Rapper Drake was named global ambassador by the Toronto Raptors on Sept. 30.
The 26- year old Drake, whose real name is Aubrey Drake Graham, is a lifelong Raptors fan and wants to make the team cool again. It's hoped that Drake, will not only attract fans but draw also top-level free agents to Toronto,
"Today's probably one of the best days of my life," Drake said by phone from Toronto. "I got to throw on the suit and be announced as the global ambassador of the Toronto Raptors.”
"I can't wait to add everything I can."
Drake said the job evolved after a chat with Tim Lieweke, president and CEO of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, and general manager Masai Ujiri.
"I came into the venue one night and I guess was extremely outspoken about what I felt could change, as far as the building goes," Drake said. "That sparked a discussion and (we) sat down and decided we had the same visions.
"It just turned from a discussion to a reality."
Drake added that his exact duties are undefined but he is open to anything.
It was also announced that the Raptors will host the 2016 NBA All-Star Game on Sept. 30. It will mark the first NBA All-Star Game in Toronto as well as the first held outside the U.S. The 2015-16 season will be the Raptors’ 20th season in the NBA.
The All-Star game will be played on February 14 at Air Canada Centre, home of the Raptors and the National Hockey League's Toronto Maple Leafs.
In other team news, the Raptors announced they plan to re-brand the team with new colors and branding, though they will not change their new name.
