The Calgary Surge added a trio of Canadian players to its roster Thursday, including one from Calgary, in the 2025 CEBL draft.
Will Tong, a 6’9” forward who played for the SAIT Trojans, was chosen by the Surge with the sixth pick of the third round.
“Growing up in Calgary and now getting the chance to play for the Surge is an incredible honour. I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent my city at the professional level,” said Tong in a media release.
The Surge also selected 6’4” guard D.J. Jackson of St. Francis Xavier University in the first round. Jackson averaged 24.4 points a game, tops in the country, and was named Atlantic University Sport (AUS) Most Valuable Player and first team all-star.
“This is a dream come true. I’m honoured to be drafted by the Surge and can’t wait to compete at the next level,” said Jackson.
In the second round, the Surge selected 6’2” guard Javier Gilgeous-Glasgow from Toronto Metropolitan University.
“I’m thankful for this opportunity with the Surge. I’m ready to work hard, represent my city, and make the most of this experience,” said Gilgeous-Glasgow.
Osabuohien returns
Earlier this week, the Surge announced that they have re-signed 6’8” forward Gabe Osabuohien for the 2025 season. Osabuohien played 16 games for the Surge in 2024, averaging 6.6 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists.
🚨SIGNING ALERT | Gabe Osabuohien is headed back to Calgary 🤠
— CEBL (@CEBLeague) April 9, 2025
Since turning pro in 2022, Osabuohien has played three seasons with the @ChargeCLE in the @nbagleague in addition to 15 games with the @CalgarySurge last summer
🗞️: https://t.co/beRnhrkZYA#PullUp | #CEBLFreeAgency… pic.twitter.com/zEzrCQwS1t
“Gabe Osabuohien embodies everything we want in a Calgary Surge player—grit, passion, and an unrelenting will to win,” said Surge general manager Shane James. “His ability to defend multiple positions and his leadership on and off the court make him a cornerstone of our team. We’re thrilled to have him back for 2025.”
“I’m excited to be back in Calgary,” said Osabuohien. “The fans, the energy, and the culture we’re building here are special. I’m ready to get back to work and help bring a championship to this city.”
The Surge open their regular season on the road, with a May 11 date against the Edmonton Stingers.
Their home opener is scheduled for May 25 against Winnipeg.
For more information about the Surge, go here.
