CALGARY SURGE SIGN VERSATILE GUARD EVAN GILYARD II
JULY 2 - The Calgary Surge are excited to announce the signing of guard Evan Gilyard II.
Gilyard II, a 5’10”, 170-pound guard from Chicago, Illinois, brings speed, playmaking and scoring punch to Calgary’s backcourt. Known for his quickness and high basketball IQ, he can push the pace in transition and create shots for himself and teammates.
After going undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft, Gilyard II turned pro and has built a well-traveled resume. Most recently he played in the NBA G League with the Raptors 905 (Toronto’s affiliate), where in 2024–25 he averaged 12.3 points and 5.1 assists per game. In a March 2025 game for Raptors 905 he erupted for a career-high 34 points in a win over the Windy City Bulls. Gilyard II has also appeared for the Windy City Bulls (the Chicago Bulls’ affiliate) and overseas, signing with CEZ Nymburk of the Czech NBL and the Zonkeys de Tijuana in the Liga Mexicana de Básquetbol CHEVRON CIBACOPA.
Gilyard II enjoyed a standout college career across Conference USA and the Summit League. He played two seasons at UTEP and one at New Mexico State before finishing at the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) in the NCAA. In 2021–22 at Kansas City, he averaged 16.7 points and 3.3 assists per game, earning Summit League Newcomer of the Year and first-team
all-conference honours.
“Evan brings playmaking, energy and toughness to our backcourt,” said Surge General Manager Shane James. “He’s a true floor general – a quick point guard who can pressure opposing ball handlers, push the tempo, and hit big shots. Evan fills a key role for us, and we believe his all-around game will elevate our team as we pursue a championship.”
“It’s a welcome opportunity any time you can join a winning organization and help make a contribution,” said Gilyard II. “I’m ready to bring my energy and playmaking on both ends of the floor to the Surge organization – scoring, setting up teammates, and locking up on defense.”
Gilyard II becomes the latest addition to a growing list of high-level collegiate and pro talent joining the Surge for 2025 as the team, currently 8-4, prepares for another deep CEBL run.
Tickets for the Calgary Surge’s ‘TRILOGY’ season are now available at calgarysurge.ca. This season includes regular season games at WinSport Event Centre and marquee events at the Westerner Park Centrium in Red Deer (June 19) and the Scotiabank Saddledome (July 9 & August 10).
About the Calgary Surge
The Calgary Surge tipped off their inaugural season at WinSport Event Centre in May 2023, after originating as the Guelph Nighthawks, one of the founding members of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). From day one, the Surge have been committed to being the Home Team for Calgary and a space where everyone is welcome.
The Calgary Surge are active members of the community and have participated in a few hundred events (and counting) around the city that connect the team with diverse communities through sport, entertainment, and arts and culture. Over two seasons, the Surge have made back-to-back CEBL Championship Weekend appearances, were crowned Western Conference Champions in 2023, hold the league’s single-game attendance record, and have sent over 4000 deserving kids and families to their games for free. Fans can expect even more excitement for 2025! For more information, visit www.calgarysurge.ca.
About the Canadian Elite Basketball League
A league created by Canadians for Canadians with a mission to develop Canadian players, coaches, sports executives, and referees, the CEBL boasts the highest percentage of Canadian players of any pro league in the country with 75% of its rosters being Canadian and a record 12 players with NBA experience in 2024. Players also bring experience from the NBA G League, top international pro leagues, the Canadian National team program, NCAA programs, as well as U SPORTS and CCAA. More than 20 players have signed NBA contracts following a CEBL season, and numerous CEBL players attend NBA G League training camps every year. The CEBL season runs from May through August with games broadcast live on CEBL+, TSN, TSN+, RDS, Game+, Next Level Sports & Entertainment and Courtside1891. More information about the CEBL is available at CEBL.ca and @cebleague on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook & YouTube.
Media Contact:
Karina Castellanos Feijoó
Manager, Events & Administration
Calgary Surge
647-916-3594;
[email protected]