Rapper Drake has been brought on as the global ambassador for the Toronto Raptors, whose hometown will play host to the 2016 All-Star game, the first NBA game to be held outside of the US.
As a CBC News article pointed out, the organization is hopeful that the star-status of Drake, who was born in Toronto and has always been a huge fan of the team, will not only heighten the popularity of the organization but will also draw top-level free agents to Toronto, something the team has struggled to do in the past. The Raptors haven’t made it to the playoffs in the last five years.
“I want excitement for this team. I want them to be one of the biggest teams in this league,” said Drake (CBC). “Everywhere I go I preach the gospel that is the city of Toronto, I love this city with all my heart.”
Bringing Drake on board is part of an overall strategy to rebrand the team, who will be getting new colours and uniforms.
“This is remarkable for our basketball team,” said general manager Masai Ujiri. “We have a responsibility to grow our basketball team so it meets the momentum of the all-star game. This is awesome for the fans and awesome for the city.”
Photo: WENN
