By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Canada Basketball’s program is taking a massive leap forward thanks to a $100-million joint funding package. Backed by a $76-million federal investment and Ontario’s provincial government, the team is building a permanent, state-of-the-art headquarters. Groundbreaking starts next year at Humber Polytechnic’s North Campus in Toronto. The six-gym facility, named The Hub, is designed to maximize player development and build chemistry together.
This marks a huge structural shift, drawing inspiration from European sports models. For decades, global powerhouses have relied on state-funded national training centers, like France’s legendary INSEP system, to nurture elite talent. By adopting this philosophy, Canada is creating a localized home to fully support current and future generations.
Secretary of state for sport Adam van Koeverden emphasized the project’s scale, noting that ‘this represents the single largest investment in basketball ever in this country’.
Players are already feeling the impact. “I’ve been coming here since I was a little kid. I’ve had practices, games. So many of my friends, we kind of grew up here. This place has always felt like home for Canada Basketball,” said Toronto Raptors guard RJ Barrett. “I’m one of the players that gets to use this. I’m all excited.”
Team captain Kelly Olynyk agreed, explaining how vital a centralized home is. “To have one place where you guys could meet up and train together, with or without coaches, is a big deal,” the veteran forward-center added.
The timing is perfect. On the court, Canada is battling for a spot in the FIBA World Cup 2027, sitting at 8–0 in Group F of the Americas Qualifiers, on the verge of clinching a berth.
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