VANCOUVER — Boston Celtics forward Kelly Olynyk was named an ambassador for the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds on Monday as the school hosts the Canadian university men’s basketball championship.
Olynyk, from Kamloops, B.C., will work with the school as UBC hosts the eight-team tournament from March 17 to 20 in Vancouver.
"I’m excited to be an ambassador for the CIS Men’s Final 8 Championship to be held this year at UBC," said Olynyk in a statement. "As someone who grew up playing basketball in this province, I know how great this is for the game in the region. This tournament will showcase some of the country’s top players and teams for BC and the whole country."
Olynyk was a high school phenomenon in his hometown of Kamloops, before going on to play for the Gonzaga Bulldogs in the NCAA. Kelly was drafted by Celtics in 2013 and is averaging 10.1 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game for Boston this season.
"We are thrilled that Kelly Olynyk will be an ambassador for the CIS Men’s Championships," said Thunderbirds head coach Kevin Hanson. "I’ve known Kelly and his family for a long time. Kelly epitomizes the type of Canadian and successful person, on and off the court, that is a great role model for the basketball community."
