The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CBLE) announced Monday that the Montreal Alliance has been acquired by Alli-Oop Investissements, a company newly formed by Joel Anthony, general manager of the Alliance and two-time NBA champion, Léo Bouisson , co-founder of Weeve, and Ian-Philip Paul-Hus, pharmacist-owner. The team previously belonged to the LECB.
Under the banner of Alli-Oop Investissements, this acquisition demonstrates the remarkable growth of the Alliance and its solid anchoring in the Montreal sports landscape in just three seasons of existence. The move from a multi-franchise corporate structure to a group of dedicated local owners demonstrates not only the viability of the Alliance, but also its desire to establish deep and lasting roots in Montreal.
“Returning to Montreal as general manager in 2021 was already a special moment, but becoming owner of the team represents something even more significant,” said Joel Anthony. My journey, from Montreal gyms to the NBA, taught me the importance of having a solid foundation to develop basketball. Today, with this group of owners dedicated to the city and the sport, we have the opportunity to build something lasting for Montreal. Our vision goes beyond winning on the field – we want to create a positive impact in the community and inspire the next generation of talent. »
Anthony, who played 490 games in the NBA and won two championships with the Miami Heat, brings invaluable experience from the highest level of basketball. His transition from player to general manager to owner represents a unique journey in Canadian professional sport.
“Basketball has always been part of my family history,” says Léo Bouisson, his grandfather having co-founded Cholet Basket in France, a club known for having developed NBA talents like Rudy Gobert. This connection to the development of high-level basketball, combined with my entrepreneurial experience, allows me to bring a unique perspective to this project. Our group shares a common vision: to make the Alliance a leading organization, both on the ground and in the community. »
“Being among the first season ticket holders in 2022, then becoming an owner today, is a dream come true,” adds Ian-Philip Paul-Hus. As a local business owner, I understand the importance of listening to your community. We’re already aware of the improvements our fans want in the match experience, and we’re committed to delivering on them. »
In parallel with this announcement, the organization also confirms the renewal of its lease with the Verdun Auditorium until December 31, 2026, reaffirming its commitment to the Verdun community. The team will begin its fourth season in May 2025, with an expanded schedule of 12 local games.
The Verdun Auditorium, Montreal’s oldest arena, recently benefited from a major $44 million renovation. This historic facility, which opened in 1939, serves as the home for games, a practice facility and headquarters for the organization.
-“The LECB has always had the vision of developing basketball in Canada by relying on local owners committed to their respective communities,” underlines Mike Morreale, commissioner of the LECB. This transition to a Montreal ownership group, led by such a respected figure as Joel Anthony, represents this vision perfectly. »
The new ownership group is committed to enhancing the fan experience while maintaining the community engagement that has characterized the Alliance since its beginnings.
“Our trademark has always been our connection with Montreal and the community,” explains Jo-Annie Charbonneau, president of the organization. Whether through our community programs, our presence in schools or the accessibility of our team to fans, we will continue to be a positive player in the development of sport in Montreal. The difference now is that we have the resources and expertise to make an even more significant impact. »
The acquisition of the team by this local group comes at a particularly dynamic moment for Montreal basketball. With the emergence of NBA talents like Bennedict Mathurin, Chris Boucher and Luguentz Dort, as well as the growing popularity of the sport among young people, Montreal is increasingly establishing itself as a hub for Canadian basketball.
“Our city has always had an impressive talent pool,” notes Anthony. With the Alliance, we not only want to offer a high-level show, but also create an environment where young talents can aspire to play at the professional level right here in Montreal. »
“This transition to local ownership reinforces our commitment to Montreal and its basketball community,” concludes Paul-Hus. We are three owners who understand the reality of the Montreal market and who share the same vision: to make the Alliance a winning organization of which all Montrealers can be proud. »
