Kelowna HOOPFEST goes in June. (Image Credit: Vancouver Bandits)

By Vernon Matters staff

Elite team chooses Kelowna

Pro basketball coming to Kelowna

Feb 3, 2026 | 4:34 PM

It’s another sporting first for Kelowna.

The Central Okanagan City will host the Vancouver Bandits’ first ever neutral-site home game in the Canadian Elite Basketball League.

They’ll play the Saskatchewan Pro Club, in the highlight matchup of Kelowna HOOPFEST.

The multi-day festival will also feature a youth 5×5 tournament, a coaching clinic, and additional programming to be announced.

The Vancouver Bandits and the City announced the game Tuesday. It’ll happen Saturday, June 6 at Prospera Place.

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“Fans can expect fast-paced, high-energy basketball paired with an electric game-day atmosphere, and a fan-first experience that will bring communities together inside and outside the arena,” Vancouver Bandits team president Dylan Kular, said, in part. ” Bringing our first neutral-site home game to Kelowna as part of Kelowna HOOPFEST is about growing the game and connecting with new communities.”

Kelowna HOOPFEST reflects the City of Kelowna’s continued investment in hosting major sporting events that strengthen connection, inspire youth participation, and drive economic impact.

“Kelowna is excited to host the Vancouver Bandits and Saskatchewan Professional Basketball Club at Prospera Place,” said Mayor Tom Dyas. “Kelowna continues to build its reputation as a premier event-hosting city, and we are proud to welcome the Canadian Elite Basketball League to our community. The first-ever Kelowna Hoopfest and surrounding events will bring people to our city, support local businesses, and provide a boost to our local economy.”

Tickets for Vancouver Bandits vs. Saskatchewan Professional Basketball Club at Kelowna HOOPFEST are on sale now. Additional details surrounding Kelowna HOOPFEST programming will be announced in the coming weeks. More information and tickets are available at thebandits.ca.