St. Catharines, ON – The Niagara River Lions announced today the re-signing of 6’7” Canadian forward Nathan Cayo for the upcoming 2026 Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) season. The 28-year-old from Montreal, Quebec returns to Niagara after contributing to the River Lions’ championship successes over the past two seasons (2024, 2025) averaging 9.8 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.0 assists. Cayo is currently playing with the ADA Blois Basket in France’s LNB Pro B , where he has averaged 9.4 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 0.9 assists during the 2025–2026 season. “We are very excited to welcome Nathan and his family back to Niagara for year 3!”, said Head Coach and General Manager, Kimbal Mackenzie. “Cayo has played a pivotal role in our back to back championship runs, and is highly skilled, physical and smart. One underrated trait of Nathan’s that I got to see firsthand as his teammate is how competitive he is. He is primed for a big summer!” Cayo began his CEBL career with the Montreal Alliance in 2022, where he played for two seasons before joining Niagara in 2024. Internationally, he has also competed with Astoria Bydgoszcz in Poland, the Memphis Hustle and Ontario Clippers of the NBA G League , and Manchester Basketball in the United Kingdom. He played collegiately at the University of Richmond , appearing in 155 games across five seasons with the Richmond Spiders. Cayo averaged 8.9 points, 1.3 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game, finishing fourth all-time in program history in field goal percentage (55.2%). He also helped lead Richmond to the 2022 NCAA Tournament, scoring 15 points in a win over the University of Iowa to advance to the second round. Having proven himself at every level he’s competed, Cayo combines professional experience, championship pedigree, and a unique ability to impact games on both ends of the floor. Since joining Niagara, he has been a cornerstone of the River Lions’ rotation, delivering timely scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence. With two consecutive CEBL titles under his belt, Cayo enters 2026 as a proven winner and the type of player who sets the tone for a team chasing sustained success. “My family and I feel blessed to run it back for a third season!” said Cayo. “An opportunity to be part of history doesn’t come by everyday; and to try and do so in an environment that feels like home made it a no brainer. Go River Lions.” Entering their second decade, the River Lions have earned a reputation for championship-caliber performance and community impact, embodying the strength and spirit of Niagara both on and off the court. For more information, visit www.riverlions.ca or follow on social: @NiagaraRiverLions on IG , FB , TikTok , & LinkedIn and @RiverLions on X ###  Media Contact: Mya Hastings Social Media & Marketing Coordinator mhastings@riverlions.ca

St. Catharines, ON – The Niagara River Lions are proud to announce that President Michelle Biskup has been named the 2025 St. Catharines Sportsperson of the Year, a prestigious civic honour recognizing outstanding contributions to sport and community in the City of St. Catharines. She will be honoured at a ceremony on Monday March 9th at St. Catharines city hall. Presented annually by the City of St. Catharines, the Sportsperson of the Year Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, achievement, and service in sport while contributing positively to the community. The award celebrates not only competitive success, but also long-term commitment to the growth and development of sport at the local level. Biskup’s recognition marks a historic milestone for sport in St. Catharines, as both individual sport honours presented by the City, Sportsperson of the Year and Athlete of the Year, were awarded to women, with the Athlete of the Year honour presented to Madalyn Weinert. The achievement highlights the growing impact and leadership of women across all levels of sport in the community. A decade-long member of the River Lions organization, Biskup has been a driving force behind the team’s growth and stability since its earliest days. She first joined the franchise during its National Basketball League of Canada (NBL) era, remaining with the team through its transition into the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) in 2019. Now entering her 11th season with the organization, Biskup served as Vice President for four years before being appointed President in late 2024. She has been part of the River Lions’ back-to-back championship seasons in 2024 and 2025 and remains a driving force behind the franchise’s continued success and regional growth. Throughout her tenure, Biskup has played an integral role in shaping the River Lions’ culture, overseeing business operations, strengthening community partnerships, and helping establish the team as a cornerstone of professional sport in Niagara. Under her leadership, the organization has continued to grow its presence across the region while maintaining a strong commitment to community engagement, accessibility, and excellence both on and off the court. "Being named Sportsperson of the Year is an incredible honor,” said Biskup. “It’s a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and support from our team, fans, and community. I hope this recognition inspires others to chase their goals, push their limits, and make a positive impact both on and off the court." Biskup joins a notable list of River Lions leaders to receive the honour. Head Coach and General Manager Victor Raso was named St. Catharines Sportsperson of the Year in 2024 and River Lions owner Richard Petko earned the honours in 2016, further underscoring the organization’s ongoing impact within the local sports community. The Niagara River Lions are one of the founding franchises of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) and the league’s reigning back-to-back champions (2024 & 2025). Competing out of the Meridian Centre in downtown St. Catharines, from May to August each season, the River Lions proudly represent the twelve municipalities of the Niagara Region, uniting fans through passion, pride, and purpose. Entering their second decade, the River Lions have earned a reputation for championship-caliber performance and community impact, embodying the strength and spirit of Niagara both on and off the court. For more information, visit www.riverlions.ca or follow on social: @NiagaraRiverLions on IG , FB , TikTok , & LinkedIn and @RiverLions on X ### Media Contact: Mya Hastings Social Media & Marketing Coordinator mhastings@riverlions.ca

St. Catharines, ON - The Niagara River Lions announced today the return of 6’7″ Canadian forward Elijah Lufile for the upcoming 2026 Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) season. A key member of Niagara’s rotation since 2024, Lufile brings strength, energy and rebounding acumen back to the River Lions. Lufile last played for the Nadim Souaid Academy in Lebanon’s Division A averaging 31.8 minutes, 14.1 points, 10.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 0.9 blocks in 9 games. “We are thrilled to have Elijah returning for 2026. Above all else, he is a winner, through and through. Coming off of 3 championships in a row, Elijah continues to develop his game and improve,” said Kimbal Mackenzie, in his first official signing since taking over as Head Coach and General Manager. “Aside from his obvious and impressive rebounding prowess, Elijah provides us with interior scoring, excellent defense, and mobility from the 5 spot which is rare. Elijah has become a staple in our culture over the last few seasons. He brings a charisma, attitude and sense of humor that we highly value!” During the 2025 CEBL campaign, Lufile played a key role averaging 7.1 points and 6.6 rebounds per game over 25 appearances. His steady production and physicality were instrumental in securing the team’s second consecutive Championship, highlighted by a season-high 15 rebounds in the championship game. The title marked Lufile’s third CEBL crown, having first won in 2023 with the Scarborough Shooting Stars and repeating in 2024 with the Niagara River Lions. Lufile’s path to professional basketball includes a decorated collegiate career, starting with a redshirt season at Lamar Community College , a standout year at Midland College , where he posted 10 double‑doubles, and finishing at Oral Roberts University , where in his senior season he averaged 7.9 points and 7.1 rebounds while shooting over 70 percent from the field. Lufile began his professional career with the Salt Lake City Stars in the NBA G League for the 2022-23 season and eventually made his CEBL debut in the Basketball Champions League Americas (BCLA) that same year. He went on to play nine games with the Calgary Surge before closing the 2023 season with the Scarborough Shooting Star s . Internationally, Lufile played for Finland’s Joensuun Kataja Basket in the Korisliiga , averaging 12.1 points and 9.8 rebounds in the 2023-2024 season acting as a pivotal part of the team's success. “I consider myself extremely blessed to be back in CEBL for my fourth year and to run-it back with Niagara. My previous years with the team have been really fun with the guys and the amazing supporting fans” said Lufile, “This year I’m looking forward to seeing a lot more new fans, more seats filled, and another ring added to the collection”. The Niagara River Lions are one of the founding franchises of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) and the league’s reigning back-to-back champions (2024 & 2025). Competing out of the Meridian Centre in downtown St. Catharines, from May to August each season, the River Lions proudly represent the twelve municipalities of the Niagara Region, uniting fans through passion, pride, and purpose. Entering their second decade, the River Lions have earned a reputation for championship-caliber performance and community impact, embodying the strength and spirit of Niagara both on and off the court. For more information, visit www.riverlions.ca or follow on social: @NiagaraRiverLions on IG, FB, TikTok, & LinkedIn and @RiverLions on X ### Media Contact: Mya Hastings Social Media & Marketing Coordinator mhastings@riverlions.ca

St. Catharines, ON — The Niagara River Lions announced today a significant leadership transition, as Victor Raso, the longest-tenured and most successful head coach in Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) history, will transition from his role as Head Coach and General Manager into an advisory role with the organization as Senior Advisor, Player Personnel & Basketball Operations. Taking over as Head Coach and General Manager is Kimbal Mackenzie, the River Lions’ team captain and current Brand & Community Ambassador, marking a new chapter grounded in continuity, leadership, and shared values through an intentional internal succession. Since joining the River Lions in 2017, Raso has been synonymous with the franchise. Under his leadership, the organization established itself as a perennial contender, achieved historic milestones, and built one of the most respected cultures in Canadian professional basketball. His impact extends far beyond wins and losses, shaping the identity, standards, and reputation of the River Lions across the league. Victor’s accolades include: Back-to-Back CEBL Champions (2024, 2025) Longest-Tenured Head Coach in CEBL History 7 Seasons | 134 Games | 87–47 Record (.649) Never Missed the Playoffs Under His Leadership Inaugural CEBL Coach of the Year (2019) Perfect 11–0 Home Season (2024) 2024 St. Catharines Sportsperson of the Year “Victor Raso is the foundation of everything we’ve built,” said Michelle Biskup, President of the Niagara River Lions. “His vision, leadership, and commitment to this organization and community have defined our success. This transition reflects trust, intention, and belief in the future, while ensuring Victor’s legacy remains an active part of our organization as we move confidently into our next chapter.” Raso’s decision allows him to focus more fully on his young family while continuing to support the River Lions in an advisory capacity. “The River Lions gave me an unbelievable opportunity that I am forever grateful for. I am so proud of what we have accomplished and what we have built here,” said Raso. “I feel privileged to have gotten to do it in front of these incredible fans. I look forward to playing my part in our continued success as we support Kimbal and his staff!” Stepping into the role is Kimbal Mackenzie, who brings a rare blend of championship experience, leadership, and community impact. A two-time CEBL Champion (2024, 2025) and team captain, Mackenzie has been a core part of the River Lions organization since 2023, consistently embodying the culture and standards that have defined the franchise’s success. Off the court, Mackenzie has served as the club’s Brand & Community Ambassador since March 2025 and was recognized with the 2024 Ben Zwolak Community Ambassador Award for his outstanding commitment to community engagement. Mackenzie also brings coaching experience as the current Head Coach of the Ridley College Basketball Development Programme, as well as leading the Niagara College Women’s Basketball program as Interim Head Coach to a 14–2 record in 2025. A Bucknell University alumnus, he holds a BA in Economics and a Master’s degree in Finance & Investments, and has competed internationally as a member of the Great Britain National Team. “Stepping into this role is an incredible honour. This organization has built a winning culture rooted in accountability, toughness, and pride—one I was fortunate to experience firsthand playing under Vic,” said Mackenzie. “I’m deeply grateful for the foundation he built and the standard he set for what this program represents. My goal is to respect that legacy, carry it forward, and continue to win at a high level. The expectations here are clear, and I embrace them with humility and responsibility.” The Niagara River Lions enter this new era with confidence, continuity, and a clear commitment to excellence guided by a legacy that continues to shape the future. The Niagara River Lions are one of the founding franchises of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) and the league’s reigning back-to-back champions (2024 & 2025). Competing out of the Meridian Centre in downtown St. Catharines from May to August each season, the River Lions proudly represent the twelve municipalities of the Niagara Region, uniting fans through passion, pride, and purpose. Entering their second decade, the River Lions have earned a reputation for championship-caliber performance and community impact, embodying the strength and spirit of Niagara both on and off the court. For more information, visit www.riverlions.ca or follow on social: @NiagaraRiverLions on IG, FB, TikTok, & LinkedIn and @RiverLions on X. Media Contact: Michelle Biskup President mbiskup@riverlions.ca

Program facilitation to be led by Gillian's Place and Birchway Niagara, partnering agencies in the delivery of CBIM and CLEAR.