Canada Has 2 Different Leagues:

*includes every school in Canada besides SFU who compete in the NCAA.

USPORTS - The Canadian University Sports Association

• Includes conferences Canada West, OUA, RSEQ, and AUS

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Schools like:

• UBC
• STFX
• University of Calgary
• University of Waterloo

Academics:

• Programs Offered: Full undergraduate degrees (typically 4 years), with options to continue to graduate studies.
• Admission Averages: Typically more competitive than CCAA. Most universities require around 75–80% for general entry, but more selective programs (commerce, sciences, engineering) often demand 80–90%+.
• Academic Commitment: Workload is heavier than college; balancing academics with basketball is more demanding. You need strong study skills, time management, and consistency.
• Support: Universities usually offer academic advisors, tutoring, and student-athlete resources, but players are expected to be self-directed.

Basketball:

• High Level of Play: USPORT basketball is the top level of university competition in Canada.
• Player Development: Coaches expect you to come in ready to contribute, but they also invest heavily in your growth. Practices are intense, with a focus on conditioning, team defence, and decision-making. You’ll be competing daily with older, stronger teammates.
• Tough Competition: Every game is competitive. Even mid-level teams feature players who were stars in high school. </aside>

Andre on SSB’s Recruiting Trip to Ottawa

Andre Novicic visited Ottawa on SSB’s East Coast Recruiting trip in his Grade 12 year. He joined the GeeGees the next year!

CCAA - The Canadian College Athletic Association

• Includes conferences PAC WEST, ACAC, OCAA, RSEQ, ACAA

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CCAA

Schools like:

• Langara College
• Vancouver Island University
• Capilano University
• Fanshawe College

Academics:

• Programs Offered: Mostly 2–3 year diplomas, certificates, and applied degrees. Recently more CCAA schools (eg. Capilano and VIU) are able to offer 4 year degrees.
• Admission Averages: More accessible than USports schools in general. Many programs require around 65–70% average from high school, though some applied/technical programs may accept lower. Competitive programs (e.g. health sciences, business) may need higher.
• Flexibility: Colleges can be a good fit for students who want smaller classes, more applied/practical learning.
• Transfer Options: Many CCAA schools have transfer pathways into U SPORTS universities. You could start with a diploma, then move into a degree program later.

Basketball:

• Playing Time: More opportunities to get on the court earlier in your career.
• Competition Level: Solid competition but generally not as deep or fast-paced as U SPORTS. Teams often have a mix of local players, late developers, and athletes who are still building skill and strength.
• Training & Commitment: Practices and travel are serious, but the schedule may be slightly lighter than U SPORTS, making balance with academics easier. </aside>

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Braham Nair played against Langara during his Grade 12 Cobras season. He went straight from Gladstone to Langara.

Canada = 5 years of Eligibility

• No time restrictions on your eligibility (Clock)
• Redshirt year does not count against eligibility
• Must maintain 2.0 to stay eligible
• Minimum 3 class per term (Usually you take 4 to complete your degree in 5 years)