Congratulations to Daren Watts on signing with the Metz Canonniers in Metz, France, where he will continue his professional basketball career in one of Europe's most competitive developmental leagues.
Daren joins the Canonniers of Nationale Masculine 1 (NM1), France's third-highest division. NM1 is widely recognized as one of Europe's premier development leagues, featuring experienced professionals, former top-division players, and talented young athletes working toward opportunities at France's highest professional levels.
This exciting opportunity follows Daren’s first professional experience with the Winnipeg Sea Bears, where he earned the chance to train and compete through the Canadian Elite Basketball League’s pathway for outstanding U SPORTS athletes. His signing with Metz marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as he embarks on his first full professional season overseas.
During his outstanding career with the Herd, Daren established himself as one of the program’s premier guards. He surpassed 1,000 career points, earned Canada West Second Team All-Star honours, and capped off his final season by averaging 17.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game.
Known for his scoring ability, perimeter shooting, athleticism, and relentless work ethic, Daren has earned this opportunity through years of dedication and perseverance. His commitment to improving his game and competing at a high level has prepared him well for the challenges ahead in professional basketball.
France has long been an excellent destination for Canadian players beginning their international careers, and a strong season with Metz could open the door to even greater opportunities within European basketball.
Daren joins two other Manitoba Bisons men’s basketball alumni with professional opportunities overseas for the upcoming 2026-27 season. Both Mason Kraus and Simon Hildebrandt have recently signed with professional teams in Germany following their collegiate careers.
Simon spent his first two seasons with the Manitoba Bisons before continuing his development at the NCAA Division I level, where he competed for two U.S. programs. His journey, along with those of Daren and Mason, highlights the diverse pathways available to Bisons student-athletes pursuing professional basketball careers.
The success of Daren Watts, Mason Kraus, and Simon Hildebrandt is a testament to the outstanding work of Head Coach Kirby Schepp and his staff in preparing student-athletes to compete at the next level. We look forward to following all three as they represent the Bisons with pride on the international stage.
On behalf of the Herd Hoops Club, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Daren on this outstanding accomplishment. We wish him every success as he begins this exciting chapter in France and look forward to following his professional career.
Congratulations, Daren, and best of luck with the Metz Canonniers!