CBU’s Liai Tong Drafted to CEBL’s Edmonton Stingers

A lot of eyes were on CBU men's basketball sensation, Liai Tong (St. John's NL), in his rookie year this past AUS basketball season, including teams from the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). Tonight, during the 2025 CEBL Draft Reveal Show, Tong was selected 13th overall by the Edmonton Stingers. 

Tong's performance in his Atlantic University Sport (AUS) rookie season earned him a spot on the AUS All-Rookie Team as well as Rookie of the Year for his CBU CAPERS team. He put up some impressive stats this year, notably 15 blocked shots, 18 steals, and 207 points. Tong wowed the crowd both home and away with spectacular dunks and athleticism.

"Liai is a special talent. He is only going to continue to improve and getting a chance to be a part of a professional organization should push him to be even better," shares CAPERS Head Coach Matt Skinn. "Edmonton is year in and year out one of the most respected and well-run franchises in the CEBL. They should expect a hardworking, coachable player who will be an asset to the team on and off the floor. We are proud that Liai is the first CEBL draft pick from CBU!"

Tong will join the Stingers in Edmonton shortly and play the CEBL season with them from May 11 – August 20, 2025. For more information about the CEBL and the Edmonton Stingers, visit https:/www.cebl.ca

The CBU CAPERS will welcome Tong back to the program in the fall. To keep up to date with the CAPER men's basketball program and other CBU Athletics programs, visit gocapersgo.ca.

Congratulations, Liai! Your CBU family is very proud of you!