The Ottawa BlackJacks take pride in supporting their community and being key members in the growth and accessibility of the game of basketball in Ottawa-Gatineau. Through partnerships with the City of Ottawa, Christie Lake Kids, BGC Ottawa and the 2022 Ontario Summer Indigenous Games, the BlackJacks have coached and organized numerous youth basketball clinics around the city. The team has also welcomed more than 100 Indigenous athletes at the Arena at TD Place to watch a BlackJacks practice and learn from Coach Derouin.
Would you like to partner with the BlackJacks for one of your community initiatives? Contact us at [email protected] or fill out our appearance request form here.
Local basketball clubs such as the Nepean Blue Devils, Ottawa Shooting Stars, Russell Rockets, Valley Pride Basketball, Ottawa Elite, Ottawa Rising Stars and Team Believe had the opportunity to take part in exciting gameday experiences, allowing them to play on the court at TD Place before BlackJacks games, to stand on the court near the players bench during the team warmups and standing alongside players during the national anthem. Local basketball clubs who wish to learn more about Group Tickets and experiences are invited to contact the BlackJacks at [email protected].
During the 2022 CEBL Championship Weekend in Ottawa, the CEBL and the BlackJacks highlighted the community during various events, including "Community Thursday" presented by World Vision Canada and a unique experience on the Championship court at TD Place presented by Foot Locker Canada.
During the Ottawa BlackJacks last regular season game on August 1, local painter Allan Andre created an art piece that was auctioned off during CEBL Championship Weekend. A total of $700 was raised to support youth basketball, courtesy of the OSEG Foundation.
The team also launched the BlackJacks Reading Challenge and organized a book drive during the July 24 game. BlackJacks forwards Zena Edosomwan and Maxime Boursiquot visited two community centres and read inspiring books in both official languages to more than 30 children, a project in collaboration with Kids up Front.
As part of their 2022 Road to the Chip campaign, the BlackJacks hosted a basketball clinic for one of the winning classes of the 2022 BlackJacks Winter Challenge. Children and youth had the opportunity to attend the press conference and learn from BlackJacks players and coaches.
Last but not least, O.G. the BlackJacks mascot loves his community! BlackJacks fans are more than welcome to take photos with him when they see him at TD Place or around the city.
