Winnipeg 
The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) is set to bring its Championship Weekend (CW25) to Winnipeg in August 2025, marking the event’s first occurrence in the city.
This decision follows a successful bid by the Winnipeg Sea Bears, in partnership with both the Province of Manitoba and the City of Winnipeg. The festivities, which aim to be Canada’s premier annual basketball celebration, will unfold at the Canada Life Centre and feature the league’s top teams vying for the championship title.
“Manitoba is having a moment, and the Sea Bears are part of the excitement our province is feeling,” said Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew in a news release.
“We’re proud to host Championship Weekend next year and we’re ready to showcase the kind of hospitality and sports excellence our province offers. This event will bring economic activity to our downtown, attract tourists and promote our province. My family is looking forward to it – and I’ll keep working on my three-pointer in preparation.”
The 2023 season marked the Winnipeg Sea Bears’ successful debut in the CEBL, achieving record attendance and contributing to the league’s expansion momentum since its inception in 2019.
The Manitoba government is significantly supporting this initiative, providing $1 million for the championship weekend and an additional $450,000 over three years for the Sea Bears’ operational needs.
Expected to draw over 1,300 visitors and entertain more than 10,000 spectators, the championship weekend will also feature league awards, live performances, a three-on-three basketball tournament, and legacy community projects in collaboration with local organizations.
This announcement comes as the league prepares for its 2024 Championship Weekend in Montréal, continuing the tradition of celebrating Canadian basketball across the country.
