Calgary Surge names first-ever general manager

Shane James has been named the Calgary Surge new general manager. (Calgary Surge, Twitter)

By Sandra Prusina

Posted Feb 8, 2023 12:48 pm.

Last Updated Feb 8, 2023 12:52 pm.

Calgary’s new Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) team brings a wealth of experience to its front office this inaugural season.

The Surge has named Shane James as their first-ever general manager.

James, who was born in Toronto, joins the Surge after taking on the assistant GM duties of the Guelph Nighthawks for a pair of seasons before the franchise moved to Calgary last year.

He has also played a key role in developing talent across the country as the founder and director of the Under Armour Canada Elite AAU basketball program.

James also started the Canadian Youth Basketball League.

 

Read More: The Surge: Calgary’s basketball team named

“I am honoured to join the Calgary Surge as the club’s first general manager and to work in partnership with Jason and the Surge front office to build a championship-winning roster,” the former pro said Wednesday.

“I have been really impressed with what the Surge are doing in the community and for youth since launching in October. Surge fans can look forward to an entertaining basketball experience when they pass through the doors of WinSport Event Centre beginning this spring.”

Surge vice-chairman and president Jason Ribeiro expressed gratitude over the signing of James as the GM.

“He has developed an eye for Canadian talent that is second to none,” Ribeiro said. “Most importantly, his values deeply align with the Calgary Surge’s commitment to community and our desire to win a championship for the city.”

James played NCAA Division One basketball for four seasons at Loyola University, where he was named the team’s MVP.

Before returning to Canada, he suited up professionally in the Czech Republic, Mexico, and Switzerland.

The inaugural campaign kicks off for the Surge Saturday, May 27, at WinSport for the Battle of Alberta versus the Edmonton Stingers.

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