Capers Men’s Basketball Standouts Stefan Anisko and Tayshaun Thomas Selected in 2026 CEBL Signing Day

The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) officially announced its first Signing Day selections on April 8, a new format replacing the traditional CEBL draft process, with two Cape Breton University (CBU) student-athletes making the jump to the professional ranks.

The Signing Day selection of Stefan Anisko and Tayshaun Thomas is part of an ongoing partnership between the CEBL, U SPORTS and the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association, that provides a professional platform for elite Canadian talent to develop during the summer months without compromising their university status.

Professional Development and Academic Continuity

Under the CEBL’s developmental contract framework, both Anisko and Thomas will gain invaluable professional experience competing against seasoned pros, many of whom play internationally during the traditional winter season. Crucially, these contracts are specifically designed to protect student-athlete eligibility.

For CBU fans and the campus community, this means that while Stef and Tayshaun will be competing in the CEBL through August, they will remain full-time students and return to the CAPERS for the 2026-27 AUS season. This pathway allows student-athletes to pursue professional aspirations while continuing their education and leading the CBU program on the court.

Stefan Anisko – Edmonton Stingers

Stefan Anisko, a 6’5” guard from Caledonia, Ontario, was selected by the Edmonton Stingers. Following a standout third season with the Capers, where after returning from a pre-season injury, Anisko solidified his reputation as one of the country’s premier shooting guards, recording seven 20-point games and a 40-point performance in the regular-season home finale.

Stef’s performance this past season earned him the CBU men’s basketball MVP and an Atlantic University Sport (AUS) Conference First-Team All-Star. Recognition for skills he aims to hone further when he heads to Edmonton.

“I’m thankful for the opportunity. I’m just focused on improving and getting better every day,” said Stefan Anisko.

Tayshaun Thomas – Montréal Alliance

Rookie guard Tayshaun Thomas will head back to his hometown after being selected by the Montréal Alliance. The 6’4” Montreal native made an immediate impact in his first year at CBU, averaging 9 points and 5 rebounds per game while ranking as one of the top defensive players in the conference for steals.

Thomas concludes his debut season as the Capers Men’s Basketball Rookie of the Year and a member of the AUS All-Rookie Team.

“I’m just grateful for the opportunity to play for the Montreal Alliance. Being from Montreal, it really means a lot,” said Tayshaun Thomas.

Coaches Perspective

CBU CAPERS Men’s Basketball Alum and Head Coach Matt Skinn, now in his 11th season at the helm, noted that these selections reflect the upward trajectory of the CBU program.

“The signings of both Stefan and Tayshaun are a testament to their hard work and improvement during their time at CBU. Each of them are incredibly hard-working and high-character individuals who deserve this opportunity,” says CAPERS Head Coach Matt Skinn. “This also shows the positive direction of the Men’s basketball program at CBU, with four players being drafted or signed to the CEBL in the last three seasons. We are excited to see what’s next.”

 

For more information on the upcoming CEBL season, visit CEBL.ca. To keep up with everything CAPERS, visit GoCapersGo.ca.