As the 2023/2024 Basketball season heats up, there’s a new bowl in town that’s guaranteed to be a slam dunk. Two top players from the Toronto Raptors' have teamed up for a fun partnership with Subway Canada, and it's bringing the heat to your next order.
Players Scottie Barnes and Chris Boucher — together with Subway's chef John Botelho — have created two bowls inspired by the Caribbean and personal tastes. Scottie Barnes has developed the Jerk-Chicken Bowl: Since the Raptor isn't a fan of cheese, he's topped the bowl off with banana peppers for a spicy kick. Chris Boucher, a steak and cheese fan, has added shredded Canadian Cheddar to his Jerk-Steak Bowl.
Fans of Subway's Signature Rice Bowls can still get the original lineup — packed with fresh veggies, hearty grains and zesty sauces — which launched in October 2022. Choose from Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki, with grilled chicken and sweet onion; Crispy Chicken Bacon & Peppercorn Ranch with maplewood smoked bacon; Green Goddess Veggie featuring the tangy and flavourful dressing; and Southwest Steak & Avocado, featuring seasoned Canadian beef and smashed avocado.
Whether you're waking up your taste buds with a jerk-seasoned rotisserie chicken or bringing the heat with steak and fiery peppers, these sweet and spicy rice bowls bring the flavour and flair of the Caribbean to lunch or dinner.
We chatted with Scottie Barnes to learn more about his partnership with Subway Canada and what tickles his taste buds.
Why did you partner with Subway?
"The food I eat plays a massive role in maintaining my competitive edge, and Subway has always been a go-to for anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal."
What’s your earliest Subway memory?
"As an athlete, Subway was usually my go-to option. Whether post-practice or pre-game, I could count on my favourite Subway sub to feed my ferocious appetite."
What’s your go-to Subway sandwich?
"I usually go for anything with plenty of protein, like the Subway Series Stampede Brisket, to help fuel my intense schedule during the basketball season."
How does the Jerk Chicken Bowl reflect part of your background/culinary preferences/tastes?
"Jerk chicken is one of the most popular dishes in Jamaica, and with my dad being Jamaican, I grew up loving it. I was thrilled when Subway wanted to collaborate on my signature bowl and knew that Jerk Rotisserie Chicken would be perfect."
What do you love most about the Jerk Chicken Bowl?
"I love the delicious jerk flavour! When you think jerk chicken, you think of spices like scotch bonnet peppers and allspice, which really come through in Subway’s Jerk Chicken Bowl."
What’s your favourite thing about Toronto?
"I love Toronto, its diversity and the sense of community it brings. We have some of the league's best fans, and it’s an honour to play for such a passionate fan base."
Try the new Jerk-Spiced Rice Bowls developed by your favourite Raptors players by visiting your local Subway or ordering via the Subway app.