Sultan Haider Bhatti Jumps Into Community Action at Royal Vale Elementary
After hearing his name called as the first overall pick in the 2025 CEBL Draft, Sultan Haider Bhatti wasted no time making his mark in Montréal. The Brandon University standout traveled straight from Manitoba to his new basketball home, immediately hitting the gym and connecting with the community. Just days into his Alliance journey, Bhatti found himself surrounded by elementary school students, turning a jump rope and offering words of encouragement at Royal Vale Elementary School.
The Laval native and former Brandon University star joined Royal Vale’s 22nd annual Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser for the Heart and Stroke Foundation on April 24, spending a morning that showcased exactly why the Alliance made him their top selection.
"It's important to me to connect with the community right away. Basketball has given me so much and being able to support causes like this while meeting these amazing kids - this is what it's all about."
- Sultan Haider Bhatti
The Jump Rope for Heart tradition has become part of Royal Vale Elementary’s DNA over the past two decades. Each year, students are divided by grade level, with every group getting the opportunity to skip rope for the cause and raise funds for heart and stroke research.
During his visit, Bhatti spent time with students grades 2, 3, 5, and 6 - answering questions about his basketball journey, signing autographs, posing for photos, and even taking turns turning the jump rope for enthusiastic participants.
The excitement was palpable when Sultan arrived at the school. Students gathered around the basketball player, eager to meet a professional athlete from their community. Many expressed their excitement about watching him play for the Alliance in the upcoming season.
For Bhatti, the timing of this community appearance was significant. Before playing his first professional game, before even participating in his first Alliance practice, the 6’4” guard/forward made it clear that his impact will extend far beyond the basketball court.
The event perfectly aligned with the Alliance’s community-focused mission. Throughout its history, the organization has emphasized building meaningful connections throughout Montréal and beyond, using basketball as a vehicle to inspire youth and support important causes.
The Alliance has consistently shown its commitment to community engagement, with players and staff regularly participating in school visits, basketball clinics, and charity events across the city. Bhatti’s immediate involvement demonstrates how this tradition continues with each new generation of players.
The Montréal Alliance’s 2025 season begins May 18 at the Verdun Auditorium against the Brampton Honey Badgers, where fans will get their first look at Bhatti in action. But for the students at Royal Vale Elementary, they’ve already seen the most important side of their newest hometown basketball star.