The Niagara River Lions may have seen their 2026 season come to an end on the court, but the organization is already looking ahead to what comes next.
The River Lions were eliminated by the Brampton Honey Badgers in the CEBL playoffs, but President Michelle Biskup says there is plenty to be proud of after a season that included a coaching transition and another playoff appearance.
Kimball McKenzie took over as head coach after longtime coach Victor Raso departed, stepping into his first season leading a professional men's basketball team. Biskup says the organization is happy with the job McKenzie did and has no plans to make a coaching change heading into next season.
The River Lions also ended their regular season with an impressive comeback, overcoming a 27-point deficit to win their final home game before advancing past the first round of the playoffs by defeating the league's top seed.
Their season ultimately came down to a tight playoff matchup with Brampton, with Biskup saying the ball simply didn't bounce Niagara's way during the target-score finish.
Despite the playoff finish, she says the organization is focused on building on the progress made this season - both on the court and throughout the Niagara community.
The River Lions operate year-round, and McKenzie will continue his work as the team's community ambassador during the offseason. That includes school visits, youth basketball programs, practices and keynote speeches, while the team's mascot, dance team and staff will also continue making appearances throughout Niagara.
Biskup says that community connection is particularly important as basketball continues to grow across Canada.
The CEBL continues to evolve with new playoff formats, expanded exposure and more opportunities for young players to get involved. The River Lions are seeing that growth firsthand through their PA Day and summer camps, which continue to attract large numbers of young basketball players.
For the River Lions, the end of the 2026 season doesn't mean the organization is going away for the summer. Instead, it's the beginning of another offseason focused on growing the game, strengthening its connection with Niagara and preparing for another run next year.
(Written by: Matt Latour)