Former Manitoba Bisons standout Daren Watts has officially signed his first full overseas professional contract, joining the Metz Canonniers in Metz, France, for the 2026–27 season.
Watts will compete in Nationale Masculine 1 (NM1), France's third-highest professional division. Widely regarded as one of Europe's strongest developmental leagues, NM1 features a blend of experienced professionals, former top-division players, and emerging talent striving to reach France's highest levels of professional basketball.
The signing represents the next step in Watts' basketball journey following his first professional experience with the Winnipeg Sea Bears, where he earned an opportunity to train and compete through the Canadian Elite Basketball League's pathway for outstanding U SPORTS student-athletes. His move to France marks the beginning of his first full professional season overseas.
During an outstanding collegiate career with the University of Manitoba Bisons, Watts established himself as one of the program's premier guards. He surpassed the 1,000-point milestone, earned Canada West Second Team All-Star honours, and concluded his university career with an exceptional senior season, averaging 17.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game.
Known for his dynamic scoring ability, perimeter shooting, athleticism, and relentless work ethic, Watts has earned this opportunity through years of dedication and continuous development. His commitment to improving every aspect of his game has positioned him well for the challenges and opportunities that await him in European professional basketball.
France has long served as an excellent launching point for Canadian players beginning their international careers, and a successful season with Metz could create opportunities to advance within the country's highly respected professional basketball system and beyond.
Watts also becomes one of three Manitoba Bisons men's basketball alumni set to compete professionally overseas during the upcoming 2026–27 season. Fellow Bisons graduates Mason Kraus and Simon Hildebrandt have both recently signed professional contracts in Germany.