date: Sunday, June 22, 2025

Time: 3:00 PM ET

Location: Verdun Auditorium, Montréal, QC

Broadcast: CEBL+, TSN+, RDS.ca

Next Game

The Alliance will visit the Ottawa BlackJacks on June 28 at 3:00 PM.