NLL Expected to Lose Another Franchise
Ottawa folding
Toronto Rock at Ottawa Black Bears 04.10.26
Photo: Greg Mason / NLL
Unfortunately, there is no good news to report for Ottawa lacrosse fans. The Ottawa Black Bears are shutting down, according to sources, ending the National Lacrosse League franchise’s brief run in Canada’s capital.
The move appeared increasingly inevitable. Ownership group GF Sports struggled to establish the franchise on Long Island when it competed as the New York Riptide. After relocating the team to Ottawa and rebranding it as the Black Bears, the organization reportedly hoped the Ottawa Senators would eventually become involved. That partnership never materialized.
Sources say one of the biggest obstacles facing potential new owners was the debt accumulated under GF Sports, including unpaid player fees.
The Black Bears’ departure will send several standout players into the NLL Dispersal Draft. The available talent includes superstar forward Jeff Teat, fearless defenseman Callum Jones and proven goaltender Zach Higgins. Their arrival could significantly reshape the NLL championship race, depending on where they land.
The league must now address another major concern: the future of the historic Philadelphia Wings franchise.
For continuing Ottawa Black Bears news, NLL updates and expert lacrosse analysis, watch Daily Dive—the only live daily lacrosse talk show. Daily Dive returns Monday, Nov. 2. Subscribe to North American Talk Radio on YouTube so you do not miss the latest National Lacrosse League coverage.
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