SASKATOON, June 20, 2019 - The Saskatchewan Rattlers, member club of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), are looking to capitalize on the growing basketball landscape in the province. With a packed attendance at The Rattlers JurasSask Park Viewing Parties and Mosaic Stadium’s viewing party, it is safe to say that basketball has found its way into Saskatchewan’s heart and now is the time to experience the CEBL first-hand.
The unifying power of sport has always been apparent in Saskatchewan, with the Raptors championship win, the province became united supporting Canada’s team. Now, the Rattlers are hoping that that same passion that was ignited by the Raptors will carry over to the rest of the CEBL season including Championship Weekend on August 24th and 25th.
Saskatchewan has always had a strong basketball community; from strong university programs at the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Regina, to historic high school invitational tournaments like the Bedford Road Invitational Tournament and the Luther Invitational Tournament. The game of basketball is on the rise at a meteoric pace in Saskatchewan.
“The sport of basketball has not only taken over Saskatchewan but the entire country of Canada”, said Rattlers President and Chief Operating Officer Lee Genier. “It has galvanized an entire nation full of diversity and individuals from different backgrounds. It has become a beacon of unity where all are welcome. The Saskatchewan Rattlers are ready to take the baton from the Raptors and continue the wave of basketball excitement here in the province.”
“The Raptors basketball fever has come at a very exciting time for Saskatoon as we are seeing more and more excitement about the game here in our city and province,'' said Mayor of Saskatoon Charlie Clark. “The Rattlers are lighting up SaskTel Centre with high calibre ball and we’ve been lighting up downtown hosting the world with FIBA 3x3 tournaments. I’ve even been shooting more hoops with my kids, we are in a great position to grow this great game in this city.”
The Rattlers are currently in 2nd place in the CEBL with a 6-3 record. They play again this Friday, June 21st against the league-leading Niagara River Lions at the Meridian Centre in St. Catharines, ON. The Rattlers are back home next Thursday, June 27th against the Fraser Valley Bandits. Saskatchewan’s newest professional sports franchise not only provides fans with world-class professional basketball and an electric entertainment experience but also a fantastic opportunity to spend quality time with their friends, family or colleagues. With school coming to an end and summer just around the corner, the Rattlers are excited to “tip-off” summer at their home game on the 27th at 7 PM and are inviting all of Saskatchewan to come out as they’d love to sell out the lower bowl. Fans can lock in their tickets for the game on June 27th by visiting Ticketmaster, the official ticketing partner of the CEBL.
