April 23 — Professional sports and live entertainment company, REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. (REAL) announced today that its Calgary Surge property of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) will host three marquee games during the 2026 season, with stops in Lethbridge, Red Deer, and a highly anticipated return to the Scotiabank Saddledome during the Calgary Stampede. Following the success of their first neutral-site event in Red Deer, the team continues to expand its reach beyond its home venue at WinSport Event Centre, bringing high-energy professional basketball and unforgettable fan experiences to communities across Alberta. "The Calgary Surge continue to find impactful ways to bring the CEBL experience to Albertans," said CEBL President and CEO Ty Mazereeuw. "These marquee events will deliver exciting pro basketball featuring teams from three provinces, connecting Canadians and their communities through our sport." “Tens of thousands of Albertans have embraced the Surge and the CEBL, and we take seriously the responsibility that comes with that support,” said Jason Ribeiro, Co-Chairman & President of REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. “As live events operators and community builders, we believe these marquee games do more than showcase great basketball — they create energy, drive economic impact, and help strengthen communities across our province. We are deeply grateful for the partnerships we’ve formed with venues, municipalities, and fans that have enabled us to scale the growth of basketball across Canada.” Building on the success of the league’s first neutral-site regular season game, the Calgary Surge will return to Red Deer’s Marchant Crane Centrium for SURGE 2 RED DEER for the second consecutive year. The team will face the Edmonton Stingers on Sunday, May 31 at 4:00 p.m. , welcoming fans from across the province. Last year’s Battle of Alberta was the fourth-highest grossing and attended game in franchise history, creating an electric atmosphere and showcasing Red Deer’s growing passion for basketball and arts and culture. “Sport is key to building healthy, vibrant communities and is a driver of sport tourism, as fans and athletes play, stay, shop and dine,” said Honourable Andrew Boitchenko, Minister of Tourism and Sport. “I’d like to offer a warm Alberta welcome to all CEBL teams from across the country, as they visit the host cities of Lethbridge, Red Deer, and Calgary, and best of luck to our Calgary Surge and Edmonton Stingers!” Next up, the Surge will play a marquee game in Lethbridge on Saturday, June 20 at 5:00 p.m. , introducing professional basketball to southern Alberta. The Surge will take on the Montreal Alliance in this historic SURGE 2 LETHBRIDGE matchup, marking the team’s first-ever appearance in the city. The event will feature the same high-energy game presentation, entertainment, and community engagement that have defined the Surge experience. “Lethbridge is proud to host the Calgary Surge and the Canadian Elite Basketball League for this historic return of professional basketball to our city,” says Mayor Blaine Hyggen. “It’s an exciting opportunity to showcase Lethbridge’s vibrant community, outstanding facilities and enthusiasm for major sporting events. We’re ready to welcome fans from across the region for a memorable night!” Lastly, in collaboration with the Calgary Stampede, REAL also announced the return of professional basketball to The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth with SURGE 2 STAMPEDE taking place on Thursday, July 9 at 6:30 p.m. at the Scotiabank Saddledome where the Calgary Surge will face the Vancouver Bandits. The Calgary Surge and the Vancouver Bandits had the two best regular season records in the CEBL during the 2025 season and were opponents in the Western Conference Semifinal that saw the Surge victorious and qualify for their third straight Championship Weekend appearance. Game tickets, starting at $44 plus applicable fees and taxes, include admission to Stampede Park for the entire day and night on July 9, giving fans the chance to explore the rides, food, music, and entertainment of the Calgary Stampede. Fans can attend the game and then make their way to the Coca-Cola Stage to catch globally successful alt-rock phenomenon Mother Mother at 9:00pm or Nashville North to see one of Billboard’s top country artists of the decade, Chris Young at 10:15pm. “We see every year through our Rodeo and Chuckwagon and Relay Races how live sport brings people together at the Calgary Stampede,” said Allison Wright, Director of Stampede Programming at the Calgary Stampede. “We’re excited to build on that tradition by welcoming the Calgary Surge back to Stampede 2026 and offering fans an all-in-one experience — from a full day exploring all that the Stampede has to offer, to live professional basketball at the Saddledome, and the chance to keep the celebration going after the final buzzer.” Tickets for all three events are available now via SURGE2REDDEER.ca , SURGE2LETHBRIDGE.ca , and SURGE2STAMPEDE.ca . Fans are encouraged to secure their seats early to ensure the best selection. For more information on the event and ticket options, visit calgarysurge.ca . Additional Quotes Susan Eymann – Executive Director, Lethbridge Sport Council “We are thrilled to welcome the Calgary Surge to Lethbridge. Their approach to using the game to bring people together and share messages of inclusion reflects what we believe in — that everyone is welcome in sport, whether you’re participating or cheering from the sidelines.” ---------------- About REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. & the Calgary Surge REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. (REC) is a professional sports and live entertainment company co-founded by Jason Ribeiro that operates the Calgary Surge Professional Basketball Club and REAL Studios. The Calgary Surge tipped off their inaugural season at WinSport Event Centre in May 2023, after originating as the Guelph Nighthawks, one of the founding members of the CanadianElite Basketball League (CEBL). The Surge are active members of the community and have participated in a few hundred events (and counting) around the city that connect the team with diverse communities through sport, entertainment, and arts and culture. Over three seasons, the Surge have made three straight CEBL Championship Weekend appearances, were crowned Western Conference Champions in 2023 and 2025, hold the league’s single-game attendance record, and have sent over 6500 deserving kids and families to their games for free. For more information, visit www.calgarysurge.ca . About the CEBL The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) is Canada’s professional basketball league, with 10 member clubs across six provinces. Blending global innovation with local connection, the league is redefining how the game is played and experienced while rooting its teams deeply in communities coast to coast. With a fan base of 4.1 million Canadians – up 57 per cent since 2022 – the CEBL has cultivated Canada’s youngest basketball audience, with more than half of its fans aged 34 or younger. Its rapid growth reflects its ability to connect authentically with a new generation of basketball fans while expanding the sport’s cultural footprint nationwide. In 2025, the CEBL featured 17 players with NBA experience, and nearly 70 per cent of its athletes were Canadian – the highest proportion of domestic talent in any professional sports league in the country. To date, nearly 40 players have signed NBA contracts following CEBL seasons, which run from May through August. Visit CEBL.ca or follow @cebleague on social media. About the Calgary Stampede The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We’re Greatest Together, we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and celebrates our western heritage, cultures and community spirit. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities. Media Contact: Karina Castellanos Feijoó Manager, Projects & Administration Calgary Surge 647-916-3594; [email protected] Julie Forget Manager, Communications & Media Relations Calgary Stampede [email protected] 403.836.7317

April 21 — The Calgary Surge of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today that guard Brandon Muntu has signed with the team for the 2026 season, marking his first professional campaign in the league. Muntu brings versatility, energy, and a strong two-way presence to the Surge roster as Calgary continues to build a competitive lineup heading into the new season. “Brandon is an exciting addition for us,” said General Manager Shane James. “He’s a high- motor player who competes on both ends of the floor and brings a level of toughness and athleticism that fits our identity.” A 6’4” guard, Muntu is known for his length, defensive instincts, and ability to contribute to multiple areas of the game. His rebounding, transition play, and physical style give Calgary added depth and flexibility on the wing and in the frontcourt. “I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to join the Calgary Surge. Being from Calgary, this means a lot to me, and I’m excited to represent my city,” said Muntu. “I’m looking forward to competing, growing with the team, and giving the fans something to be proud of this season.” Muntu joins the Surge following his collegiate career at Tennesse Tech University, where he competed at a high level in NCAA Division I basketball. During the 2025–26 season, he averaged 9.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game, while shooting 41.8 percent from the field. His production reflected his ability to contribute offensively while maintaining a strong defensive presence and high level of effort. Throughout his college career, Muntu developed a reputation as a reliable and disciplined player, capable of guarding multiple positions and contributing within a team-first system. His experience in a competitive program has prepared him well for the transition to the professional ranks. Prior to Tennesse Tech, Muntu played two seasons at Western Michigan, including a 2024–25 campaign where he appeared in all 32 games and averaged 5.7 points, while earning multiple academic honors. He previously starred at Triton College, earning NJCAA Third Team All- American honors in 2022–23, and began his collegiate career at Vincennes University. A Canadian native, he developed at Dohn Prep Academy and has participated in Canadian National Team training camps at the U16, U18, and U23 levels. With Muntu’s addition, the Surge continue to strengthen their roster with young, driven talent as they prepare for the 2026 CEBL season. Single-game tickets for the Calgary Surge’s “OVERDRIVE” season are now available to the general public. Visit calgarysurge.ca/single-game-tickets for more details. About REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. & the Calgary Surge REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. (REC) is a professional sports and live entertainment company co-founded by Jason Ribeiro that operates the Calgary Surge Professional Basketball Club and REAL Studios. The Calgary Surge tipped off their inaugural season at WinSport Event Centre in May 2023, after originating as the Guelph Nighthawks, one of the founding members of the CanadianElite Basketball League (CEBL). The Surge are active members of the community and have participated in a few hundred events (and counting) around the city that connect the team with diverse communities through sport, entertainment, and arts and culture. Over three seasons, the Surge have made three straight CEBL Championship Weekend appearances, were crowned Western Conference Champions in 2023 and 2025, hold the league’s single-game attendance record, and have sent over 6500 deserving kids and families to their games for free. For more information, visit www.calgarysurge.ca . About the CEBL The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) is Canada’s professional basketball league, with 10 member clubs across six provinces. Blending global innovation with local connection, the league is redefining how the game is played and experienced while rooting its teams deeply in communities coast to coast. With a fan base of 4.1 million Canadians – up 57 per cent since 2022 – the CEBL has cultivated Canada’s youngest basketball audience, with more than half of its fans aged 34 or younger. Its rapid growth reflects its ability to connect authentically with a new generation of basketball fans while expanding the sport’s cultural footprint nationwide. In 2025, the CEBL featured 17 players with NBA experience, and nearly 70 per cent of its athletes were Canadian – the highest proportion of domestic talent in any professional sports league in the country. To date, nearly 40 players have signed NBA contracts following CEBL seasons, which run from May through August. Visit CEBL.ca or follow @cebleague on social media. Media Contact: Karina Castellanos Feijoó Manager, Projects & Administration Calgary Surge 647-916-3594; [email protected]

April 17 — The Calgary Surge of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today that centre Javonté Brown will return to the team for the 2026 season after making his professional debut in 2025. Brown, a key presence in the paint, brings size, physicality, and veteran leadership back to the Surge lineup. His return strengthens Calgary’s frontcourt as the team builds toward another competitive CEBL campaign. “Javonté is an important piece of what we’re building here in Calgary,” said General Manager Shane James. “His presence and growing professional experience make a significant impact for us on and off the court. We’re excited to have him back with the Surge for 2026.” Brown, a 7’0”, 240-pound native of Toronto, ON, is a mobile big man known for his shot-blocking, rebounding, and soft touch around the rim. His length and agility make him a valuable interior contributor on both ends of the floor. In the 2025 CEBL season, Brown averaged 6.5 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. The Surge also posted a 75 percent win rate in games he started, highlighting his impact and importance within the lineup. “Feels great to be back with the Surge. I’ve got a lot of love for Calgary and what we’re building here,” said Brown “I’m locked in on coming back better, competing every night, and doing whatever it takes to win a Championship. Can’t wait to get in front of the fans again.” During the offseason, Brown continued his professional career overseas with Grupo Ureta Tizona Burgos in Spain. He averaged 6.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game, showcasing his defensive presence and ability to compete against high-level international talent. Brown played for the University of Rhode Island during the 2024–25 NCAA season, where he started all 31 games. He averaged 8.1 points and 5.8 rebounds in just over 20 minutes per game while shooting 65 percent from the field. He recorded a season-high 21 points and 10 rebounds against Temple and added multiple blocks in key conference matchups.  Prior to Rhode Island, Brown gained NCAA Division I experience at Western Michigan (2022–23), Texas A&M (2021–22), and UConn (2020–21). At Texas A&M, he made 11 starts and helped the program reach the NIT Championship Game. Across his collegiate career, he developed under elite coaching staff while competing in both Power Five and mid-major conferences. The Calgary Surge tip off their 2026 CEBL season this spring. Additional roster announcements and schedule details will be shared in the coming weeks. Single-game tickets for the Calgary Surge’s “OVERDRIVE” season are now available to the general public. Visit calgarysurge.ca/single-game-tickets for more details. About REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. & the Calgary Surge REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. (REC) is a professional sports and live entertainment company co-founded by Jason Ribeiro that operates the Calgary Surge Professional Basketball Club and REAL Studios. The Calgary Surge tipped off their inaugural season at WinSport Event Centre in May 2023, after originating as the Guelph Nighthawks, one of the founding members of the CanadianElite Basketball League (CEBL). The Surge are active members of the community and have participated in a few hundred events (and counting) around the city that connect the team with diverse communities through sport, entertainment, and arts and culture. Over three seasons, the Surge have made three straight CEBL Championship Weekend appearances, were crowned Western Conference Champions in 2023 and 2025, hold the league’s single-game attendance record, and have sent over 6500 deserving kids and families to their games for free. For more information, visit www.calgarysurge.ca . About the CEBL The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) is Canada’s professional basketball league, with 10 member clubs across six provinces. Blending global innovation with local connection, the league is redefining how the game is played and experienced while rooting its teams deeply in communities coast to coast. With a fan base of 4.1 million Canadians – up 57 per cent since 2022 – the CEBL has cultivated Canada’s youngest basketball audience, with more than half of its fans aged 34 or younger. Its rapid growth reflects its ability to connect authentically with a new generation of basketball fans while expanding the sport’s cultural footprint nationwide. In 2025, the CEBL featured 17 players with NBA experience, and nearly 70 per cent of its athletes were Canadian – the highest proportion of domestic talent in any professional sports league in the country. To date, nearly 40 players have signed NBA contracts following CEBL seasons, which run from May through August. Visit CEBL.ca or follow @cebleague on social media. Media Contact: Karina Castellanos Feijoó Manager, Projects & Administration Calgary Surge 647-916-3594; [email protected]

April 15 — The Calgary Surge of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today their coaching staff for the 2026 season, adding a blend of professional, university, and international experience to the organization’s bench. Joining the Surge and Head Coach Perry Huang for the 2026 campaign are Sidney Dobner, David DeAveiro, and returning assistant coach Kenny Otieno. Otieno returns to the Surge after a strong 2025 season with the club. A former standout at the University of Alberta, he helped lead the Golden Bears to a Canada West Championship and U SPORTS national bronze medal. He most recently played for the Edmonton Stingers at the professional level. Following his playing career, Otieno transitioned into coaching with both the Edmonton Stingers and University of Lethbridge Pronghorns, where he eventually became the program’s head coach in 2023. He brings a strong foundation in player development, scouting, and defensive structure. “I’m looking forward to my second year with the Surge! Last year was special even though we fell short of our championship goal,” said Otieno. “I’m excited to run it back this season with a reloaded team and a great staff. We appreciate the continued support of our fans and look forward to seeing them this summer!” Dobner joins the Surge after coaching in the NBA and NBA G League system, most recently with the Stockton Kings. She previously worked within the Milwaukee Bucks organization, advancing from player development and video roles with the Wisconsin Herd before becoming the first female assistant coach in Milwaukee Bucks history in 2023. Dobner served in a developmental role during the franchise’s 2021 NBA Championship-winning season. Dobner has also worked in NBA Summer League and pre-draft environments, specializing in film breakdown, scouting, and player development. “I am grateful for the opportunity to join the Calgary Surge and be part of a group that’s hungry to compete,” said Dobner. “It’s special to be back in Canada, and I’m looking forward to bringing energy, attention to detail, and a winning mindset as we build something special this season.” DeAveiro brings over two decades of coaching experience across U SPORTS, Canada Basketball, and the CEBL. He is currently the head coach of the Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Bold, and previously led both the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees and McGill University, combining for over 400 career wins, multiple conference championships, and eight U SPORTS Final 8 appearances. At McGill, he captured five RSEQ titles and while at the University of Ottawa he set the program’s all-time wins record. Internationally, DeAveiro has coached with Canada Basketball at multiple FIBA events. He has also held multiple coaching roles in the CEBL with the Ottawa BlackJacks. In 2025, he reached his 500th U SPORTS career win, ranking among the winningest coaches in Canadian university basketball history. “I’m excited for the opportunity to join the Surge coaching staff and help bring a championship to the city of Calgary,” said DeAveiro. The Calgary Surge continues to prioritize building a coaching staff that reflects the organization’s core values of community, development, and competitive excellence. With a blend of continuity and new leadership, the 2026 staff is well-positioned to support the team’s pursuit of a CEBL championship. Single-game tickets for the Calgary Surge’s “OVERDRIVE” season are now available to the general public. Visit calgarysurge.ca/single-game-tickets for more details. About REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. & the Calgary Surge REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. (REC) is a professional sports and live entertainment company co-founded by Jason Ribeiro that operates the Calgary Surge Professional Basketball Club and REAL Studios. The Calgary Surge tipped off their inaugural season at WinSport Event Centre in May 2023, after originating as the Guelph Nighthawks, one of the founding members of the CanadianElite Basketball League (CEBL). The Surge are active members of the community and have participated in a few hundred events (and counting) around the city that connect the team with diverse communities through sport, entertainment, and arts and culture. Over three seasons, the Surge have made three straight CEBL Championship Weekend appearances, were crowned Western Conference Champions in 2023 and 2025, hold the league’s single-game attendance record, and have sent over 6500 deserving kids and families to their games for free. For more information, visit www.calgarysurge.ca . About the CEBL The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) is Canada’s professional basketball league, with 10 member clubs across six provinces. Blending global innovation with local connection, the league is redefining how the game is played and experienced while rooting its teams deeply in communities coast to coast. With a fan base of 4.1 million Canadians – up 57 per cent since 2022 – the CEBL has cultivated Canada’s youngest basketball audience, with more than half of its fans aged 34 or younger. Its rapid growth reflects its ability to connect authentically with a new generation of basketball fans while expanding the sport’s cultural footprint nationwide. In 2025, the CEBL featured 17 players with NBA experience, and nearly 70 per cent of its athletes were Canadian – the highest proportion of domestic talent in any professional sports league in the country. To date, nearly 40 players have signed NBA contracts following CEBL seasons, which run from May through August. Visit CEBL.ca or follow @cebleague on social media. Media Contact: Karina Castellanos Feijoó Manager, Projects & Administration Calgary Surge 647-916-3594; [email protected]

April 13 — The Calgary Surge of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced today that guard Evan Gilyard II has re-signed with the team for the upcoming season. Gilyard II returns to Calgary after an electrifying 2025 campaign where he established himself as one of the league’s most dynamic backcourt players. In 16 games with the Surge, the Chicago native averaged over 20 points, 4.8 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game, while shooting efficiently from the field and beyond the arc. His ability to control the tempo, create offense, and deliver in key moments made him a cornerstone of Calgary’s success. The 5’10” guard also delivered under bright lights, including a standout performance at the Scotiabank Saddledome during SURGE 2 STAMPEDE, where he set a franchise regular season scoring record with 37 points to propel the Surge to victory. Since the conclusion of the CEBL season, Gilyard II has continued to elevate his professional résumé, most recently winning the NBA G League Championship this past weekend with the Greensboro Swarm, adding a major accomplishment that underscores his ability to perform and win at a high level. “Evan is a proven playmaker and competitor who embodies the identity of our team,” said Surge General Manager Shane James. “His scoring ability and experience make him an important piece as we continue building toward a championship.” Prior to his professional career, Gilyard II attended Simeon Career Academy in Chicago, Illinois, before embarking on an impressive collegiate journey. He competed at the University of Texas at El Paso, New Mexico State, and the University of Missouri–Kansas City in the NCAA, where he earned First-Team All-Summit League honours. After going undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft, Gilyard II turned pro and has built a well-traveled resume. Most recently he played in the NBA G League with the Greensboro Swarm (Charlotte Hornets affiliate), Memphis Hustle (Memphis Grizzlies affiliate), and Raptors 905 (Toronto Raptors affiliate). In a March 2025 game for the Raptors 905 he erupted for a career-high 34 points in a win over the Windy City Bulls. Gilyard II has also been named as a recipient of the NBA G League Community Assist Award (2024-25), recognizing his significant impact and dedication to community service. “I’m excited to join the team for a second year and to bring more success to the organization and the Calgary community,” said Gilyard II. Known for his speed and ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor, Gilyard II brings continuity and excitement back to the Surge lineup as the team prepares for the upcoming CEBL season. Single-game tickets for the Calgary Surge’s “OVERDRIVE” season are now available to the general public. Visit calgarysurge.ca/single-game-tickets for more details. About REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. & the Calgary Surge REAL Entertainment & Culture Inc. (REC) is a professional sports and live entertainment company co-founded by Jason Ribeiro that operates the Calgary Surge Professional Basketball Club and REAL Studios. The Calgary Surge tipped off their inaugural season at WinSport Event Centre in May 2023, after originating as the Guelph Nighthawks, one of the founding members of the CanadianElite Basketball League (CEBL). The Surge are active members of the community and have participated in a few hundred events (and counting) around the city that connect the team with diverse communities through sport, entertainment, and arts and culture. Over three seasons, the Surge have made three straight CEBL Championship Weekend appearances, were crowned Western Conference Champions in 2023 and 2025, hold the league’s single-game attendance record, and have sent over 6500 deserving kids and families to their games for free. For more information, visit www.calgarysurge.ca . About the CEBL The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) is Canada’s professional basketball league, with 10 member clubs across six provinces. Blending global innovation with local connection, the league is redefining how the game is played and experienced while rooting its teams deeply in communities coast to coast. With a fan base of 4.1 million Canadians – up 57 per cent since 2022 – the CEBL has cultivated Canada’s youngest basketball audience, with more than half of its fans aged 34 or younger. Its rapid growth reflects its ability to connect authentically with a new generation of basketball fans while expanding the sport’s cultural footprint nationwide. In 2025, the CEBL featured 17 players with NBA experience, and nearly 70 per cent of its athletes were Canadian – the highest proportion of domestic talent in any professional sports league in the country. To date, nearly 40 players have signed NBA contracts following CEBL seasons, which run from May through August. Visit CEBL.ca or follow @cebleague on social media. Media Contact: Karina Castellanos Feijoó Manager, Projects & Administration Calgary Surge 647-916-3594; [email protected]