What’s To Expect In NPH D1 League
École St-Gabriel Escadron Ready to Compete in NPH D1 Scholastic League
The École St-Gabriel Escadron enter the new NPH D1 Scholastic League season with plenty of buzz out of Québec. Known for their disciplined approach and steady development of talent, the Escadron now have the firepower to make noise on the national stage.
Star Power on the Roster
The backbone of St-Gabriel’s roster comes from two high-level prospects who gained valuable summer experience on the AAU circuit:
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Nathan Pelissier (6’5, Guard)
A dynamic guard with size and skill, Pelissier brings a complete package. He can score in a variety of ways — slashing to the basket, knocking down jumpers, or creating off the dribble — while also making plays for teammates. His time with Lu Dort Elite (adidas) has sharpened his decision-making and confidence, giving St-Gabriel a true go-to option in crunch time. -
Bryan Mvogo (6’7, Forward)
Mvogo is the inside presence the Escadron need. Strong and physical around the basket, he controls the paint but has also stretched his game to the perimeter, now posing a threat from beyond the arc. His run with CB Elite (Puma) showcased his versatility and growing offensive arsenal, making him a tough matchup for opponents.
Together, Pelissier and Mvogo form a one-two punch that gives St-Gabriel balance on the perimeter and in the frontcourt.
Ascend Prep New Program, Big Expectations in Year One
The prep basketball scene in Ontario is gaining another rising force as Ascend Prep makes its highly anticipated debut in the NPH D1 Scholastic League this season. Located in Richmond Hill, Ascend may be new to the league—but their talent and ambition suggest they won’t be flying under the radar for long.
Built on a foundation of discipline, skill development, and high-level competition, Ascend Prep is ready to make noise in one of Canada’s top high school circuits. Their roster features a mix of versatile wings, high-IQ guards, and elite shot-makers, giving them a dynamic and well-rounded identity from day one.
Backcourt Anchors Ascend’s Attack
🏀 Dwayne Smith Jr. | Guard
Coming off a strong AAU season with UPlay Canada, one of the country’s most respected grassroots programs, Dwayne Smith Jr. enters the year with momentum and confidence. A crafty and athletic guard, Smith brings explosiveness in transition, an improved jumper, and lockdown potential on the defensive end. His ability to impact both ends of the floor makes him a centerpiece in Ascend’s backcourt.
🏀 Jazz Stewart | Point Guard
Every good team needs a floor general—and Jazz Stewart is just that. A true point guard in every sense, Stewart brings leadership, pace control, and an unselfish approach that elevates his teammates. With a high basketball IQ and maturity beyond his years, he’ll serve as the engine for Ascend’s offense in their inaugural campaign.
🏀 Jaideep Gill | Shooting Guard
If you’re looking for a certified sniper, Jaideep Gill fits the bill. Known for his ability to “shoot the lights out” from anywhere on the floor, Gill adds instant offense and spacing to Ascend’s lineup. But he’s far from just a shooter—he’s also a high-effort defender who brings toughness and a competitive edge to the wing.
Do-It-All Wing Threat
🏀 Dana Dadvand | Guard/Forward – 6’6”
At a legit 6’6”, Dana Dadvand is a matchup nightmare and one of the most versatile players on Ascend’s roster. Whether he’s handling the ball, scoring off the bounce, knocking down perimeter shots, or defending multiple positions, Dadvand has the “Swiss Army Knife” label written all over him. His ability to impact the game in so many ways gives Ascend a major X-factor.
Outlook: High Ceiling for the Newcomers
Ascend Prep may be new to the NPH D1 Scholastic League, but their talent level, basketball IQ, and team-first identity make them a legitimate contender to turn heads right away. With a well-balanced lineup that features scoring, size, leadership, and grit, this team has all the tools to compete with the best in the country.
Head coach and staff will be tasked with molding this talented core into a cohesive unit, but early signs point to a group that’s hungry, coachable, and ready for the spotlight.
Bottom Line
Ascend Prep isn’t just here to participate—they’re here to compete.
As the newest addition to the NPH D1 Scholastic League, expect them to bring energy, talent, and a fearless mentality that could surprise some established programs.
Debut season. Real expectations. Let the climb begin.
Alma Prep, Quebec
Alma Prep is set to make noise in their second season in the NPH D1 Academy League. Based in Quebec, the program brings a unique international flair and physical toughness, built around high-upside prospects and a relentless mentality on both ends of the floor. With players from Senegal and France blending with local Canadian talent, Alma Prep isn’t just entering the league — they’re coming to compete.
🔑 Top Players to Watch:
🛡️ Mouhamed Doucoure
- Class: 2026
- Height: 6’6”
- From: Senegal
Doucoure is the rock of this squad. Strong, athletic, and polished, he’s a two-way force who can punish defenders in the post or face up and knock down the midrange jumper. His physicality and maturity set the tone for Alma Prep. A matchup nightmare, he’ll be key in tight games when a bucket is needed.
🦁 Godson Nugu
- Class: 2028
- Height: 6’7”
A rising star with a motor that never stops. Godson is a fierce competitor and one of the most versatile defenders in the league. Offensively, he’s still developing, but already flashes elite vision, strong athleticism, and a natural ability to put the ball in the basket. He’s the kind of player who impacts winning in every facet of the game.
🎯 Isaac Jahannin
- Class: 2027
- Height: 6’5” | Lefty
Jahannin is Alma Prep’s smooth operator. With a scorer’s touch and a fearless approach, he’s a three-level threat who can shoot from deep, slash to the rim, and create off the bounce. His ability to break down defenders and finish through contact makes him one of the team’s most dangerous offensive weapons.
🔥 Zacharie Turmel
- Class: 2027
- Height: 5’11”
- From: France
Don’t let his size fool you — Turmel plays big. A dynamic guard with elite ball-handling skills and a killer mentality, he’s the type of player who thrives in pressure moments. Whether it’s a deep three, a clutch floater, or an ankle-breaking crossover, Turmel brings flash, fire, and fearlessness every time he steps on the court.
🔍 What to Expect:
Alma Prep brings a gritty, defensive-minded identity with just enough offensive firepower to hang with anyone in the NPH D1. Their international background and physical style of play make them a wildcard in their first year — and a potential giant slayer if underestimated. Expect them to develop rapidly as the season goes on and make a serious push toward the playoffs.
Uchenna Academy Set to Make Their Mark in NPH D1 Debut Season
As the 2025-26 NPH D1 Scholastic League season tips off, a new contender is stepping onto the national stage with international flair.
Led by a collection of international student-athletes from Africa, Europe, and Eastern Europe, Uchenna Academy has positioned itself as a developmental powerhouse on the rise.
🧭 International Core: A Roster Without Borders
Uchenna’s foundation is a diverse group of young prospects, each bringing a unique skill set, cultural background, and developmental ceiling.
🇨🇬 Mamadou Sacko | 2026 | 6’9 F/C | Congo
🇫🇷 Diego Imbert | 2026 | 6’0 G | France
🇨🇭 Johan Naoux | 2027 | 5’11 PG | Switzerland
🇨🇭 Loris Monteil | 2027 | 6’3 F | Switzerland
🇫🇷 Hamza Lukau | 2027 | 6’3 G | France
🇺🇬 John Levi Ogiramoi | 2027 | 6’1 G | Uganda
🇺🇦 Foma Fomichov | 2028 | 6’0 G | Ukraine
🏀 What to Expect in Year One
Uchenna Academy’s debut season will be all about building chemistry, gaining experience, and earning respect in one of the toughest scholastic leagues in Canada. While they may take their lumps early on, the talent and potential on this roster are undeniable.
Victory Prep Building Momentum
After a breakout campaign in the 2024 season, Victory Prep is back in the NPH D1 Academy League with unfinished business. Known for their high-octane offense, gritty defense, and a roster stacked with returning talent, Victory Prep isn’t just looking to compete — they’re aiming to run the table.
Last Season Recap: Contenders With a Statement
Victory Prep established themselves as one of the top teams in the NPH D1 Academy League last year. They made waves with their athleticism, pace, and intensity, often overpowering opponents with relentless pressure and transition scoring. Despite a strong playoff push, the team fell just short of a championship — a fact not lost on this returning group.
Returning Core: Chemistry Meets Experience
This year’s squad is built on continuity. A core group of returning players brings a combination of chemistry, maturity, and hunger, with the team’s identity already established and ready to evolve.
Leading the charge is 6’4 wing Khamani Stewart, one of the most electrifying players in the league last season. Known for his explosive athleticism, Stewart made a name for himself with highlight dunks, high-energy defense, and clutch scoring. He’s a matchup nightmare — too quick for forwards, too strong for guards — and is poised to take another leap as both a scorer and leader.
Running the show is floor general Angelo Yap, a crafty and composed point guard who controls the tempo with poise beyond his years. Yap is the engine of the offense, capable of breaking down defenses with his handle and vision, while also bringing tough-nosed defense on the other end. His leadership will be crucial in guiding this veteran squad through another grueling campaign.
New Additions + Depth
While Victory Prep is anchored by its returning stars, don’t sleep on the supporting cast. With key role players returning and a few promising newcomers, the team boasts depth at every position. Expect Victory Prep to throw different looks at opponents — whether it’s going small and fast, or big and physical — depending on the matchup.
With elite talent, veteran leadership, and a chip on their shoulder from last season’s near-miss, Victory Prep enters the 2025 NPH season as legitimate title contenders. This is a team with not just high expectations, but the tools to meet — and exceed — them.
If Stewart continues his rise and Yap maintains his steady command of the offense, Victory Prep could be the team everyone’s chasing come playoff time.
Keep your eyes on Victory Prep — this squad is coming for the crown.
Father Henry Carr – D1 Scholastic Finalists Reloaded
After a thrilling run to the NPH D1 Scholastic League Championship last season, the Father Henry Carr Crusaders return with a renewed sense of purpose, a mix of seasoned returners and high-upside newcomers, and the steady leadership of veteran head coach Paul Melnik — a name synonymous with High School Canadian basketball excellence.
Championship Pedigree, Unfinished Business
The Crusaders fell just short of the ultimate prize last season, but their journey to the final proved they belong among the elite. With a roster built on grit, speed, and defensive intensity, Carr pushed opponents to the edge night in and night out. Now, with several key contributors returning and new talent infused into the lineup, expectations are once again sky-high.
Key Players to Watch
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Kaden Jonas – 6’1 PG
The engine of the Crusaders’ offence, Jonas is a tough, cerebral point guard with a knack for controlling tempo and making the right reads. Expect him to take on even more responsibility this season as the vocal leader on the court. -
Trust Odia – 6’6 F
With size, toughness, and an expanding skill set, Odia brings two-way impact. He’s a matchup nightmare on the wing and an active presence on the glass. If he continues his upward trajectory, he could be one of the breakout stars of the league. -
Dre’Kel Clayton – 6’1 G
A hard-nosed two-way guard, Clayton adds toughness and scoring punch. He excels in transition and plays with energy — a perfect fit in Carr’s style of play. -
Tristan Brathwaite – 6’4 F
Brathwaite provides athleticism in the frontcourt, capable of guarding multiple positions and finishing above the rim. His motor and length allow him to impact the game even when the box score doesn’t reflect it. -
Nana Kwame Gyekye – 5’11 G
A crafty guard with great pace and feel, Gyekye offers instant offence. His ability to break down defenders and create for others will be key in tight games.
Depth & Intangibles
Behind the marquee names, the Crusaders boast a deep bench filled with players hungry to prove themselves. While the team’s identity remains rooted in defence and discipline, this year’s group also has the firepower to put up points in bunches.
More importantly, this is a cohesive unit. Many of these players have already battled through a championship run together, and the newcomers have seamlessly embraced the team culture. That chemistry could be the difference-maker in a league as deep and competitive as NPH D1.
The Road Ahead
With the target squarely on their backs, Father Henry Carr enters the 2025 season as both contenders and motivated challengers. The league is stacked, and every night will demand their best — but this team has the tools, the coaching, and the hunger to run it back and finish what they started.
Don’t be surprised if the Crusaders are right back under the bright lights of the championship game this season — only this time, with the gold in hand.
NDL (Montreal) – Quebec’s Next Generation is Here
After a strong debut in the NPH D1 last season, NDL out of Montreal is back with some of the top young talent in Quebec.
While many programs are searching for their identity, NDL has already found theirs: develop elite young players, compete at the highest level, and grow through structure and reps. With a 2028 core already producing and poised to break out, NDL is not waiting for the future—they’re playing it right now.
Young Core, Big Upside
The strength of this year’s NDL squad lies in its 2028 class, which already features players who have proven themselves at both the provincial and national level. The development curve is steep, but so is the potential.
Key Players to Watch
Kefa Irakoze | 6’4’’ Guard/Wing | Class of 2028
A crafty, explosive offensive weapon, Kefa Irakoze is the kind of player who thrives with the ball in his hands. He’s difficult to keep out of the paint, uses angles well, and has a natural feel for scoring. His ability to finish through contact and contribute on the glass makes him a matchup problem at the guard-wing spot.
Williams Wemeni | 6’7’’ Guard/Wing | Class of 2028
With his great length and smooth shooting stroke, Wemeni brings two-way versatility. He can stretch the floor with his range, but also uses his size and timing to impact shots around the rim defensively. As he continues to grow into his frame and gain reps at a high level, his ceiling is massive.
Joshua Muamba | 6’6’’ Forward/Post | Class of 2028
If you watched CNIT this summer, you already know Joshua Muamba. An elite rebounder, rim protector, and explosive leaper, Muamba is one of the most productive bigs in his class across the province. He plays with relentless energy, owns the glass, and is rapidly developing his face-up game.
NDL’s Outlook: Built from the Ground Up
NDL isn’t just assembling talent—they’re developing it year by year, building through a strong pipeline that includes a junior team now competing in the NPH D1 Junior Division. That structure gives them a major advantage: their players arrive prepared, confident, and ready to contribute.
Heading into 2025-26, expect NDL to surprise older teams, punch above their age, and make life difficult for anyone who takes them lightly.
Final Word
NDL is proving that Montreal’s basketball talent pool runs deep — and it’s getting younger and stronger every year.
With Irakoze, Wemeni, and Muamba leading the way, this team might be one of the most exciting young groups in the entire NPH D1. The future of Quebec hoops is in good hands — and it’s already making noise.
Prolific Sports Academy (Alberta) – Western Canada’s Rising Force
As they enter their third year of prep basketball, Prolific Sports Academy out of Calgary is no longer a newcomer — they’re a program with a plan, a pipeline, and a presence on both sides of the border.
Known for consistently testing themselves against top American competition, Prolific is carving out a unique identity in Canadian prep hoops: fast, fearless, and focused on long-term development.
A Program That Travels
Unlike many programs that focus strictly on in-country competition, Prolific’s top team plays a demanding U.S. schedule, regularly facing elite-level programs in prep circuits and exposure events south of the border. That experience gives their athletes a distinct edge — they’ve seen the speed, physicality, and pressure that comes with high-level basketball.
Alberta are reigning Champs at Canada Bball Nationals and have been producing talent for years.
Key Players to Watch
Wani John | 6’8 Wing | Class of 2029
A long, athletic forward with a huge ceiling, Wani John is one of the most intriguing young prospects in Western Canada. He plays with energy, defends multiple positions, and flashes upside as a modern hybrid forward who can handle, shoot, and slash.
Still only 2029, Wani is already producing — and projecting as a national name to know in his class.
Josh Maxence | 6’0 PG | Class of 2029
Maxence is a dynamic young guard with shiftiness, court vision, and confidence beyond his years. As he grows physically, his decision-making and pace make him a strong long-term point guard prospect. Expect him to make plays and push tempo as a lead guard in the coming years.
Dorian Ouaton | 6’1 Guard | Class of 2027
A combo guard with strength and scoring instincts, Ouaton brings toughness and experience to the backcourt. He can shoot it, attack off the bounce, and defend his position — a key two-way piece for Prolific this season.
Jordy Brown | PG | Class of 2027
Coming from B.C., Jordy Brown adds poise and pace at the point. He understands how to run a team, sets the tone defensively, and brings a high IQ to every possession. He’ll be vital in helping this young group stay organized against top-level competition.
Outlook: Proving Ground Season
Prolific Sports Academy is entering this season with a blend of youth, size, and experience. With a foundation of tough competition and a development-first philosophy, they’re set to make noise in the NPH D1 Academy league while continuing to test themselves in the U.S.
They may still be early in their journey as a program, but with the way they’re trending, Prolific is well on its way to becoming a perennial contender and a top destination in Western Canada for elite talent.
Keep your eyes on Prolific — they’re building something special in Calgary.
Central Canada Prep (Manitoba) – Building a Prairie Powerhouse
The Canadian basketball landscape continues to evolve, and in the heart of the Prairies, Central Canada Prep is quickly emerging as one of Manitoba’s premier programs. After a strong campaign last season that ended in a deep playoff run and saw several seniors graduate to the next level, Central Canada enters the 2025-26 NPH D1 Academy season with momentum and a reloaded roster.
A Program on the Rise
What began as a regional option for high-level talent in Manitoba has grown into a national contender. Central Canada’s commitment to high-performance training, academics, and exposure has attracted some of the province’s best young talent.
Key Players to Watch
Istvan Reid | 7’0 Center | Class of 2027
A true seven-footer with size, mobility, and a soft touch, Reid is the anchor for this Central Canada squad. He alters shots, controls the paint, and has the potential to dominate on both ends as he continues to grow into his frame.
Look for Reid to be a major mismatch problem throughout the season as he continues to refine his footwork, conditioning, and low-post game.
Liam Jaro | 6’0 Point Guard | Class of 2027
The floor general and heartbeat of the team, Jaro is a skilled, tough-nosed PG who competes on every possession.
His experience and poise will be crucial, especially with a younger core looking to find their rhythm early in the season.
Culture + Continuity = Dangerous
Their 2024 graduating class proved that the model works: develop players, compete nationally, and elevate them to post-secondary opportunities.
Now, the next wave is ready to take the baton.
Outlook for the 2025-26 Season
With Reid patrolling the paint, Jaro setting the table, and a coaching staff that understands how to develop and compete, Central Canada Prep is a serious sleeper team in the NPH D1 Academy circuit this season.
They’re big. They’re organized. And they’re hungry.
Keep an eye on Central Canada Prep as they continue their rise out of the Prairies and onto the national radar.
Ste. Cécile Academy (Windsor) NPH D1 Scholastic
As the 2025-26 NPH D1 Scholastic season tips off, all eyes are on one of the most intriguing new entries to the circuit: Ste. Cécile Academy out of Windsor, Ontario. Backed by a strong academic foundation and a growing sports culture, the private institution is set to make a serious statement in its first-ever year of Prep basketball competition.
Located in the heart of Windsor—a city traditionally known more for its hockey and football—Ste. Cécile is flipping the script. With a commitment to long-term development and high-performance culture, the school is leveraging its private school structure to create a holistic environment where student-athletes thrive both academically and athletically.
Leading the charge is Head Coach Greg Surmacz, a former pro who brings a wealth of playing experience and a strong developmental ethos.
Key Players to Watch
Sidiki Kromah | 6’2 Guard | Class of 2028
One of the most exciting young guards his class, Kromah led the NPH Showcase League in scoring two years in a row, cementing his status as a high-level offensive weapon. His advanced scoring ability, confidence with the ball, and competitive fire make him the engine of this young squad.
Matteo Rickets | 6’5 Wing | Class of 2028
Rickets brings versatility on the wing, he projects as a two-way threat who will only get better as the season progresses.
Taj Nalls | 6’0 PG | Class of 2028
The team’s floor general, Nalls is a cerebral point guard who plays beyond his years. He controls tempo, sees the floor exceptionally well, and makes his teammates better.
Anthony Pachinoski | 6’4 Wing | Class of 2029
Only a 2029, Pachinoski is a promising long-term prospect. With great size for his age and flashes of scoring touch, he’s a name to remember in the years ahead.
International Flavor Adds Depth
Ste. Cécile’s reach goes beyond Canadian borders. The roster includes several international talents from Latin America, reflecting the program’s growing global pipeline:
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Fernando Reyes Rios (2028 F, Mexico)
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Emmanuel Nava Hernandez (2027 G, Mexico)
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Emmanuel Pinzon Delgado (2028 G, Colombia)
The Road Ahead
While this may be Ste. Cécile’s inaugural season in Prep basketball, their approach is anything but inexperienced. With elite young talent, international prospects, and a strong coach leading the charge, the Windsor-based program is ready to establish itself as a serious player on the national stage.
Don’t be surprised if they pull off a few upsets and turn heads this year. But more importantly, this is a program built for the long game—investing in its players, setting a standard, and laying the groundwork for sustained success in the Canadian prep ecosystem.
