Hello and welcome to another installment of Hello Neighbour.

Downtown is full of so many different businesses, some you may be familiar with and some you may just be discovering.  Today we are sharing one of our many neighbours with you, please say hi to Ssswish.

Hi, Saskatoon my name is Ssswish. I am the mascot for the Saskatchewan Rattlers, Saskatchewan’s only professional basketball team. We won the first-ever CEBL Championship in 2019 on homecourt and are starting our fourth season in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL).  We have the highest percentage of Canadian players of any professional league, bringing experience from the NBA, NBA G League, top international leagues, Team Canada, NCAA, and USPORTS. Our season starts on May 25th, 2022 with 10 home games live at SaskTel Centre.

I don’t know if you know, but my actual home is located on the corner of 21st Street + 2nd Avenue. Stationed right in the heart of Downtown Saskatoon surrounded by community-minded individuals. This has brought me lots of opportunities to get to know my neighbours, showcase the merch and create quality interactions with Downtown patrons.

Basketball has been the fastest growing sport in Canada + we are proud to be a part of that growth. We have developed community-focused programming such as Youth Clinics and will continue to be driven by our community.  We intend to keep providing an elevated fan experience that showcases not only the best players on the court but also top-notch entertainment. Like many others Downtown, we want to contribute in growing one of the fasting growing cities in Canada right alongside our country’s basketball culture.

When I am not at SaskTel Centre cheering on the team, visiting the Front Office, or within the community – You can catch me downtown visiting friends. If you see me, don’t be afraid to say hi! Even though I’m a snake, I’m Sssssstill very friendly! I can also at times be found Ssslithering around the Meewasin Valley Trail.

Although I represent Saskatchewan, Saskatoon is where homecourt is and truly special to me. I have shared so many fond memories and experienced so many great interactions here. One that will always stand out is hosting the Raptors NBA Championship viewing party at JuraSask Park.

I truly hope to see you all out this summer Downtown or in the Snake Pit cheering on the team.

Sincerely, Your Friendly Neighbourhood Snake

– Ssswish