TORONTO — The Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Bold women's basketball team is pleased to announce the first recruit of their 2025-26 class, point guard Ella McDonald. Coming from Quispamsis, N.B., McDonald brings a high basketball IQ and a proven ability to perform under pressure. 

"We are thrilled to add Ella to our program," said Bold head coach Carly Clarke. "A dynamic guard with shot creation and shot-making ability, she fits perfectly into our style of play. We can't wait to have Ella on campus, and to have her impact on the program on and off the court over her time at TMU."

McDonald brings a wealth of experience from her time playing in the Maritimes. She spent her senior season at Rothesay High School. Her team qualified for the Riverboat Classic, a tournament that showcases the top high school basketball teams from across Eastern Canada. McDonald earned the honour of 2025 MVP for the tournament, solidifying herself as a standout player. Throughout her career, she has won four New Brunswick Provincial banners. She was also chosen to attend the Canada Basketball camp in Memphis, TN, showcasing her skills on the national stage.

McDonald will join TMU knowing a familiar face on the roster. While playing for Surge Basketball, she competed against Jessica Keripe, who suited up for Rothesay Netherwood. 

Excited for both her academic and athletic pursuits at TMU, McDonald is looking forward to studying Early Childhood Studies and joining a basketball program she believes will be a good fit.

"I like the competitive environment of the basketball team and know that the program and coaching staff will further develop my skills at the next level. I like the team's culture of hard work and dedication to their teammates which I feel I will fit in greatly with," said McDonald. "TMU offers the program that I would like to study and the support as a student-athlete that I will need."