Raptors to host 2016 all-star game, Drake named team ambassador
Posted September 30, 2013 12:49 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
TORONTO – The NBA has confirmed that Toronto will host the 2016 all-star game — the first time it will be played outside the United States.
NBA deputy commissioner Adam Silver made the announcement Monday at a news conference.
“We promise to you the best all-star game and the best all-star week you’ve ever had and like all of us, you’re going to fall in love with the great city of Toronto,” said Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment President and CEO Tim Leiweke.
Mayor Rob Ford was among those at the news conference.
“This is absolutely fantastic news, fantastic news for the city of Toronto,” he said.
Toronto rapper Drake — a huge basketball fan who is often seen courtside at Raptors home games — was introduced as the Raptors’ new “global ambassador.”
“I preach the gospel that is Toronto,” he said. “I love this city with all my heart. I just want to let you know that I am extremely excited to finally be a part of a team that I grew up as a fan of.”
Leiweke says Drake’s position is a real thing.
“We gave him a permanent office with a staff. We’ll see him back here at the Air Canada Centre sometime later this year,” he said.
Drake says his main responsibility will be to promote the Raptors worldwide and cheer them on at home games.
“As a season-ticket holder, I do actually have a pair of seats now so I’ll be here as much as possible,” he said.
But since he is friends with some high-profile NBA players, could he lure top talent to Toronto?
“I would love nothing more than to bring a championship to Toronto, that would be a dream so if I can be a part of it, then yes, I will do everything in my power to do that,” he said.
Drake will also help re-brand the Raptors over the next two years with new colours and uniforms.
The 2014 all-star game will be held in New Orleans while New York will host the 2015 contest.
Toronto last hosted an all-star game in 2006 when the National Lacrosse League held its showcase here.
The NHL staged its all-star game in Toronto in 2000 while the Toronto Blue Jays hosted baseball’s marquee contest in 1991.
— With files from The Canadian Press
