SCARBOROUGH, ON – The Scarborough Shooting Stars have bolstered their roster with the addition of guard Jalen Powell, the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) team announced Thursday. Powell, who has seen action in the NBA G League and internationally, brings a wealth of experience to a Shooting Stars team aiming for championship contention in the upcoming 2026 season.
Powell’s signing adds another layer of talent to a Scarborough squad that finished with a 12-8 record in 2025, falling short of a championship berth. The Shooting Stars are looking to build on that success, and the addition of a player with Powell’s skillset is a significant step in that direction. The CEBL season is slated to tip off in May, with Scarborough eager to make a strong statement.
Powell’s Journey to Scarborough
The 6-foot-5 Powell most recently played for the Nanjing Long Lions of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), where he averaged 16.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 32 games during the 2024-25 season. Prior to his time in China, Powell spent several seasons in the NBA G League, suiting up for the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, the Oklahoma City Blue, and the Salt Lake City Stars. He as well had a brief stint with the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2021-22 NBA season.
A product of Arizona State University, Powell was a standout performer for the Sun Devils, averaging 14.4 points and 6.2 rebounds during his senior year. He went undrafted in the 2020 NBA Draft but quickly found a home in the G League, showcasing his scoring ability and versatility. His collegiate career established a foundation for his professional aspirations, and he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to improvement.
What Powell Brings to the Shooting Stars
Scarborough is acquiring a player known for his scoring prowess and defensive capabilities. Powell’s ability to create his own shot, coupled with his size and athleticism, makes him a difficult matchup for opposing guards. He’s also a capable rebounder for his position, adding another dimension to his game. The Shooting Stars’ coaching staff believes Powell’s versatility will be a valuable asset as they navigate the competitive CEBL landscape.
“Jalen is a dynamic player who can score in multiple ways,” said Scarborough head coach Chris Cheng in a team statement. “His experience playing at a high level, both in the G League and internationally, will be invaluable to our team. We’re excited to have him join the Shooting Stars family.”
The CEBL Landscape and Scarborough’s Ambitions
The CEBL has quickly established itself as a premier professional basketball league in Canada, attracting both Canadian and international talent. The league features ten teams from across the country, competing for the CEBL Championship. The Shooting Stars, based in Scarborough, Ontario, have quickly become a fan favorite, known for their exciting style of play and strong community involvement.
The addition of Powell is part of a broader strategy by the Shooting Stars to contend for a championship. The team has also retained key players from last season’s roster and is actively exploring other potential additions. Scarborough’s ownership group, committed to building a winning culture, has invested heavily in the team’s infrastructure and player development programs. The goal is clear: to bring a CEBL championship to Scarborough.
The CEBL’s growing popularity is also attracting increased attention from NBA scouts, providing players like Powell with an opportunity to showcase their skills and potentially earn a return to the NBA. The league serves as a valuable platform for players looking to advance their careers, and Scarborough is positioned to be a key destination for aspiring professionals.
Looking Ahead
The Scarborough Shooting Stars will begin training camp in April, giving Coach Cheng and his staff an opportunity to integrate Powell and other new additions into the team’s system. The team’s first regular season game is scheduled for May 22nd against the Newfoundland Growlers at the Scarborough Civic Centre. Fans are encouraged to visit the team’s website, www.scarboroughshootingstars.ca, for ticket information and the latest updates.
Powell’s arrival in Scarborough marks an exciting new chapter for both the player and the team. As the CEBL season approaches, all eyes will be on the Shooting Stars as they look to make a championship run with their newly bolstered roster. The team’s commitment to excellence, combined with Powell’s talent and experience, positions them as a strong contender in the league.
The next confirmed checkpoint for the Scarborough Shooting Stars is the start of training camp in April, followed by their season opener on May 22nd. Fans can stay updated on team news and schedules through the official team website and social media channels.
