The intensity of rivalry basketball returns to Verdun Auditorium on Wednesday evening as the Montréal Alliance welcome their biggest rivals, the Ottawa BlackJacks, in a crucial Eastern Conference matchup that could significantly impact playoff positioning for both teams. With postseason implications on the line and renewed roster energy for the Alliance, this divisional clash promises to deliver the passion and drama that has defined this heated rivalry.

The BlackJacks arrive in Montréal having transformed their season from early disappointment into playoff contention. After stumbling to a concerning 2-6 start, Ottawa has completely turned their fortunes around, posting an impressive 6-2 record since adding explosive guard Javonte Smart to their lineup. Smart’s impact has been nothing short of remarkable, as the dynamic scorer leads the entire CEBL with 28.6 points per game, providing the offensive firepower that has sparked Ottawa’s dramatic turnaround.

Smart’s arrival has elevated an already talented Ottawa roster that features one of the league’s most complete starting lineups. Isaih Moore dominates the interior with league-leading 11.7 rebounds per game while contributing 19.9 points, establishing himself as one of the CEBL’s premier two-way players. The versatile forward Deng Adel adds 15.0 points per game, while Zane Waterman provides steady production with 14.0 points per contest, giving the BlackJacks four players averaging double figures in scoring.

The Alliance enters this rivalry matchup with renewed optimism following significant roster moves that could reshape their playoff aspirations. The highly anticipated return of Tavis “Pistol” Smith provides an immediate boost to an offense that has struggled for consistency. Smith’s explosive scoring ability and proven chemistry with the Alliance system should provide the dynamic playmaking that the team has been missing during crucial stretches of the season.

Joining Smith is veteran forward Sascha Kappos, whose championship experience with Edmonton adds valuable playoff pedigree to a Montréal roster hungry for postseason success. Kappos brings the type of veteran leadership and basketball IQ that becomes invaluable during high-pressure situations, exactly what the Alliance need as they fight to improve their standing in the competitive Eastern Conference.

The Alliance will also welcome back their leading scorer Quincy Guerrier, who returns from NBA Summer League action with the Toronto Raptors. Guerrier’s absence was felt significantly during the team’s recent struggles, as his 17.2 points and team-leading 7.2 rebounds per game represent crucial production that the Alliance have been missing. His return, combined with the new additions, gives head coach Jermaine Small one of the deepest and most talented roster he’s had available this season.

Tavian Dunn-Martin continues to anchor the Alliance offense as both the team’s leading scorer at 18.6 points per game and primary facilitator, ranking third in the CEBL with 6.6 assists per contest. His ability to create opportunities for teammates while providing consistent scoring has been the foundation of Montréal’s offensive attack. With Smith and Guerrier back in the lineup, Dunn-Martin’s playmaking becomes even more valuable as he’ll have additional weapons to utilize.

For Ottawa, sitting second in the Eastern Conference at 8-8, this game represents an opportunity to gain separation from teams below them while potentially creating distance from Montréal in the standings.

The Alliance, currently fourth in the East at 6-10, desperately need victories to improve their playoff positioning and avoid potentially difficult road assignments in the first round.

The history between these organizations adds another layer of intensity to an already crucial game. Every meeting between Montréal and Ottawa carries extra significance, with players and fans alike understanding the importance of these divisional battles. The energy at Verdun Auditorium has consistently been the best in the CEBL, and Wednesday’s atmosphere should provide the type of environment where memorable moments are created.

As both teams navigate the final stretch of the regular season, this Wednesday evening clash at Verdun Auditorium promises to deliver the intensity, drama, and high-level basketball that defines rivalry games at their best.

Game Information

Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Time: 7:30 PM ET

Location: Verdun Auditorium, Montréal

Broadcast: RDS, CEBL+, TSN+