Kavishan Pathmanathan Named Commissioner of the NPA
Toronto, ON – AUG, 13, 2025 – The National Preparatory Association (NPA) proudly announces the appointment of Kavishan Pathmanathan as its new Commissioner, marking an exciting new chapter for Canada’s premier prep basketball league.
Founded in 2016, the NPA has a rich history, as the country’s only National high school league with the mission of aligning Canada’s basketball stakeholders to push the game forward.
The leadership role of league commissioner is not one to be taken lightly, due its impact & importance in aligning and uniting stakeholders across the country. Previously, Jason Thom (current CEBL Director of Basketball Operations) held this role, and helped set a tone of professionalism.
“It’s an honour to take on the role of Commissioner for the National Preparatory Association”
said Kavishan Pathmanathan.
“The NPA has been a driving force in showcasing Canadian prep talent, and my journey in helping to create programs like Fort Erie and Royal Crown has given me first-hand insight into what it takes to compete—and win—at the highest level. I’m excited to work alongside our teams, athletes, and partners to build on the league’s foundation and take it to new heights”
Pathmanathan brings a wealth of experience and proven leadership in the prep basketball space. He began his career at Royal Crown School, where he contributed to the program’s growth and competitive rise. Most recently, he was instrumental in building the Fort Erie International Academy into a global prep powerhouse, helping lead the program to an NPA National Championship. With this track record, Pathmanathan brings a deep understanding of elite-level prep basketball, making him an ideal fit to lead the league into its next era.
“Kavishan has been an integral part of the basketball ecosystem, with a résumé that speaks for itself—championship pedigree, relationship management expertise, and a clear passion for elevating Canadian talent,”
said Tariq Sbiet, Founder & CEO of North Pole Hoops.
“This decision reflects our Build From Within culture—identifying and promoting leaders from inside our own ecosystem who have the vision, experience, and dedication to push forward.”
In his role as Commissioner, Pathmanathan will work closely with Sbiet, to deliver the organization’s vision—-he will also work in alignment with leaders in various departments including community engagement, scouting, marketing and sponsorship to maximize league visibility .
Pathmanathan will oversee league operations, strengthen relationships with member programs, and lead strategic initiatives to enhance competition, exposure, athlete development across Canada & internationally.
The NPA is entering its seventh season, continuing its legacy of producing top-tier talent (players and coaches) who go on to excel at the collegiate, professional, and international levels. With Pathmanathan at the helm, the league is poised for an era of growth, innovation, and opportunity.
About the National Preparatory Association
Founded in 2016, the National Preparatory Association is Canada’s leading prep basketball league, committed to developing the nation’s top student-athletes, and coaches through elite competition, exposure, and holistic support.
The NPA serves as a platform and pathway to the next level, including the NBA, CEBL, Professional Overseas, NCAA, USports, CCAA, JUCO & NAIA.
