2026-27 MANITOBA BISONS/USPORTS

[Hollywood2]

July 24, 2026: BISONS HAVE A HAT-TRICK OF STORIES

Three recruits previously announced on Elite Prospects and the LOI registry now have press release stories and flashy new pictures. All three are accustomed to skating around with a trophy. I have prior posts on all (from July 1st & 8th) which contain links and background material, which I will not repeat here.


LIAM LONGO - D - Toronto Patriots (OJHL)

Here's the website caption:

A two-way defenceman, Longo contributed 20 points in 45 OJHL games. He was even more dynamic in the playoffs, helping the Patriots to a conference title and berth at nationals for the first time in 12 years with ten points in 20 games.

Links:
➤ GoBisons.ca: Buckland Cup Champ Liam Longo commits to Manitoba


COLE UNGER - D - Melfort Mustangs (SJHL)

Unlike the others listed today, Unger won his SJHL titles in 2024 and 2025. Here's his caption:

Over three seasons with Melfort, Unger advanced to the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) national championship twice, competing for the Centennial Cup in both 2024 and 2025 following league titles in the SJHL. During two runs to the final of the CJHL’s most prestigious tournament, Unger recorded three points over ten total games.

Links:
➤ GoBisons: Two-time SJHL champion Cole Unger chooses Manitoba


NOAH LODOEN - F - Toronto Patriots (OJHL)

Lodoen's caption is brief:

Lodoen is the second member of the Toronto Patriots to sign with Manitoba, alongside defenceman Liam Longo

Links:
➤ GoBisons.ca: A Toronto reunion: Buckland Cup champion Noah Lodoen joins Manitoba's loaded recruiting class

After issuing a story announcing the end of a 13-man recruiting class, the Banjo-Cats have one more kitten in the litter. Here's the details, in the form of the above omnibus post of CW recruits to date:

Braydan Smith - D - Blackfalds Bulldogs (BCHL) [prior: Nanaimo, Victoria, & Trail (BCHL), Des Moines (USHL)]
Link: Braydan Smith - Stats, Contract, Salary & More
BCHL: 110 GP, 3 G, 13 A, 16 Pts
USHL: 47 GP, 1 G, 4 A, 5 Pts

Links:
➤ CougarsAndRams.com: Cougars add defenceman Braydan Smith