Toronto, Ontario, Canada — November 7–9, 2025
The Grind Session continues its global expansion this week with its second stop of the 2025–26 season, landing in Toronto, Ontario for a three-day international showcase at the Pan American Centre. Following October’s groundbreaking Bridge of Hoops event in Bassano Del Grappa, Italy, the Grind Session now returns to North America — marking its second event outside the United States this season.
Although last week’s scheduled event in Jamaica was canceled due to Hurricane Melissa, the energy around Toronto is stronger than ever as both the men’s and women’s Power Conference take the stage in one of Canada’s premier basketball cities.
Power Conference Matchups: USA Meets Canada and Italy
The men’s field features a blend of North American powerhouses and international talent. Representing Canada are three of the Grind Session’s strongest programs — Royal Crown (ON), Fort Erie (ON), and Orangeville Prep (ON) — joined by the first-ever European men’s program to compete in the Grind Session, Star Alliance (ITA).
Star Alliance, based in Italy, made history in October when it hosted the inaugural Bridge of Hoops event in Bassano Del Grappa. Now, they make their North American debut in Toronto, led by standout forward Ricards Aizpurs, who starred for Latvia at the FIBA U16 EuroBasket 2024, averaging 18.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game.
Joining the field from the United States are a strong group of contenders:
- Mt. Zion Prep (MD) — Led by versatile guard Francis Folefac, one of the most exciting young guards in the Power Conference.
- iSchool (TX) — Consistently athletic and well-coached, with Caleb Richard emerging as a name to watch this season.
- Southeastern Prep (FL) — Adding Obinna Ekezie, a 7’ forward/center transferring in from Prolific Prep, and point guard Beckham Black they ready to make an immediate impact.
- DNA Prep (CA) — The only California-based Power Conference team, led by sophomore guard Jayden Robinson, a developing floor general known for his leadership and competitiveness.
- Albuquerque Prep (NM) — Making its first Grind Session appearance this season, bringing a disciplined and balanced roster led by senior Brandon Mason Jr.
With three powerhouse Canadian programs defending home turf and international teams joining the mix, the Toronto stop is shaping up to be one of the most competitive events of the early season.
Revolution Conference Showdown: Royal Crown vs. Legion Prep Kicks Things Off
The women’s Power Conference will also be in action in Toronto, featuring elite programs from both sides of the border: Legion Prep (TX), Royal Crown (ON), Fort Erie (ON), Example Academy (IL), and Albuquerque Prep (NM).
The first game of the weekend tips off Friday at 2:30 PM, and it could be one of the best matchups of the entire event — the defending women’s champion Royal Crown taking on Legion Prep from Texas.
Legion Prep enters the Grind Session with a revamped leadership team. Head Coach Del’Vin Dickerson and Director of Operations Irving Roland bring over 30 years of combined experience working with NBA, WNBA, and Division I athletes. The team will be led by Rieyan DeSouze, a talented guard committed to Texas A&M, whose strength and poise make her one of the premier players in the field.
Royal Crown, last season’s women’s champion, returns with a talented and deep roster led by:
- Amaya Robinson (2026) – A standout guard known for her range and clutch shooting.
- Chance Barry – One of Canada’s top-ranked scorers, explosive in transition and fearless attacking the basket.
- Yoyo – A physical presence in the low post, dominant on the boards.
- Disia Salgado – A dynamic player capable of catching fire early.
- Haley Marshall – A dangerous three-point shooter who can change a game in minutes.
- Rain Marie Luke – One of the youngest players in the conference, already proving herself as a rising star.
With both Royal Crown programs — men’s and women’s — defending their home soil, and new faces like Legion Prep and Star Alliance joining the fray, the Toronto event is expected to deliver high-level competition and international flair throughout the weekend.
Expanding the Global Grind
This stop marks yet another milestone in the Grind Session’s growing global reach. With teams now representing the United States, Canada, and Europe, and plans for future international events in the works, the platform continues to lead the way in global prep basketball exposure.
From the courts of California and Texas to the gymnasiums of Ontario and Italy, the Grind Session remains true to its mission — giving players from every corner of the world the opportunity to compete, grow, and showcase their dreams on an international stage.
