The stars continue to align for Brandon University hoops standout Sultan Haider Bhatti.
 
He was chosen first overall by the Montreal Alliance in the 2025 Canadian Elite Basketball League Draft.

"Sultan represents exactly what we're building in Montreal - a versatile, high-IQ player with deep local roots who can impact the game in multiple ways," said Montreal Alliance General Manager and co-owner Joel Anthony. "His combination of scoring ability and playmaking at his position, plus his double-double production at the university level, made him the clear choice at number one. We believe his game will translate well to the professional level."
 
Bhatti became the first Bobcat men's basketball player to be honoured as an all-Canadian since 2009.
 
He was also co-winner of BU's Male Athlete of the Year Award for the second straight season to conclude the 2024-25 campaign.
 
Bhatti led Canada West in rebounding at 10.7 boards per-game, good for third in the nation.

He finished second in conference scoring at 20.4 points per-game and fifth in assists per-contest at 4.5.

"Growing up in Montreal, playing professional basketball in Montreal has always been a dream," said Bhatti. "I'm honoured to be selected first overall by the Alliance and can't wait to bring my game back home and contribute to building something special here."

Montreal starts the regular season schedule at home on May 18 against the Brampton Honey Badgers.
 
The Alliance will make history on May 23 when they take on the Ottawa Blackjacks at IGA Stadium – the original home of the Major League Baseball's Montreal Expos.
 
According to the CEBL, it will be the first-ever professional five-on-five basketball game held outdoors in Canada. The game will be nationally televised on TSN.
 
Bobcat fans will have the chance to see 'Batman' and the Alliance LIVE in Winnipeg on June 11 when Montreal visits the Sea Bears.

Following the CEBL season, Bhatti will be back in blue and gold for his fifth and final year with the Bobcats in 2025-26.