A hometown philanthropist has donated $3 million toward the development of a new basketball attraction in St. Stephen. Bruce Buchanan provided the funds to support the Basketball Experience Centre, which is planned for construction next to a 19th-century court believed to be one of the oldest surviving basketball courts in the world.

How will the project be funded?

The total expected cost for the center is estimated between $18 million and $19 million. The financing strategy for the project involves three primary sources:

  • $6 million from the federal government
  • $6 million from the provincial government
  • $7 million from private donations

According to project board member David Ganong, Buchanan’s contribution helps fill a major gap and means the private fundraising campaign has reached its goal. The donation is expected to accelerate the completion of the project and strengthen the organization's position when seeking further government support.

What is the Basketball Experience Centre?

The facility is intended to be a three-storey building designed by CambridgeSeven. It will feature exhibits regarding the history of the sport and will house at least one-third of the Canadian Basketball Hall of Fame. The site is located on King Street next to a building dating back to 1893, which formerly served as a YMCA.

A history of community support

The project has already received significant attention within the Canadian basketball community. In 2026, the town hosted the Canadian Basketball Hall of Fame induction ceremony, which highlighted the potential for the court to become a nationally significant destination. Organizers expect the ceremony to return to Charlotte County in 2028.

Buchanan, a former resident who owned a forest products company, said he wanted to give back to his community. He noted that the site represents a unique location in sports history. His contribution follows other recent pledges, including $250,000 each from Bob Quartermain and former New Brunswick premier Frank McKenna.

FAQ

Where is the new center located?

The center will be built in St. Stephen, adjacent to the historic basketball court on King Street.

Who is Bruce Buchanan?

He is a philanthropist and former St. Stephen resident who previously owned a successful forest products company.