Alberta Basketball Make History At Nationals, Winning First Ever Men’s Gold

For the fist time in the Province’s History, Alberta has won gold at the Men’s Canada Basketball Nationals, overcoming Ontario in the Championship Game 72-69. The game came down to the wire, and featured top Canadian 2027 prospects.

From the start, they were serious contenders due to the talent on the team and how the roster was constructed. Immediately upon reviewing their lineup, the length on the wing stood out. Led by 2027 6’8″ wing Deng Ngor—arguably the best player in his class—and rising 2027 6’6″ wing Nathan Yambayamba, this wing duo proved to be a nightmare for opposing teams with their length and athleticism on the defensive end, paired with strong productivity on offence.

Both players have high motors, are extremely active on both ends of the floor, and can score when called upon. At point guard, 2027 6’3″ Lemar Shir did a fantastic job steering the ship and setting the table, while his backcourt mate Elijah Thomas came through with clutch shots time and time again in pivotal moments. Meanwhile, in the middle, 2027 6’8″ forward Athain Madut was a tenacious interior presence, anchoring the defence and controlling the glass.

This team checked every box necessary for success, which is why they left Newfoundland and Labrador with the gold.

For college coaches and recruiters who may not yet be familiar with the elite talent on this roster, here’s a quick breakdown of their standout players. Keep these guys on your radar:

2027 6’8 W Deng Ngor | 18.2ppg, 8.8rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3bpg, 1spg, 49%FG, 36%3PT, 92%FT

Deng made a major statement this tournament for him not only being the best in his class, but arguably the best prospect in the country regardless of class. He dominated on both ends from start to finish and showed dimensions to his game that continue to impress. Everyone’s familiar with his motor, length, defensive ability, and athleticism as a 6’8 Wing with the skill/mobility of a guard. But he also showed how much his jumper has improved (as shown in his percentages), both from the perimeter and in the midrange. He also showed that he’s a capable playmaker. Getting in the lane and dishing, making precise passes with both hands, and directing his teammates on the floor. It’s getting to a point where it’s hard to notice any deficiencies in his game, if any. He imposed his will and made it be known he’s the best player on the floor against every team, like a true top dog does. Leader on and off the floor. The rate he’s improving is scary, imagine what he looks like as he continues to get better.

2027 6’6 W Nathan Yambayamba | 17.8ppg, 6.8rpg, 40%FG, 32%3PT, 82%FT

Major stockriser. Was extremely impressed with Nathan at this tournament. Definitely one of the higher upside prospects in his class because of his blend of athleticism, shooting ability, size and length. Very simple game, he’s either going to look to get downhill and finish inside, or spot-up and shoot it with confidence. Good defensive upside as well with his length, quickness, and physicality. For college coaches who like 3&D wings with length and athleticism, Nathan’s your guy.

2027 6’4 G Isaiah Hinds | 8.5ppg, 6rpg, 2.2apg, 1.8spg, 55%FG, 70%3PT

It seemed like whenever Alberta needed a bucket or a defensive stop, Isaiah came thru for them. As seen by his extremely efficient shooting splits, his reliability was a huge component for this team’s success and needs to be celebrated. I’ve seen Isaiah score in bunches before, so for him to take the role as the 3rd option speaks volumes to how much he cares about winning and how well he’s able to integrate into any role on any offensive system. Athletic and skilled guard who plays hard on both ends.

2027 6’8 F Athain Madut | 7.2ppg, 8rpg, 2.2bpg, 51%FG

The big man in the middle anchored this team’s defence to a Championship. I was very impressed with his defensive tenacity, motor, and physicality. He led the Tournament in blocked shots per game doing a great job protecting the rim for his team. Offensively he did a solid job as a lob-threat and finisher inside. His bruising style of play makes for a tough cover. With a couple years left to develop, he should definitely be a big man prospect for college coaches to monitor.

2027 6’3 PG Lemar Shir | 3ppg, 4.5apg, 5.7rpg, 1spg

Although he didn’t shoot it as well as he’d like, Lemar Shir’s impact on Alberta’s Gold Medal Run can’t be overlooked. He played the key role of the distributor for them, and organized their offence to perfection leading the team in assists. He also didn’t let his shooting struggles stop him, as he contributed heavily as an on-ball defender averaging a steal per game, and displayed his effort on the glass averaging nearly 6 rebounds per game, extremely impressive for a guard.

2027 6’0 PG Elijah Thomas | 12ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.7apg, 2spg, 46%3PT

Mr. Big Shot aka Elijah Thomas came up big for Alberta time and time again. As seen in his scorching 3pt shooting percentage, it’s hard to say this team is as successful as they are without him. His shooting was not only timely late in games, but his floor spacing opened everything up for their high level slashing wings. You can have all the athletes in the world on your team, but without the floor spacing it means nothing. He stayed ready and knocked it down when it mattered.

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These players will forever be remembered as the team that brought Alberta their first Gold at Canada Basketball Nationals. Time will tell where they all end up, but I know one thing for certain…Alberta Basketball should NOT be slept on going forward.