Jalen Shirely is the all-time UBCO Heat points and assists leader. (Image Credit: Vancouver Bandits Professional Basketball Club)

By Vernon Matters staff

Moving up

UBCO Heat star player heads to Vancouver Bandits

Apr 30, 2026 | 6:00 PM

It’s a big step up for young UBCO Heat basketball player Jalen Shirley.

The Kelowna-based Shirely has been signed to a contract by the Vancouver Bandits.

The club said his development with the Heat is a testament to the rapid growth of youth basketball in B.C., even away from the Lower Mainland.

Shirely is the UBCO Heat’s all-time points (1,707) and assists (379) leader.

He competed at the Bandits University Combine (BUC), and impressed the coaching staff.

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The Bandits said his success matters to his adopted community of Kelowna and UBCO, as well as basketball fans all over B.C.

by Vernon Matters staff

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Moving up

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