From Tryouts to Tip-Off: Nathan Charles’ Full-Circle Moment

For Nathan Charles, January 4 wasn’t just another game, it was proof that his persistence pays off.

The Mississauga native paid his own way to attend the KW Titans’ open tryouts earlier this season. Though he wasn’t initially selected, Charles stayed connected, earned an invite to training camp, and secured a role as a taxi player, remaining ready while supporting the active roster.

That readiness paid off when roster absences opened the door for his professional debut and first career start against the Montreal Toundra. Despite early nerves, Charles quickly found his rhythm, finishing with 8 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 assists in 29 minutes, helping the Titans earn a 102–90 victory.

“It meant a whole lot,” Charles said. “There was a sense of relief, like my hard work paid off and now it’s time to take it to the next level.”

One of just two Canadian players on the roster, Charles takes pride in representing Ontario so close to home. “I’m literally 15 minutes away from my house,” he shared. That familiarity showed on the court, where his effort-first approach and rebounding earned the trust of the coaching staff.

Off the court, Charles enjoys reading (Think and Grow Rich), gaming with teammates, and grounding himself with a pre-game prayer. As the Titans build momentum this season, he remains focused on growth, preparation, and doing whatever it takes to help the team win.

It meant a whole lot and there was a sense of relief, like my hard work paid off and now it’s time to take it to the next level.

NATHAN CHARLES

“I just want to thank everyone in the organization who helped me get here,” Charles said. “I’ll continue working”