By David Johnson
Basketball is having a moment right now in Canada, especially since Canadian-born Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the NBA player of the year for the 2024-25 season.
My father and I recently took in an Ottawa BlackJacks home game at TD Place—and it just happened to be CHEO Family Day, which made it extra special. Inside the arena, there was a booth promoting CHEO, and we even spotted the beloved CHEO teddy bear mascot. As part of a great partnership between CHEO and the BlackJacks, $10 from every ticket sold went directly to support CHEO.
The Blackjacks were hosting the Saskatchewan Rattlers. Before the tip-off, a hype person got the crowd going, and by the time O Canada was sung, everyone was into it.
It is impossible to appreciate the athleticism of the players without being there in person. My dad surprised me with courtside seats. At 6’0”, I usually feel tall—but being close to the BlackJacks players, I felt miniature. Their tallest player towered at 6’10.”
The match was a back-and-forth affair, with the score being 51-52 at halftime for the Rattlers—I think my dad was secretly cheering for them since he is from Saskatchewan.
Sitting courtside is an unforgettable experience. At one point, we even made it onto a sports bloopers reel—thanks to a flying basketball (or player) crashing into me. It was chaotic, but totally worth it.
The second half was also extremely close. One team would pull ahead, and then the other would come storming back. The game went right down to the wire with Saskatchewan winning on two free throws.
Besides the amazing view, courtside had extra perks, including the ability to order food directly at your seat.
The Blackjacks have created an amazing game atmosphere, with kids’ activities in the concourse and music playing a big part in the in-game experience. The team has their own DJ, DJ TDOT, and the cheer team was ever-present. The game felt like an all-ages, family-friendly party.
One trip to a BlackJacks game was all it took—I already want to go back. Whether with friends my age or enjoying it with my dad, it is a fun and memorable outing.
Now, if only they could sign Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the upcoming season!
For all things Ottawa Blackjacks, including tickets, visit theblackjacks.ca
