By: Jason Margolis
BURNABY, B.C. – On October 6, 2023, Simon Fraser University's West Gym buzzed with anticipation as over 1,800 basketball fans gathered to catch the NBA's Toronto Raptors in action.
The capacity crowd was excited for the unique opportunity to watch Canada's only NBA team play live and in-person. This was the first time that the Raptors have held their annual Open Practice at SFU and on the home court of the Red Leafs, Canada's sole NCAA basketball team.
The practice began with a greeting from first-year coach Darko Rajakovic, setting the stage for a series of warm-up and shooting drills. The players then divided into two teams and 5-on-5 play, was underway.
The audience was eager to see Raptors star players Pascal Siakam and Scottie Barnes, the 2022 NBA Rookie of the Year, and check out promising rookie Gradey Dick. Forward Barnes dominated throughout with his combination of speed, strength, and skill, which lead to numerous dunks and finishes at the rim.
Gallery: (10-6-2023) Toronto Raptors Open Practice - Oct. 6
Additional entertainment was provided by The Raptor mascot and the Raptors cheerleaders, who were later joined by players and coaches to toss out t-shirts and give high-fives to the crowd.
SFU Athletics was appreciative of the Toronto Raptors and the SFU community who helped make the Open Practice event a huge success.
"I thought it was fitting that Canadian representatives of both the NCAA and NBA came together to create an amazing event for our community," recalled Jordan Thorsen, the President of SFU's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. "I know for many it was surreal experience to watch the league's best play on home soil, so I'm sure it will be a lasting memory for those who were lucky enough to attend."
With a record-breaking attendance, the event generated an impressive $25,000 for endowments dedicated to supporting SFU's student-athletes.
"It was wonderful to have the opportunity to be part of an event that hopefully inspired the next generation of both SFU and NBA athletes," added Thorsen. "It's hard to put into words how grateful we are to have been given the chance to host the Raptors at West Gym."
For the latest information on SFU Athletics, visit
athletics.sfu.ca. You can also find us on social media at @SFU_Athletics.
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