ST. CATHARINES, ON – The Niagara River Lions, fresh off back-to-back Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) championships, announced today the signing of Canadian forward JD Muila. The 6’8” Ottawa, Ontario native is set to make his CEBL debut this season, bringing a wealth of international experience and a promising skillset to the reigning champions.
Muila was originally selected in the 2024 CEBL Draft by the Ottawa BlackJacks, but international commitments prevented him from joining the team at that time. He has spent the current season honing his game with Nevezis Kedainai in Lithuania’s top division, where he’s averaging 9.1 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game while shooting over 56 percent from the field. This experience will be invaluable as he transitions to the CEBL.
“JD is ready to make a big impact in the CEBL, and we’re very excited to have him join the team,” said Head Coach and General Manager Kimbal Mackenzie. “He brings elite physicality, rebounding ability and defensive prowess, and as a highly mobile 5, he can contribute in many ways offensively. He continues to grow his game each year and we expect another big leap from him this summer.”
Muila’s path to professional basketball has been anything but conventional. Before arriving in Lithuania, he enjoyed a successful run across Europe. In the 2023–24 season, he showcased his scoring prowess with Froya Basket in Norway, averaging an impressive 19.4 points and 13.8 rebounds per game. He also competed in the BNXT League with Den Helder Suns, consistently delivering double-double performances with averages of 11.1 points and 11.9 rebounds.
His collegiate career began at Indian Hills Community College (NJCAA), where he was a key contributor to a dominant program, posting a 57–10 record across two seasons. In the 2019–20 campaign, he averaged 6.5 points and a team-best 6.8 rebounds, helping the team secure a No. 2 seed in the NJCAA Tournament before the competition was unfortunately canceled.
Muila later transferred to Southern Illinois University, where he played two seasons with the Salukis, averaging 3.1 points and 4.1 rebounds after redshirting his first year due to injury. He represents a growing trend of Canadian talent making their mark on the international basketball scene.
Notably, Muila was the first graduate of Canada Topflight Academy (CTA), an elite preparatory program based out of Ottawa’s Notre Dame High School, to reach NCAA Division I basketball. He didn’t begin playing organized basketball until the age of 16, yet quickly ascended through the ranks, leading CTA to back-to-back National Preparatory Association (NPA) national championships.
The River Lions are clearly banking on Muila’s versatility and rebounding ability to bolster their frontcourt. His size, combined with his experience playing against professional competition in Europe, makes him a valuable addition to a team looking to defend its CEBL title. The team’s success hinges on integrating new talent while maintaining the chemistry that led to their championship runs.
“I’m extremely excited and blessed to have the opportunity to make my CEBL debut with the back to back CEBL champions this year,” Muila said. “I look forward to seeing all of the dedicated fans very soon!”
The addition of Muila comes as the CEBL introduces a new “Signing Day” format for 2026, replacing the traditional draft. This new format will spotlight U SPORTS and CCAA student-athletes as they officially sign with CEBL teams on April 8, 2026. The league is incentivizing teams to carry development players, with up to three eligible per game outside the club’s salary cap, further fostering the growth of Canadian basketball talent. More details on the new format are available on the CEBL website.
The Niagara River Lions have established themselves as a force in the CEBL, winning championships in both 2024 and 2025. Competing at the Meridian Centre in St. Catharines, Ontario, the River Lions represent the twelve municipalities of the Niagara Region. The team’s commitment to both on-court success and community engagement has solidified its position as a beloved franchise in the region.
What’s Next: The Niagara River Lions will continue to announce roster additions leading up to the start of the 2026 CEBL season. Fans can stay updated on the team’s progress and schedule by visiting www.riverlions.ca or following the team on social media (@NiagaraRiverLions on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn, and @RiverLions on X).
What are your thoughts on the River Lions’ latest signing? Share your predictions for Muila’s impact in the CEBL in the comments below!
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About the Niagara River Lions:
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.
