Bandits Host Fifth Annual School Day Game

The Vancouver Bandits officially began preparations for the 2026 Canadian Elite Basketball League season this week, hosting their fifth annual School Day Game at Langley Events Centre while also unveiling a training camp roster loaded with professional experience, returning talent, and local representation.

The Bandits defeated the U SPORTS All-Stars 136-81 Thursday afternoon on Envision Financial Court in front of a lively crowd featuring students from schools across the Lower Mainland, along with influencers and community members.

The exhibition contest came two days after Vancouver announced its 16-player training camp roster for the franchise’s eighth CEBL season under head coach and general manager Kyle Julius.

Bandits build around returning core after franchise-best season

Vancouver enters the 2026 campaign looking to build off the most successful regular season in franchise history.

The Bandits finished 19-5 in 2025, earning the top record in the Western Conference before eventually falling in the CEBL semifinals.

Much of the roster that helped drive that success returns this season, including reigning CEBL Canadian Player of the Year Tyrese Samuel, along with veterans Duane Notice, David Mutabazi, and Majok Gum.

The continuity gives Vancouver an experienced foundation heading into camp, while also maintaining the defensive identity and physical style that Julius has established during his tenure with the organization.

Now entering his seventh season with the Bandits, Julius continues to oversee one of the league’s most stable programs.

The back-to-back CEBL Coach of the Year has helped transform Vancouver into a championship contender built around toughness, depth, and player development.

Professional experience headlines new additions

The Bandits also made significant additions during the offseason, bringing in several players with NBA and NBA G League experience.

Canadian guard Mychal Mulder headlines the incoming group after previous stints with the Golden State Warriors and Orlando Magic organizations.

Vancouver also added forward Miller Kopp, who recently spent time with the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2025-26 preseason.

The Bandits further strengthened their backcourt by signing Tevian Jones and John Knight III, both of whom arrive with NBA G League experience.

Jones most recently suited up within the Los Angeles Lakers organization, while Knight played in the Houston Rockets system.

The additions reflect Vancouver’s continued push toward championship contention while adding depth and versatility throughout the lineup.

British Columbia talent featured throughout roster

The Bandits’ training camp roster includes 12 Canadians, six British Columbians, three Americans, and one international player.

Several local players are expected to compete for roster spots, including Vancouver native Ashton Bain, Langley guard David Mutabazi, Surrey forward Majok Gum, and Coquitlam product Dominic Parolin.

Parolin enters camp following a five-year collegiate career split between Lehigh University and Boise State University, marking his first professional opportunity.

Spanish forward Dario Lopez also returns to Langley after previously competing at the University of the Fraser Valley.

Meanwhile, five players who participated in the 2026 Bandits University Combine earned invitations to training camp, including Bain, Lopez, Shadynn Smid, Jack Vandenberg, and Jalen Shirley.

The group represents the Bandits’ continued emphasis on developing Canadian and local basketball talent alongside experienced professionals.

School Day Game continues community tradition

Thursday’s School Day Game once again highlighted the Bandits’ growing connection with the Fraser Valley community.

Hundreds of students packed Langley Events Centre throughout the afternoon, creating an energetic atmosphere as Vancouver showcased its offensive firepower in the 55-point victory.

The Bandits pushed the pace throughout the contest, generating transition offence and spreading scoring across the roster.

The event also featured influencer appearances and fan engagement activities aimed at introducing younger audiences to the CEBL experience.

The annual game has become a key part of Vancouver’s community outreach calendar and continues to grow in popularity each season.

Training camp competition expected to intensify

While several veteran players are expected to occupy major roles entering the season, training camp will feature competition throughout the roster.

Players such as Jefferson Koulibaly, Dominic Parolin, and the University Combine invitees will have opportunities to earn final roster spots and carve out rotational roles ahead of opening night.

Shamar Givance is also expected to join the club following the conclusion of his current season with Champagne Basket in France.

The combination of established veterans, professional newcomers, and developmental talent gives Vancouver one of its deepest rosters entering the 2026 season.

Bandits preparing for season opener

The Bandits will open the 2026 CEBL regular season on Thursday, May 14 when they travel to Saskatoon.

Vancouver’s home opener is scheduled for Friday, May 22 against the Edmonton Stingers at Envision Financial Court at Langley Events Centre.

After setting a franchise record for wins last season, expectations around the organization continue to rise as the Bandits pursue the first championship in franchise history.