Ottawa BlackJacks Launch 50/50 Campaign for Youth Basketball
The Ottawa BlackJacks of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced Tuesday the creation of the team’s first 50/50 campaign, in partnership with the Ottawa Sports & Entertainment Group (OSEG) Foundation.
Funds raised through the BlackJacks 50/50 will help provide opportunities for kids in our community, who face barriers to equitable participation in sports, to play, learn and develop through basketball programs.
Fans can play along all season long by purchasing tickets online at 5050theblackjacks.ca. The first main draw will be held on July 17 following the BlackJacks nationally televised game against the defending CEBL champion Edmonton Stingers on CBC TV. The second main draw will be held on August 4 following the regular season finale against the Guelph Nighthawks.
Starting today, fans 18 years and older, and located in Ontario at the time of purchase, can buy tickets for the first draw. There is $1,000 worth of early bird prizes to be won, including 2020 game worn jerseys, BlackJacks merchandise packs and $100 sponsor gift cards.
The earlier fans purchase tickets, the more chances to win! Please play responsibly. License # RAF120885.
Ottawa will open the 2021 campaign with a three-game homestand that begins on June 24 against the Niagara River Lions, followed by a date with the Guelph Nighthawks on June 28 and concludes with a special Canada Day matinee against the Hamilton Honey Badgers.
The CEBL is preparing for its third season in 2021 following the success of this past year's CEBL Summer Series in St. Catharines, Ontario, which saw millions of viewers across Canada and around the world tune in to watch 26 games played over 15 days in a single-site league competition. The CEBL became the first professional sports league in Canada to return to play after the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus in mid-March shut down sports across the country.
Quotes:
“Basketball is emerging as one of the most popular and diverse sports in Canada. Its accessibility is one of the main reasons for its popularity. The BlackJacks have a wonderful opportunity to provide more children with the opportunity to enjoy basketball through funds raised by the new 50/50 contest. We look forward to partnering with OSEG on this important initiative so we can get a basketball in as many children’s hands as possible.”
- Michael Cvitkovic, President, Ottawa BlackJacks Basketball Club
"The OSEG Foundation continues to break down barriers so more children have a chance to embrace the power of sport through participation. Basketball is a wonderful sport and recreation activity. Together with the Ottawa BlackJacks, more children will enjoy the game and the many benefits it provides."
- Janice Barresi, Executive Director, OSEG Foundation
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About the Ottawa BlackJacks
The first expansion franchise of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), the Ottawa BlackJacks will showcase the best of basketball and entertainment in the nation’s capital. In its inaugural campaign, the BlackJacks earned a semifinal appearance at the 2020 CEBL Summer Series. The Ottawa front office brings NBA, NBA G League, NCAA and major international pro league experience to the franchise. Led by general manager Jevohn Shepherd, assistant general manager Andy Rautins and head coach Charles Dubé-Brais, Ottawa will play its home games out of the world-class Arena at TD Place in Lansdowne Park. For more information visit www.theblackjacks.ca.
About OSEG Foundation
The goal of the OSEG Foundation is to ensure all children and youth in our community have the opportunity to play, learn and develop through sports. At the OSEG Foundation, we believe that by sharing our passion for sports through structured youth development programs, kids will have an opportunity to excel and reach their full potential. Together, with our coaches and players from the Ottawa REDBLACKS and Ottawa 67s – the OSEG Foundation will develop programs and initiatives that get more kids off the sidelines and into the game.
About Canadian Elite Basketball League
A league created by Canadians for Canadians, the CEBL has the highest percentage of Canadian players of any professional league in the country, with 80 per cent of its current rosters being Canadians. Players come from the NBA G League, top international leagues, the Canadian National team program, and top NCAA programs as well as U SPORTS. The only First Division Professional League Partner of Canada Basketball, the CEBL season typically runs from May through August. Head to more information on CEBL.ca or follow us on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Linkedin, Facebook & YouTube. (@cebleague).
Social Media
Facebook: /OttawaBlackJacks
Twitter: @Ott_Blackjacks
Instagram: ottawablackjacks
Contact:
Marika Guérin
Manager, Communications and Community
Ottawa BlackJacks Professional Basketball Club