JaKeenan Gant joins Saskatchewan Rattlers

JaKeenan Gant (201 cm, PF) has finalized a deal to play for the Canadian Elite Basketball League’s Saskatchewan Rattlers.

Gant competed at the University of Missouri (2014-16) and University of Louisiana at Lafayette (2017-19) before launching his pro career. He was a two-time Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Year. He averaged 2-plus blocks per game in both of his seasons at ULL.

In his first pro season, JaKeenan Gant played for the NBA G League’s Fort Wayne Mad Ants (Indiana Pacers’ affiliate) in 2019-20. He averaged 7.9 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in 29 games. He also suited up for the Mad Ants three games the next season.

The 24-year-old Gant suited up for the Korean Basketball League’s Ulsan Mobus Phoebus in 2020-21, appearing in 25 games. He averaged 9.4 points and 4.0 rebounds.

“We are thrilled to welcome JaKeenan to the roster ahead of the 2021 season,” Rattlers general manager Barry Rawlyk said. “He is a big addition to the core that has already been assembled. JaKeenan is a true two-way threat in the way that he plays. He is an adept rim-protector and also excels with the ball in his hands. We are excited to see JaKeenan continue to hone his skills on the court with the Rattlers.”

The seven-team CEBL tips off its third season on June 25.