Winnipeg/IBNS: Manitoba would be hosting the 2025 Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) Championship Weekend next summer, announced jointly by Wab Kinew, Manitoba Premier, and Glen Simard, Sport and Tourism Minister.

“Manitoba is having a moment...We’re proud to host Championship Weekend next year and…sports excellence…bring economic activity to our downtown, attract tourists and promote our province…I’ll keep working on my three-pointer in preparation,” Kinew has said.

“The Winnipeg Sea Bears’ inaugural season was wildly successful and demonstrates the passion for basketball in our province,” said Simard. “We are thrilled to support the Sea Bears’ winning bid to host the 2025 CEBL Championship Weekend. Bringing this event to Manitoba will bring our community together, and will bring economic benefits for our downtown restaurants, bars and hotels.”

Besides $1 million in support by the Manitoba government in bringing the 2025 CEBL Championship Weekend to Winnipeg, the province is also investing $450,000 over three years for the team’s initial operations, the premier noted.

In addition to featuring the CEBL’s top teams and a festival which includes the league awards and live performances from top local and Canadian artists, the Championship Weekend 2025 will also feature a three-on-three basketball event and community legacy projects in partnership with Basketball Manitoba and Buckets and Borders, and other activities.

With an estimate of over 1,300 visitors and more than 10,000 spectators through a variety of activities and programming, the premier estimates over $4.5-million economic boost.

“Hosting Championship Weekend 2025 is an incredible opportunity...gives us another chance to really show our appreciation for our fans...to celebrate basketball together," said Jason Smith, president, Winnipeg Sea Bears.

(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)