Syla Swords and Yvonne Ejim on college basketball, WNBA and Canada basketball

[00:00:02] Speaker A: Welcome to the Canadian Basketball show, your go to spot for the latest news, stories and analysis on Canadian basketball. I'm your host Lee Ben Osman. A lot of stuff happening within the basketball world here in Canada. FIBA U19 World cup is set to start real soon for both the men's and the women's team. The NBA draft is right around the corner. I'll actually be in New York next week covering top name prospect Will Riley and and potentially Ryan Nemhard, who's been gaining a lot of buzz and might end up a second round pick in this year's draft. I'm planning on doing a podcast on the draft, just maybe on where the Raptors might pick, who they might pick. Insight on will Ryan Speak to some people that cover the draft, get their expertise just a few days out. I didn't even mention the NBA Finals going on and we got four Canadians doing big things on the stage. I feel like as a Canadian, I'm living through them. Getting to watch Ben Matheran, Andrew Nemhar, Lou Dort and the MVP Shea Gilgeous Alexander. Man, it's, it's been a fun, fun journey watching these playoffs. I feel like every game has been really good. Historic season for say, if you can win the championship. The last time someone won MVP and a title in the same season was Steph Curry back in 2014, 2015. And I think Shai, it's not close now. He's undisputed, the greatest king basketball player of all time. I'm not hearing the Steve Nash talks no more. That conversation was a few years back for me. But shout out to Steve, though. He paved the way. If you speak with any Canadian coming up, they might credit him, honestly as the catalyst for this wave of talent coming up in Canada. So shout out to Steve. But to tee up what I'm calling the summer of Canadian basketball, I have two guests joining me on this episode straight at a FIBA Amer cup camp. Silas Swords from Michigan and Yvonne Ejam, who was just drafted by the Indiana Fevers and just signed her first pro contract in Spain. I got them both on the podcast. They were both in camp this past week preparing for the FIBA America Cup. Sila won't be playing though. She's going to be playing FIBA U19 and that roster is expected to be stacked. I'm really excited about that. She's also playing Global Jam, which is going to be happening from August 13th to the 17th. You can go get your tickets now on Global Jam. Ca A lot of great talent. This is where I got to watch like guys like Leonard Miller play. Ryan Nevhart also played in this a few years back. Aaliyah Edwards killing it now with the Washington Mystics. A lot of young talent I definitely recommend and it's happening in my backyard, downtown Toronto, right? Or good hoops. Still happens. Still happens. But like I said, both Sila and Ivan were both in camp with the women's team before they head to Brazil for some exhibition games. And then the tournament which is set to start on June 28th in Chile. Santiago, Chile. I wish I can go out there, get away from this Toronto weather. But the last time Canada was in the FIBA America cup, they got bronze in 2023. And the winner of this tournament gets an automatic bid to the 2026 World cup in Germany next summer. I actually got the chance to chat with new head coach of the women's team, Nell Fortner for a bit. I'm really excited to see what she does with this team with this program. A different style of play I'm expecting from this Canadian basketball team than we're used to. Just chatting with her, she was telling me she's still getting familiar with the players, but she's excited, especially with the talent coming up, takes it as an honor to coach a national team. Coaching against the best players, coaching with the best players in the world. And she wants this team to be a fast paced, different style. I feel like Canada wasn't really like that in the past, but that's what she wants her calling card to be. And we'll see. We'll get the first glimpses of this new look. Women's national team at the FIBA America Cup. I asked Nell, how would you describe yourself as a coach? She said energy, type of coach. She wants to make her players feel empowered, but also give them the freedom to play their games, make their own decision, make their own reads. So I think it'll be really good, this female cup to see the next steps for this program. A lot of the young talent won't be playing. They're going to be playing. Like I said, U19 silo swords, we talked about that in depth. And her excitement chasing a gold medal this summer. Young talent coming up is very, very good. So a lot of coverage coming up, like I said. And I'm excited to give you around the clock coverage, man, just on all of that, all of that. Like I said, FIBA U19 will cover both the men's and the women's. I'll have a coach also coming on soon. NBA draft. Like I said, I'll might Be at summer league. We'll see. Maybe do some podcasts with some Canadian players that are out there. A lot of stuff, a lot of stuff in the pipeline. I'm excited to what we've done already on this podcast and what we're can continue to do and this guest that we're going to have. But if you haven't already, go tap in with us on ig. On Twitter. On ig we're at the Canadian Basketball Show. On Twitter we're at the CBS pod. But I don't want to take too much, just happen away. We got a good guess. Salah Swords, Yvonne Ejam talking to me about their journeys. Playing at Michigan, playing at Gonzaga and Yvonne getting drafted. What was that like with Indiana Fever and Sila, one of the Canada's rising basketball stars. We'll take a quick break and get you those interviews with Sila and Yvonne back to back. Enjoy. Welcome back to the Canadian Basketball Show. I'm joined by a very special guest, one of Canada's rising basketball stars, someone that took college basketball by storm this past year. The youngest person to ever represent Canada at Olympic Games. Sudbury and Michigan basketball's very own Sila Swords. Sila, how are you doing? [00:06:57] Speaker B: I'm good. Thank you for having me. [00:06:58] Speaker A: Appreciate you. Thanks for dropping by. How's the off season been? [00:07:02] Speaker B: It's been good. I've been thinking back, I don't remember the last time I've had this long of a break where I don't have anywhere I need to be, any type of schedule I need to follow but really just been in sub replaying basketball. [00:07:13] Speaker A: Nice. Tell me, college season ended in March. What's the last few months been like look like for you? [00:07:19] Speaker B: I mean it's been very heavily school focused. It's hard coming off the way we ended and still having to go to class, having to write exams, knowing you don't have the everyday practice like we used to to look forward to. But very school heavy and then a lot of self improvement on and off the court. You know, working on my mental game and then developing what I need to develop to come back better next year. [00:07:39] Speaker A: Dope. I want to ask you about stuff you've been working on later on but I know you were at Kelsey Plum's dog academy. I thought that was super cool. How did that opportunity come about and what was that experience like? [00:07:49] Speaker B: Yeah, that was a great experience. I just got it through my agency. They said I got an invite and of course I'm going to go. I love putting myself in those situations. To be tested and to grow and to learn from people who are where I want to be in the future. And that was just. It was a lot of quick, shifty guards. I was the tallest person in the gym in the practices. And I felt a little uncomfortable at the start because I was being put on my heels. People we're dancing and I don't have that ability with the ball yet like these smaller guards do. But just to be able to push myself and test myself to see a different level of the game, something I've really been trying to work on and, you know, being uncomfortable again, it's really important to be able to grow, to recognize, like, you know, be humbled a little bit every now and then. So it was a really great experience. [00:08:29] Speaker A: Yeah, because I'm just thinking about the last 12 months or like 15 months from. I remember watching a Hoop Summit. They're McDonald's All American Olympics we talked about. And then killing it, college basketball. And then now we're back here again in Toronto for camp this summer. Tell me, you're going to be playing FIBA Unite Team in July. Yes. What's the preparation look like for that and what's your level of excitement? [00:08:53] Speaker B: Yeah, I mean, it doesn't look any different from last summer going into the Olympics, whether I'm playing for a junior team, whether I'm playing for a senior team. I take that privilege at a very high level, wearing the Canadian jersey and representing the Maple Leaf. So going into camp, the best I am mentally the best I am physically and understanding that we're trying to win a gold medal with this team. We're trying to do things that haven't been done before in Canada basketball with this team and just, you know, being appreciative for every time we're on the court together. [00:09:20] Speaker A: I'm calling it now. You're probably going to go down as the most games played for Canada. I think you're now like 26 international games. I was looking at like 12 with the senior team. What's it about you kind of talked about? And I remember you telling me back at hoops summit whenever Canada calls, like, that's why you chose Michigan, just of like, how lenient and supportive they were in terms of suiting up for Canada. What is it about just suing up for Canada that makes you so eager and makes you want to suit up this many times? [00:09:50] Speaker B: I think it was a passion that was really instilled in me at a young age. My dad played on the 2000 Olympic team and his Olympic jersey hung above the gym that I trained in every day. So I saw that. I'd hear his stories. And he still gets emotional to this day thinking about what it means to him to play for. For Canada. Even now, coaching for Canada. And that was something he instilled in me and my sister and understanding that we're one of 12 every time we make a roster and we're what's best for Canada in that moment, whether it's defensively, offensively, we're there for a reason. And not everyone gets to do that. And I just have so much pride in recognizing that, you know, the work I put in pays off and allows me to be in these situations. And not everyone can say that they're an Olympian at 18 years old or that they've represented the national team as many times, played 26 international games already. [00:10:35] Speaker A: Yeah. Is the jersey hanging up now yours? [00:10:38] Speaker B: Not yet. I didn't go to university there, so that was the rule. But maybe I can talk to the athletes or something, but get a little exception going. [00:10:47] Speaker A: Deserves to be hung up. I want to ask you about new head coach for the senior women's national team, Nell Fortner. It was announced in April, I believe. What was your reaction when you heard the news and did you know her at all? [00:10:58] Speaker B: I had heard of her just from being around college basketball a little bit. She coached another Canadian teammate, Jada Bediaco, who was at Georgia Tech and now Marquette. So have heard of her a little bit. But I know that the hiring process was very long. And just seeing her resume and everything she's been able to do, you know, coaching Olympic team, being so successful, going to the WNBA to coach and being successful in the college level. She just filled out and checked everything on the resume we were looking for to be able to put Canada in a position where we're consistently meddling at the Olympics where we're getting gold medals. That was the first thing she walked in and said at our meeting, is we're getting a gold medal, period. Anything less of that, it's not what we're looking for. And just her passion for winning and her intensity towards winning. I think it's going to be really exciting for our program. Exciting for us to step into every day knowing that our coach is somebody dedicated to the same goals that we have for ourselves. [00:11:51] Speaker A: Talking about her resume. Ouburn, Georgia Tech. Retired. Spent time with USA Basketball. The most winningest coach in USA Basketball history, which is kind of crazy. Spent time in the WNBA with Indiana Fever. What's it been like getting to know her? I know Camp just started, but I'm guessing she's been reaching out to you, getting to know you a bit. What's that relationship been like so far? [00:12:11] Speaker B: I mean, winning is coach in USA basketball history. Just looking at that and understanding that she chose our program and now she's wearing the maple leaf. Just shows a tremendous respect for our country. And of course, we're gonna welcome her with open arms and the belief that she has in us, we're gonna instill that in her, too. Just, she's had a really positive vibe at practice. But also, you know, there's an intensity of we're here to make something happen. And this is an Americup summer, but we're here to win a gold medal through that. And everything we do, everything she's put in the practice is with intention, but at the same time, you know, there's fun and we're smiling in practice. So she's made it so that it's really great balance so far. [00:12:49] Speaker A: I'm excited to see what she could do with this program, especially with you at the helm. Talk to me about there was a player led summit in November. Were you there? [00:12:57] Speaker B: Yes. [00:12:58] Speaker A: Tell me about that. I was talking with Steve Bauer. He said it was like very important culture. You guys came in, shared a lot of ideas through the program, what needed to happen, what was that like and what was it like being part of. [00:13:10] Speaker B: The talking to previous players? We just thought about how Canada basketball is not in the situation where they were in the past. You know, it's expected that we qualify, and that was a step that was taken, I want to say, around 2012, where we've qualified consistently since then. But we don't want to be stagnant with that and recognizing that, you know, we have to move and we have to change and we have to adapt if we want to hit that podium, if we want to hit the top of the podium and finding out within ourselves it was very much player led. What we want in the future, what we want in a coach, the commitment levels, which was really important because as players, we need to be as committed as the coaches are to get to the top of those podiums. So a lot of just deep conversations about, you know, accountability and understanding that we fell short in the past, but not holding onto it too tightly and recognizing that there's still room to grow and we have to take different steps to find different results. [00:14:02] Speaker A: Yeah. Amazing answer. Like, tell me about the Olympics. Like, we are not the results you wanted, but your first Olympics, youngest to ever do it. That's Got to be crazy. Like, tell me just about when you found out officially you're going to be on the Olympic roster. And then getting there, getting to France, witnessing, like, this is a life, like, I wish I could get to the Olympics one day, you know? So, yeah, tell me about that. [00:14:26] Speaker B: Yeah, I think even now, looking back, I don't fully believe that I'm an Olympian. I found out in B.C. at that training camp after we had played those whoop it up games in B.C. and I was like, okay, I know I'm on the roster, but I'm not gonna feel like an Olympian until we get into camp. And then it was, no, I still don't feel like an Olympian. Once we play our first game, and even hearing the Canadian national anthem, looking at the flag and being on the court playing our first game, it still feels unreal to know that I'm the youngest that has done it. And being an Olympian, that was my biggest goal for myself, the biggest goal I'd set before even choosing basketball. I wanted to represent Canada at the highest level and help Canada achieve levels that they hadn't before. And knowing that I like I'd achieve that goal at such a young age, it's not something that, like, I take lightly. It's a privilege anytime, like I said, whether it's my Olympic debut, whether it's another uniting tournament, I love representing in Canada. And anytime I'm on the court, it's special. [00:15:22] Speaker A: What was it like to get out there? Was it. Was it nerves? Was it jitters? [00:15:26] Speaker B: There were a lot of nerves. We played France the first game, the home team, I want to say it was 27,000 fans, a lot of French, a lot of French people, but we still had our Canadian section. And just knowing that I was with a group of 11 other girls who had been through the hard training camp, had been through the tough Olympic pre qualifying that we had to go through, and the staff that really believed in us. It was a special feeling of unity in knowing that we're representing Canada at a high level. [00:15:51] Speaker A: Did you go to any other major events that was at the Olympics? [00:15:55] Speaker B: Yeah, we got to go to track. That was really cool. [00:15:57] Speaker A: What was your favorite? I was going to ask. [00:15:58] Speaker B: We saw hurdles. That's just crazy how fast they run. And then they're jumping on top of stuff, too. But it was. It was a really great atmosphere. [00:16:05] Speaker A: I want to shift over to college basketball now. I feel like, like I said, I was so lucky to be able to witness this at the Hoop Summit with you. Jasmine Basco, Lani Gibb, Toby Fournier, Avery Howell. Historic class, I feel like for Canadian college basketball. What are your thoughts on it? How often do you guys keep in touch? What's that? The camaraderie like with that group? And tell me just about what are your thoughts on this group coming up. [00:16:33] Speaker B: That swing of talent, it's really special just because we grew up playing against each other in the OSBA and OBA and all those things and knowing that we saw each other through our journeys and saw each other grow and do the things we want to do, but also recognizing that we're doing something for Canada together in a group of people that genuinely enjoy each other's company. Like we call every day. I text Jaz every day. Delaney too. Like going up through the age groups with her to now being on senior team. It's just like a full circle moment in knowing like we're really doing this together. And yes, we're on our own journeys and we're on our own colleges, but we're so happy to see the success of other people. And it's something that I don't think you have every day with all your teammates. [00:17:15] Speaker A: Yeah. Live group chat going on from the hoops summit team. Like, how close are you guys? And I guess you guys are probably sending like congratulatory texts whenever someone you guys make an all freshman team or whatever it is. [00:17:26] Speaker B: Yeah. You know, we're the first to repost other stories when they get a certain award or freshman of the week. I know. Like the three of us, me, Jaz, Toby, Delaney, we were all going back and forth with those for a little bit. So it's just really great to see Canada basketball making an impact in the college game right now, seeing the projection that women's sports is at, especially in basketball, and recognizing that Canada's right there and we're producing those players that can make that impact too. It's really special to be a part of, I think. [00:17:55] Speaker A: You, Toby, Elaine and Jasmine, do you guys play all AU together? [00:17:59] Speaker B: Yes, we all played. Key. [00:18:00] Speaker A: What was that experience like? Keanu Aliyah. Correct. What was that experience like? [00:18:04] Speaker B: I mean, that was great. You know, coming to the States, that was my first time playing against American talent. Toby done it a couple times. Jaz had done it a couple times. But I think that's when we really started to bond and recognizing that we're different than the other American AAU teams simply because were from the other side of the border. And it's a bit of a chip on your shoulder that you carry every time you're playing against other Americans because you're known as that Canadian player and you're known as, oh, like they're not from here. Are they even supposed to be here? Are they good enough to be here? And that's something that, you know, you carry with you. Whatever jersey you put on, whether you're playing high school in the States, whether you're playing college in the States, you're still Canadian at the end of the day. And that's when we really started to bond over, you know, we won Boo Williams together, which is a really great big tournament EYL circuit. And that's when we started to gain momentum within ourselves to say, like, you know, we can do really big things with the American basketball stage. [00:18:54] Speaker A: Y' all did I want to go through. I feel like we've chatted about your, your journey to getting to Michigan. Not on this podcast, but I want people listening to this to talk and hear about your high school journey. Just your recruitment. What was that like? How many offers did you have coming out of, out of high school? [00:19:11] Speaker B: I don't have a specific number. I never kept count. But everywhere, all across the board, you know, mid power five, anything. And I started out my two years of high school in Canada, in Sudbury, actually playing at Lowland Park Prep. And that was a great program because it allowed me to stay at home with my family while still competing at a high level. And then my 11th grade year, we moved over to New York because my dad got a job with the NBA team in Brooklyn. And that was just an adjustment in itself. You know, you're playing ESPN televised games as a high school kid, playing against top rank recruits every day in practice. I think my entire senior class of six people went division one. And those are people you're playing against every single day, people that you're becoming best friends with. And those are the habits that you build is what you're doing with those people. And just that everyday competition and the exposure that you have, you're seeing what other teams are doing, you're seeing what the level other people your age are at in the states. And it makes you, you know, you can hold yourself to that standard because you see what they're doing, you see how they're training every day, what the practices are set up like. So. And then I don't think I got my, I got my first offer after my first year playing au and that's when I was like, okay, I'm going to state. That offer. What was the offer? [00:20:22] Speaker A: Yeah, for what team? [00:20:23] Speaker B: I think it was Eastern Michigan. [00:20:24] Speaker A: Okay. [00:20:25] Speaker B: And I always thought I was going to go to Laurentian University. [00:20:27] Speaker A: Yeah. Remember you talked about. [00:20:28] Speaker B: Because that's where my dad coached. We had talked about that. And I never saw anything wrong with that. In my opinion. It's what I grew up watching. Those are my role models. So I would have. It would have been so cool to go there. But then recognizing that, you know, I can do something with basketball and that the stage that is NCAA in women's sports especially, it's just a privilege to be. To say I got a scholarship because of basketball. [00:20:49] Speaker A: Yeah. Shout out to esports, especially Laurentian University. I feel like people don't realize it. I used to cover it a lot. And it's the talent there doesn't get enough love. And you just talking about wanting to go to Laurentian University. Like, man, those days were my favorite days. Covering just Carly, obviously coaches. I covered her at Ryerson now tmu. But yeah, a lot of good talent esports. People should check that out. [00:21:13] Speaker B: There's a lot of great local talent. You know, even just going to the women's game on a Friday night, on a Saturday night, the men's games. It's a great opportunity to see what's happening in your own community. A great opportunity to learn about the players that support your university, your local teams. And I used to go to all the basketball camps at Laurentian University. I love the players. Even now going back, I play with the women's team and Jason Hurley and all those girls that I grew up with playing. So youth sport's done a great job of providing Canadians with those opportunities to stay at home and still play basketball. [00:21:43] Speaker A: Of course, you moved to the States for, like, we talked about, grade 11 year. Obviously. Your dad got the job with the Brooklyn Nets, the G League team. Tell me, I want to get your thoughts on this because I was chatting with. I got me here and I was also chatting with names slipping my mind. But I was chatting with them in Portland just about going to the States to play basketball. Is it needed. Is it. Does it need to happen, like, for you to get that exposure? Because you end up being like the fourth ranked player on espn. Like, we will talk about that too. But do you. What was the move like for you and what are your thoughts on, like, maybe some young players? Like, I'm debating whether I should go to the States and play basketball. [00:22:26] Speaker B: Yeah. I wouldn't say it's necessary by any means. I would say it helps the. I was unranked coming into my junior year and then I went to the States and moved up in the rankings every year until, like, that's crazy, though. [00:22:39] Speaker A: Like, what are y' all doing wrong? [00:22:40] Speaker B: Yeah, but exactly. It's because you're Canadian. And my talent, yeah, I got better, but not drastically. It's just the recognition you're getting for, like I said, ESPN games in high school and playing against the top 10 teams in the States, in high school, playing against top recruits. And every day you're measuring yourself up against the best, and people are seeing you push yourself against the best. So Canada was great. And I would have stayed there my four years had my dad not have gotten the job again. Playing AAU in the summertime and playing in the OSBA is a great league. I think that's a great option, but it's not for everybody. And some people do feel they need to take the steps to go to the States. But at the end of the day, if you're working in the gym, if you're getting your reps in, there's plenty of people you can play against in Canada, and plenty of people do get scholarships to the United States playing out of any Canadian league. And it's the effort you're willing to put into it. And either way is hard. Neither way is easy. You know, you're moving away from home, you're playing against hard players, or you're pushing yourself against not the same amount of talent as the States because we have less people. But Canadian basketball's still great, and you can still get to where you want to be in Canada. So I think you can't go wrong with either option, but you just have to be bought into whatever you choose. [00:23:49] Speaker A: I agree with that. Because you look at Toby, played all four years. [00:23:52] Speaker B: Exactly. [00:23:52] Speaker A: And she's killing it at Duke, right? Played at Crestwood. So, yeah, I agree with you. I think it's like a. Whatever, like, situation fits you best. And obviously it was a perfect situation for you. Ended up going to Long Island. Lou. Hi. End up being a McDonald's All American. What was that experience like playing at the Nike Hoop Summit? I think two years, right? [00:24:13] Speaker B: Yep, two years. [00:24:14] Speaker A: And you guys should have won that game. I'm still thinking back. [00:24:17] Speaker B: We should have won that one. [00:24:19] Speaker A: But tell me, what was that? All the athletes coming in. I know you're not like. I remember watching a lot of the games this past year from you and the post games. You just never take the credit. I'm like, so, like, come on. [00:24:31] Speaker B: What? [00:24:32] Speaker A: I appreciate it because it's always a team for you, and that's what's most Important. But what was it like getting all these accolades and kind of getting recognized? When we talked about it, not really getting the love until you had to make the move to the States? [00:24:48] Speaker B: I would say what excited me most was knowing that I'm a Canadian doing all these things, you know, McDonald's all American. I talked to Naira Fields when she was on the national team. She had done it, too, playing in the States. And it wasn't necessarily having Jordan Brand Classic McDonald's All American to my name or even Hoop Summit. It was just knowing that at Hoop Summit, I was wearing Canada, or at McDonald's, I was that Canadian guard who made it in the American All Star Game. And just knowing that, you know, we can. We can make great things happen out of Canada and we have the resources to do what we want to do. And again, like, I went. I lived in Canada for my whole life, so being a McDonald's All American wasn't ever something I was chasing because it wasn't available to me until I moved to the States. And getting. It was like, this is a cool bonus. You know, we got a lot of cool gear. We got to meet some cool performers. It was a great experience. But just knowing that, you know, it's attached to Canada now as we have another Canadian all American, Agat McKear, Deniya Pral. There's a lot of Canadians coming up with those other accolades, and I think it's something really exciting for the next gen of Canada basketball in the program. [00:25:51] Speaker A: Yeah. Get to Michigan and what was your five schools like? I know people release their top fives. What was the top five that you had narrowed it down to? [00:26:00] Speaker B: I had only took officials to Utah and Michigan. [00:26:04] Speaker A: Why? [00:26:05] Speaker B: Because I was true in my process, and I knew what I wanted. And I didn't do the whole releasing the top five or all that, because I am a private person and I don't want to be influenced by outside voices. And at the end of the day, it's my decision and it's my choice. And putting out a top five, it's great, but it's not what I'm doing for. I'm not here to get followers from all these different teams and get opinions from all these people. I knew what I wanted. Even after the Michigan visit. You know, I had people telling me to open up my recruitment and all this stuff, because by then I was ranked fourth in the country and I had more recognition. I had all this stuff. [00:26:41] Speaker A: So everyone was calling. [00:26:42] Speaker B: Well, I had a lot of options, but I knew that Michigan was where I wanted to be. And while I had, like, I could have opened it up and taken all these visits, I was true with the process. And I trusted where I was going to be and where I was going to land. I trusted the staff. I love coach Rico. I love the people she recruited around me and with me. And I just knew it was where I wanted to be, and I wasn't going to let that be influenced by any outside force. [00:27:08] Speaker A: Your sister's obviously going through the same process now. What's been your biggest advice to her? [00:27:12] Speaker B: The same thing is trusting what you want and finding out what you want, because a lot of people are going to have. I have opinions. I want her to go to Michigan. [00:27:19] Speaker A: I was about to say, are you my parents? Are you pushing her? [00:27:21] Speaker B: I'm pushing her, but I'm also taking that role and knowing that she needs to make the decision herself, and I'm going to support her either way. I always say I'm her biggest competitor, but I. I'm her biggest supporter ahead of all that, and it would be great. I would love to have her in Michigan. It would be great. But I'm gonna love her at the end of the day, and I want her to make a decision because she loves the school and she knows that somewhere she's gonna be successful. So we'll see what happens. [00:27:44] Speaker A: That's gonna be Canada's team if she ends up there. [00:27:47] Speaker B: Yeah, we'll see. [00:27:48] Speaker A: I think you guys are top 25 team this past year, Am I correct? [00:27:51] Speaker B: Yeah. [00:27:51] Speaker A: How would you describe what you guys are building at Michigan and getting there on campus for the first time? What was that all like? [00:27:58] Speaker B: It was a really tough off season for the program. They had a lot of people transfer out, and it was. [00:28:03] Speaker A: What are your thoughts on it, too? Just everyone is nil. [00:28:06] Speaker B: That's a crazy thing. [00:28:07] Speaker C: Yeah. [00:28:07] Speaker B: I mean, it's tough to build a program around people coming in and out every year. I think it's not something that college sports are used to, but it is due. Players should be getting paid for the money that they're bringing in and the work that they're putting in, but it does change the landscape. And looking at our program this year, seeing that we only had one player enter the portal, it says something about the people we're with, the staff, the people around us, the community is that, yeah, Michigan, we're not all the bright lights, and we're not about all that stuff, but we're fine with that, and that's who we are. And the people that see it, they get it and they understand it and they fall in love with it and they stay there because they love the staff. We love each other. We genuinely like being around each other in the company. And you know, we had five freshmen coming in, we started three freshmen which I don't know if there's many others programs in the country that did that. And it's just really exciting knowing that we have, we had transfers last year coming from mid major and we were able to do what we did with really only one player playing Power 5 basketball prior to that season and recognizing that, you know, we have experience under our belt now and I think that's something that's really exciting coming into next year. [00:29:14] Speaker A: Yeah. Coach Kim, I have a quote that she said about you and I was like, I feel like this kind of says who you are. She said something like, I'm like, is she a freshman or is she a assistant coach? Doing this for 20 years and you don't look at the box squares apparently, right? No, that's crazy. [00:29:32] Speaker B: Well look at turnovers and stuff. [00:29:34] Speaker A: But like I'm going to read you some stats because I feel like you, I want to, I want to talk about, I feel like the debut you had in college basketball was insane. 27 points, 12 rebounds against South Carolina who end up being in the championship game. And then you had another game where I think you finished double figures in like 25 games, 1120 point games. I'm obviously gassing you up and I'm. But I'm trying to say that the season that you had, I feel like we haven't really seen especially we talking about the historic class of freshmen, what Delaney's doing at byu, what made you maybe so prepared for college? What was the adjustment like or what was it like going into it all? [00:30:18] Speaker B: I was so prepared because I spent a whole summer playing against WNBA All Stars, playing against four time Olympians and Natalie Ochonwa and people that were pushing me every day. And yeah, I wasn't playing 40 minutes a game but those five to 10 minutes, those limited reps I had in practice, I was getting better every time I had the chance and I was learning every time I had the chance. And coming off of a summer like that, coming off of the Olympics where you're an probably the highest competition in basketball internationally, it is the highest competition in that intense environment, that pressure environment, anything less you just can't help but feel prepared for and feel like you've worked for and you know, we were in training camp for three or four months so I knew I was Ready to hit the college stage, understanding that I'd been put up against the best in the world and guarded the best in the world and played offense against the best in the world for a whole summer. So I just had confidence and felt ready. [00:31:13] Speaker A: Any favorite matchups you had, maybe at the Olympics or a player that you guarded? Like, I'm really guarding this person right now. [00:31:18] Speaker B: Yeah, I would say Marine Johannes from France. That was Jason Hurley, the Laurentian women's coach. He always said that, you know, I should watch her film. I should watch her shoot because her shot is so. It's so great, and she finds her players and all this stuff. And then I was. That was my matchup when we played is when she's on, I'm guarding her. So that was really just a surreal moment in understanding that, you know, those are my idols. Even playing with Keeners, like, I played for AAU team and now sharing the court with her, it's just moments like that where it reminds you, like, yeah, you come from somewhere, and if you work, then you're going to get to where you want to be. [00:31:50] Speaker A: Yeah, I want to go through a bit more of your accolades in college basketball. Name to the Big Ten all tournament team. First freshman in program history to earn that honor. Name to the Big Ten all freshman team. And then what am I looking at, too? Big Ten All Freshman team and Big Ten second team by coaches and media. Did you have, like, a welcome to college moment? [00:32:12] Speaker B: Welcome to college. I would say the South Carolina game was, in a sense, welcome to college because we had some. It was all South Carolina fans in the big stadium. Our hotel lobby was. They were selling T shirts and they were cheering Go Gamecocks as we walked through. And it was like, yeah, this is what college basketball is. This is the college fans and they travel, and this is Don Staley. And all this stuff that you see on tv. And just being part of that, it was just. It was crazy to see, like, those are the people that I watched during March Madness, and those are the brackets I would fill out. I would fill out. You know, South Carolina's gonna win this game. And seeing, like, that it's real and that it's a thing and being a part of it was really cool. [00:32:52] Speaker A: I want to ask you goals for yourself for next year. Like, we talked about Freshman All American. I don't know if you do individual goals, team goals. Like, what does it look like for you in the next year or so? [00:33:03] Speaker B: I would say I'm not huge on the individual accolades, but I want to Be more efficient offensively. I want to be better in every category. More assists, more rebounds, more steals. And I want to step into a big leadership piece for our team vocally because we have, we have those freshmen and those freshmen are going to be sophomores and those are going to be our vets next year. Majority of the team is going to be freshmen last year. So just stepping into that leadership piece and I, I think we can do a really, a lot of really great things with this team. You know, compete really great in the Big Ten, win the Big Ten tournament, win the Big Ten in general. Those are all things that aren't far out of reach for this program next year. So doing all those things have been on our radar. [00:33:45] Speaker A: Yeah. Busy summer like we talked about. Obviously looking to expand your game. What's been something you've been like, honing in on that you're like, I want to add this to my bag. Or just like maybe polishing up for next season. [00:33:55] Speaker B: More confidence with my dribbling, for sure. There's a lot of times where I'm the taller guard, being guarded by a 5 foot 6 point guard who's really quick. And I want to have the confidence to bring the ball up because we had one point guard last year. She's also Canadian, Mila Holloway. To be able to help her out in those moments and be more confident with myself and my dribbling. And I know that's going to help me going into pro, going into the next Olympics and all those things. So definitely polishing up my dribbling and my handle. [00:34:21] Speaker A: Excited to see that. I read that you went back home and gave a talk to a school that your cousins attended. [00:34:26] Speaker B: Yeah. [00:34:27] Speaker A: Tell me, how did that happen? I think they reached out to you. How did it happen? [00:34:30] Speaker B: Yeah, well, it was just. We had my cousins over for dinner and I was helping one of them with her math homework and she was like, hey, can you come talk to my school? I said, you know you're gonna have to ask your teachers, right? I can't just come in. And my aunt ended up setting it up at Alexander Public School. And they had all these balloons and the local TV stations were there and everyone had Canada flags and Canada shirts on. I got introduced. One student wrote a rap song. [00:34:55] Speaker A: Wow. [00:34:55] Speaker B: So it was just. It was really great to be able to give back to the community and kind of be on the other end of things because I knew I would get so excited whenever we had a guest in the assemblies and you got to go to the gym. And the days were just it was so exciting that day when you knew somebody was coming. So to just. Just be on the other end. And being from Sudbury, especially, showing that you don't just have to play hockey to get out of Sudbury, in a sense, and make it big and do big things with your dreams. Being a women's basketball player on top of that, you know, Sudbury is a hockey town and then it's a football town, and then it's a men's basketball town. But women's basketball especially is coming up in Sudbury. And I wanted to show that while you may not be part of the majority of what everyone do, what everyone does, it's not. It doesn't mean that's it for you. [00:35:39] Speaker A: Yeah. I think you also had a camp in Thornhill. Yeah, I believe. What was that like? [00:35:43] Speaker B: That was great. That was my first camp where I've run myself. It was really cool to just, you know, go through drills with the kids and it was all girls. So to be able to give them confidence, to know that, you know, you're playing, you may be playing a guy's sport, but you can do great things with it. And women's basketball is on everybody's radar at this point, and it's growing and letting them understand that they can take the game pretty far. [00:36:06] Speaker A: Amazing. I love it when athletes just come back and back, especially because you just know the importance of it. [00:36:11] Speaker B: Right. [00:36:11] Speaker A: For players and young athletes coming up, FIBA U19. I'm very excited for this. I don't want to put pressure on you. I'm expecting a medal. I want a medal, personally. I want you guys to bring one back for me. But what can we expect from this team? I know we hinted at some of the players that then she might be suiting up. Jasmine Basco, Avery Howell, I don't think Agamet Makir herself, obviously. What can we expect from this team? And I'm guessing you've played with a lot of these people. [00:36:43] Speaker B: Yeah, it's going to be really exciting just knowing that we have a couple different age groups, a couple different people that have done a lot of great things by themselves. You know, the U16 team had a great America run last summer. And U19 team a couple years ago, you know, we had a medal. So seeing all these big names, we have a bunch of college commits coming in going into freshmen. We have sophomores like Delaney or Delaney Gibbs, too old, but Jasmine Bosco, Avery Howell, who had a great college season. And seeing that all come together for Canada, I think it's going to be really special because we're exciting players to watch. It's going to be an exciting style of play. It's going to be quick. We're going to score a lot, but we're also going to. We're going to. We take pride in defense, too. And it's people that, you know, grew up playing in Canada, that grew up playing in these local gyms and these local streets. And to see it all come together, even though it's overseas, you know, we want to bring a metal comeback. We want to bring a gold one. [00:37:36] Speaker A: I want to ask you about Gottmik here because I was speaking to her dad a few months back and told me the first person she met when she came for basketball camp was you when she was like 12 years old. Do you remember that at all? And tell me about that first interaction you guys had. [00:37:50] Speaker B: Yeah, yeah. Gotts from Thunder Bay, and I'm from Sudbury, Ontario, which is very far apart, but we're both up north. And so the closest basketball camp for her was in Sudbury. [00:38:00] Speaker A: Like 12 hours. [00:38:01] Speaker B: Yeah, 12 hours. That's the closest she could get. [00:38:04] Speaker A: Yeah. [00:38:05] Speaker B: I just remember her being really quiet, but she was just this athletic kid and we were like, where. Why have we never heard of her before? Like, she's doing all these things that just started basketball and we were just. It was just so light hearted, you know, we were joking around, having fun, but just to recognize like, you know, that was us. And now we're here and now we're gonna play together again. We were both just. I think it was grade six, maybe grade seven. Like we were really young and seeing to where we're going now, her being a South Carolina commit and doing everything she did at Crestwood, me being Michigan, it's just. It's really cool to know that we both found our own pathways and we're both doing great things with basketball. [00:38:43] Speaker A: Crazy small world. [00:38:45] Speaker B: Yeah. [00:38:45] Speaker A: And I think her pops was telling me too. She was. She was thinking of going to the school you were going to until you went to Lehigh. [00:38:50] Speaker B: So I think we would have. [00:38:51] Speaker A: That would have been a crazy duo. [00:38:51] Speaker B: It would have been craz. [00:38:52] Speaker A: Hey, wish we got to see that. You just committed to South Carolina. I don't know if you guys are playing Basing South Carolina next year. [00:39:00] Speaker B: Not scheduled. [00:39:01] Speaker A: Maybe in the turn we'll see it. Global Jam is set to happen. The Mattamy Athletic Center, August 13 to 17. You can go get your tickets at Global Jam. Ca. That's Global Jam without the A in global. Sal is going to be suiting up. [00:39:17] Speaker B: Yep. [00:39:18] Speaker A: How excited are you for that especially being able to play at home. [00:39:21] Speaker B: I can't wait. You know, Global Jam's been a really big event the past couple years in Canada. Great turnout playing in Toronto. You know, it's the basketball hub of Canada and those, I travel those four hours every weekend to go and play my OSBA games and I'd play at the Matamy and all these things. So to be able to come home and finally being of age to be able to participate in the tournament, it's going to be really exciting. And you know we have Texas coming, representing the United States. That's going to be a great game. Every game is going to be like we have so many great young players coming up, college players fresh off of great deep tournament runs. High school players like a God who's going to do great things in South Carolina. So it's just going to be a big moment of coming together and something that's really accessible for anybody to go to. You know, it's in your backyard. It's, it's not that expensive. It's going to be a great time. It's. They, they put on a great production and we're going to put on some great basketball for people to watch. [00:40:13] Speaker A: Like I said, go get your tickets@globaljam.ca. when was the last time you played in Ontario? [00:40:19] Speaker B: Oh my goodness. Maybe grade 10. [00:40:21] Speaker A: Damn. [00:40:22] Speaker B: Yeah. [00:40:23] Speaker A: Three, four years ago. That was a long time ago. So I'm excited, excited to watch you play. Sila, it's been amazing following your journey from a hoop summit to now killing in college basketball. I can't thank you enough for coming in studio. [00:40:38] Speaker B: Of course. [00:40:39] Speaker A: On the setup. Yeah, the nice setup. [00:40:40] Speaker B: No, it's awesome. I love this. [00:40:42] Speaker A: We'll get you some pictures after this. But Salah can't think, you know and yeah. Excited to watch the rest of your career. [00:40:47] Speaker B: Thank you for having me. [00:41:03] Speaker A: Welcome back to the Canadian Basketball Show. I'm joined by another special guest. She is Gonzaga's all time leader in points, rebounds, field goals, the back to back west coast conference player of the year and defensive player of the year representing Canada, the 2024 Olympic Games, Calgary's very own Yvonne Ejam. How you doing? [00:41:25] Speaker C: I'm doing great. How are you? [00:41:26] Speaker A: Good, good, good. I can't thank you enough for joining us in studio. [00:41:29] Speaker C: Yeah, thank you for having me. I appreciate it. [00:41:31] Speaker A: You're obviously here for training camp. Canada, FIBA America coming up in end of June. What's that been like? How's camp been so far? [00:41:40] Speaker C: Yeah, just day one. Really good day one. I Mean, just getting out there, being able to play, being with the new staff and stuff like that has been really good. I feel like the vibes are up, the energy's up. I think we're all excited, and that's just something that, you know, you can't force that onto anybody. So I'm happy that we all have that and that it just keeps growing, especially with what we're trying to do on the court as well. And when we go down to americup, it's gold all the way. So I'm hoping that this energy brings that into light more. [00:42:10] Speaker A: Like you said, new staff. I'll get into that in a bit. FIBA America cup at the end of this month will be first heading to Brazil for a series of exhibition games from June 17 to 24. And then Canada will travel to Santiago, Chile, for the tournament. Any spots in Brazil? Chile, you excited to hit up? [00:42:30] Speaker C: I don't know yet. I do have a couple friends from Brazil, so I might ask them for a little location and just some spots. But I've seen like, a couple, like, videos and whatnot, and people always have fun in Brazil, so that'll be nice. And I haven't been to either country, so I'm super excited. Just explore both. It's like my favorite thing to do. [00:42:51] Speaker A: I'm jealous. I'm gonna be living through you while you're out there. Crazy. I feel like last two months for you, getting drafted in the WNBA by the Indiana Fever, getting away, but then signing your first pro contract, which is very exciting. I want you to walk me, like, through it all. First, take me back to April. Where were you at on Draft night? Where were you watching it and what was it like hearing your name called? [00:43:16] Speaker C: Yeah, Draft Night. I was at school in Spokane, and my whole team, coaches, their families, our practice players were there. And we're just like all in this conference room with a big screen just watching Draft Night. I think we were there for like three hours. But yeah, we're just sitting down, just waiting, waiting, waiting. I'm like half on the phone with my agent, like, half texting him and all the things like getting the updates. And I had a feeling a little bit coming towards when they were like, my projected pic was. And I was just like, my mind was blank. I was thinking about nothing. I think I went on my phone. Cause I was so nervous. I started scrolling on Instagram. Cause I was like, I can't look at the screen anymore. I'm about to burst. And when my name popped up, I just like, I Sank. And my whole team, like, completely, like, swarmed me. It was amazing. Like, obviously, I didn't have my family there. They were at home. But we were obviously, like, texting the whole entire time, too. I think I was on FaceTime with my mom, like, during it as well. But just, like, having all of that support around me, I think is, like, definitely the best moment from being drafted on draft night. But, yeah, it was amazing. I really enjoyed it. [00:44:33] Speaker A: I was gonna ask, was your phone blowing up up? Was the family hosting, like, a watch party? What was that? Like? [00:44:38] Speaker C: My phone was definitely blowing up. It was. Okay. I haven't told anybody this. [00:44:43] Speaker A: Let me hear it. [00:44:44] Speaker C: But on draft night, I kid you not, like, one second before my name was called, I'm on my phone scrolling on Instagram. I get a text message from one of my, like, besties back at school because she was also tuning in, and all I see is, good job. And I'm like, wait, what? So I look up at the screen, and they're like, ding, ding. Yvonne James picture. And I was like, not you spoiling it for me. So, like, I already knew before it was, like, told, because my friend already knew before I was told. [00:45:19] Speaker A: How did she know? [00:45:20] Speaker C: I think her TV was, like, a hit or something like that. I was like, are you kidding me? Like, I couldn't even find out for myself first. But it's okay. Like, it was still good vibes and all this stuff. And I kid you not, like, it was one second before my name was called, so I was like, oh, my gosh. Oh, my gosh. Like, the whole thing. So. But yeah, just, like, a lot of, like, support from my friends, my family, my brothers called me and things like that. Just, like, congratulating me. Yeah, just like, an amazing and amazing experience. [00:45:53] Speaker A: Draft night is always, like, my favorite night because it's just like, like, you've been working your whole life for this moment, right? And then hearing your name called. Take me through the whole process. You get drafted, third round, 33rd pick. What's next? Are you on a flight to Indiana? Walk me through it. Are the fever calling you up? Like, what's that? [00:46:10] Speaker C: Like, definitely that same day, got on the phone with, like, the Fever GM and the president as well. And then I think later on, just, like, talking to some of the staff and getting all the text messages to, like, coordinate everything and whatnot. And then I think I left, like, a couple days, maybe, like, a week after I got drafted. I don't really remember, honestly, that whole entire period of time from, like, drafted to like, in Indiana, I don't remember it. It doesn't really matter anyways. But, yeah, just, like, getting connected to a lot of people. And then I, like, packed up all of my stuff from university. I was like, bye, guys. Like, nice knowing you. Not really, but, you know, and then I was out there and it was. It was amazing. Like, it was great. I really enjoyed my time in Indiana. [00:47:00] Speaker A: I was gonna ask, what was the environment like when you got there? I feel like it's Especially the Pacers now in the playoffs. Right. So what was that whole environment like? [00:47:07] Speaker C: Yeah, just like, super friend from the start. It was very new. Like, a lot of new players, new coaching staff and things like that. So they're just trying to, like, you know, create their championship team, their championship culture. And I think just being able to be in that environment, see everyone, like, having put work in there for, like, the players and the coaches that have been here for, like, a month or so before I got there, and just, like, you know, being in a place that really wanted to help everybody around them, I think that's something that you can't really make up anywhere else. So I'm just grateful to have been in an environment that also wanted to see me succeed, too. So that's really what I got from both players and coaches and staff, and I think even Indiana, too. Like, they get super hype about the Fever and the Pacers, so that was just amazing to see it all. [00:47:54] Speaker A: What was it like playing your first preseason game and getting that experience? [00:47:57] Speaker C: Yeah. [00:47:58] Speaker A: Were you nervous? [00:48:00] Speaker C: Yeah. Oh, my gosh. But, you know, just, like. I don't even know how to explain it. Like, surreal. I just, like, I'm here. I'm a pro finally. Like, I finished my college career, but, like, I've really. I've put in the work to get to this moment, and, like, I'm living it. So I tried my best to take it in as much as I could, but definitely a lot of nerves, but just a lot of gratitude as well. Like, you can't say that all the time. So I'm just grateful that I was given an opportunity. [00:48:30] Speaker A: Yeah, obviously, one of the last cuts, but I don't think people realize how difficult it is to make a WNB roster. I think there's only, like, 144 spots across 12 teams, and you were right there. Right there from your time in Indiana. What do you take away from that time and. And maybe what you learned and just learning from the whole experience. [00:48:51] Speaker C: Yeah, I think one of my biggest takeaways is just, like, living in the moment for sure. And not taking anything for granted too. Like whether that's a rep, a conversation, like obviously being in a new city, just like the different restaurants that I could go to or like I found this like really good restaurant for like the first time. I've never tried it and I was like, like, this is amazing. Like also chopped greens. [00:49:18] Speaker A: Okay. [00:49:18] Speaker C: Yeah. [00:49:18] Speaker A: What culture? I was going to say. I don't know if Indiana got some culture. [00:49:24] Speaker C: They have like, they have a bunch of restaurants on like Mass Ave. So you like go and you can find like a lot of stuff. So it's just kind of there. I don't know if it's specific. It was more like greens, like just like salads and stuff like that. [00:49:36] Speaker A: Not for me. I'm African, so, you know, I'm like, I know, right? [00:49:39] Speaker C: I know. It was definitely a little bit out of my, like, I don't know, palette, but people were recommending it so I was like, oh, like, might as well try different stuff while I'm out here. So, you know, just like not taking any of that for granted and just being grateful, I think that's all I could really do. And if anything, that just leads me to like, wanting more and like, you know, fighting for more. So. Yeah. [00:50:01] Speaker A: Yeah. Just signed with IDK in Spain. Euro cup team. I think they play in the Spanish league also. [00:50:06] Speaker C: Yeah. [00:50:07] Speaker A: How did that come about and. And what's the excitement? Heading to Spain? I'm jealous. You get to play pro basketball in Spain. [00:50:14] Speaker C: Yeah. Really nice. Yeah. Just my agent, not to boost him a lot and things like that, but he works his tail off. So I will definitely just making sure that I'm getting what I want from my perspective and what I want to do with my career and things like that. So just being supportive on that end. And I feel like that's really how I landed in Spain. Had different options for sure, but, you know, I'm just like, I'm looking forward to having my first year overseas. Don't know what it's going to be like. It could be bad, could be good. You really don't know until you get there and you're in it. So I'm just excited to go out and start that journey of mine. But yeah, Spain is going to be really nice. I hear the city that I'm going to is like, beautiful. So I'm ready. My bays are packed. [00:51:06] Speaker A: Yeah. Weather probably crazy too, right? [00:51:09] Speaker C: Yeah, yeah, yeah. [00:51:10] Speaker A: I'm excited for you. When do you have to report in Spain and what does that look like. [00:51:14] Speaker C: Around, like September, usually like a month before all of the competitions start. [00:51:20] Speaker A: Yeah. Okay, good. So now, summer focus. Canada basketball. That's why you're here, for the training camp. You played at the last few Maricop, am I correct? [00:51:28] Speaker C: Yeah. [00:51:29] Speaker A: What do you remember about that tournament? And. And maybe that's helping you now, Obviously, now you're a pro, Right. I feel like you're one of the vets on this team. People are gonna be looking at you. [00:51:38] Speaker C: Yeah. [00:51:38] Speaker A: What do you bring in from that experience to now? [00:51:40] Speaker C: Yeah. In that tournament, we got bronze. And I think, if anything, it's something to take away from that tournament. Going into this one, I just say, like, the relentlessness, like, don't settle. Don't leave anything out there or leave everything out there. Don't leave anything back. I think that's just the mentality. That's the effort. That's the attitude. That's just the way we need to play in order to get gold. So, I mean, it really depends how you want to show up, whether that's for yourself, whether that's for your teammates, whether that's for your country. But I think bringing all of that together can really make this team what we're building this team to be. [00:52:21] Speaker A: A lot has changed with Canada basketball, I feel like in the last year. Your new head coach, Mel Fortner, what was your reaction when you heard her name be chosen as new head coach, and what did you know about her? [00:52:32] Speaker C: Yeah, definitely just super excited that we got a coach in the first place. I was like. I was like, are you guys gonna tell us who it is? Like, you said you were gonna tell us last week that. Anyways, shout out to Steve. Yeah. Yeah, it was great. And the funny thing is that after Nell got, like, appointed as our head coach, she was in Indiana watching our practice because she's the coach there at the Fever. So I got to talk to her after one of our practices and be like, nice to meet you. My name's Yvonne, and things like that. So even from then, she was just super excited. You could just see her. She was very eager to just get in the gym and get started with us. So I think that's just something great, having somebody who's invested and committed and wants to be there. But, yeah, I feel like now whether, like, whatever I knew before, like, I'm just getting to know her, like, all over again, just being around her. But great first day, so I'm ready for tomorrow. [00:53:30] Speaker A: Yeah. I want to ask you about her resume. Coached in college at Auburn, Georgia Tech. Retired just recently. UC Basketball, the most winningest coach spent time, like we said, with the, the fever, the wnba. When you hear that her resume inside was talking about, you guys had a play led summit in November, kind of talking about what you wanted for the program, how they could help you, how you could help them, that kind of stuff. I want to get to that in a bit. But when I'm telling you her resume and you saw all that she has accomplished and she's going to be coaching you guys, what was your thought process? [00:54:02] Speaker C: I feel like seeing that you just can tell that she knows the work and the effort that it takes to get to gain success. And just seeing kind of of all of the things that she's been able to do, where she's been able to go, the programs that she's been able to change. That's just something that comes from a person that wants the people around them to succeed. And I think having a coach that wants that for the people around them for themselves, I think that's just like, that's what I see when I look at a resume. [00:54:34] Speaker A: Yeah. How was day one? Can you give us a little, a teaser what to expect or. [00:54:38] Speaker C: Yeah, a lot of running, a lot of Passover, a lot of shooting, you know, just basketball. [00:54:45] Speaker A: The running would have had me passed up. [00:54:46] Speaker C: I know, right? [00:54:48] Speaker A: Day one. [00:54:49] Speaker C: Yeah, day one. But yeah, just like, you know, we want to get out there, we want to play with plays, we want to play physical and we just like, we want to be the more disruptive team. So like on defense, like we're going to be getting in people short. So that's been like a cannabisball identity and we're just going to continue building on that. [00:55:09] Speaker A: Yeah, we talked a bit about the player led segment that happened in November. Were you there? [00:55:13] Speaker C: I wasn't there. I wasn't able to go. [00:55:15] Speaker A: What did you hear about it? And sort of like. Because I remember having Steve on a few weeks back and he was like a lot of players came up, we said we want this to change, we need this and you should expect this in terms of commitment or whatever it is. What changes have you seen maybe already since the Olympics and kind of like what's been this new era for, for the Kennedy Women's National Team? [00:55:36] Speaker C: Yeah, I think definitely changes to the structure and just like the attitude and approach to like what we do. So if we're doing this, like why do we do it? Like how is it helping us? How's it helping, you know, the players? How's it helping the coaches or the staff or whatever? And just being a lot more intentional in that areas. And I think that's brought a lot of focus to, you know, doing things in areas that we actually need to grow in or that, you know, we just need to keep developing in. And even having, like, conversations before the player led meeting, I just knew that, like, people did want to voice their opinions. And just after hearing, like, what some people said, some thoughts and things like that, I just knew that, like, what went on there, like, was really good because people were actually able to express themselves and we could get somewhere with the ideas that we all had instead of just hearing it from, like, a single group. Like, you actually heard it from people who are like, us players. We're directly affected by it, so we have opinions, too. And being able to be in a space where we're heard, I mean, that's really amazing. So I think that is why we see so much change for the better. And I think it only continues to grow from there on. [00:56:48] Speaker A: Yeah. Obviously not the outcome you want in the Olympics. Your first Olympics Games, correct? [00:56:54] Speaker C: Yeah. [00:56:55] Speaker A: What was that whole experience, like, doing it with your brother, too? Yeah, I feel like it was so cool. I remember being in Vegas for when they were facing USA Basketball, and just the way he talked about you was just, like, proud. And the excitement he had that he was going to be able to suit up with you, represent Canada, represent your family. What was that moment like, when. Tell me when you got the call that both of you guys were going to go. [00:57:20] Speaker C: Yeah, I found out first, so I always tell him that I was the Olympian before you, just so you know. But then he literally found out, like, a couple days later, and I had, like, texted him, like, a French flag, and I think it was, like, the locked emoji or something like that. Like, I sent him two emojis, and he's like, what does this mean? And I was like. I was supposed to, like, not tell you, but, like, you know, put the puzzle pieces together. And then when he found out, he sent me the same exact thing. And I literally. I think I threw my phone, and I was just like, like. So that was just, like, really cool. Just to know that, like, we had the opportunity to, like, be there together, compete together, compete with, like, for our country together. That's just like. That's a feeling that you can't mimic. And, you know, having family out there for both of us, to support both of us, and, you know, that's just like, it. I mean, it brings a smile to my face because it's like, I'm Just glad that we could do that for them. I think there's, like, a lot of things that I would like to give back to my family that they've given to me. So I'm hoping that that was a little token just in my appreciation and respect. [00:58:34] Speaker A: I was gonna say, what did it mean to your family? Because if I'm a parent and my two kids are in the Olympics, I want a life. I'm chilling. I'm not doing anything I want, you know? [00:58:44] Speaker C: Yeah. I mean, I hope it's inspirational, if anything. A lot of our family plays basketball, like our siblings and things like that. But even if you don't, like. If you're doing anything else, I hope that the work that we've put in to get to where we were at just gives them more inspiration, more pride, and just more joy and passion when they do the things that they love as well. [00:59:07] Speaker A: Yeah. I was talking to Charles Bediako. I had him on a few weeks back, and I was like, his family might have the most games played, but I feel like you guys rival your whole family. [00:59:17] Speaker C: Yeah. [00:59:17] Speaker A: It's close, huh? [00:59:18] Speaker C: Yeah, I feel like it's a little bit close in that sense. [00:59:21] Speaker A: Someone's got a fact check this let us know what family has the most games played for Canada. Basketball. [00:59:26] Speaker C: Yeah. [00:59:26] Speaker A: Favorite moment from that whole Olympic Games. Did you guys go out to watch me? So you watched other events? [00:59:31] Speaker C: Yeah, we went to go watch other events. I went to the track and field event. Absolutely incredible. I wasn't even in a good seating. I was at, like, the, like, nosebleeds or whatever, and it was amazing. Like, I was so excited. I was locked into. There's, like, three different events going on at a time, and I was, like, locked into all of them. That was just, like, amazing. It's incredible to play, but it's also incredible to see the other athletes play. Like, I got here, too, but, like, so did they. And, like, looking at them, like, you know, just competing for, like, what they stand for and what they believe in, like, it was amazing. So I'm really happy that I got to go to that van. [01:00:11] Speaker A: Did you run into anybody that you're like, damn? [01:00:15] Speaker C: No, not really. We weren't there for that long. Cause obviously we were in Lille, so we were, like, a whiles away before we actually got to Paris. I think I was in the village maybe, like, two days, but, like, not even. It was, like, three hours one day and, like, two the next. But, I mean, I feel like I probably bumped into somebody that was, like, amazing. I mean, how do you not bump into amazing people at the Olympics? So probably everyone that I, like, traded a pin with or, like, just, like, met, I thought that was pretty cool. I think I met some Japanese volleyball players on the men's side, and I was like, I feel like I've seen your highlights come up on my Instagram reel, and I've definitely watched you guys. I know who you guys are. So I thought that was pretty cool. [01:01:01] Speaker A: Nice. I want to talk about your journey getting into basketball. How did it happen? Obviously, your siblings played. Was it a lot of one on ones against the bros? Like, what was that like growing up? [01:01:12] Speaker C: Yeah, definitely a little too young for that. Like, when I was just, like, growing up and stuff like that. But, I mean, my mom just kind of, like, got me into it. Like, took me to a camp, liked the camp. Some other parents were like, yeah, like, your daughter is, like, tall. Like, you know, I think she'd be, like, good at basketball. How about you put her into this or into this thing? And then from there, like, started to get more into, like, the community basketball and then, like, club basketball and obviously traveling, like, here to Toronto to play with, like, Keeners or become one. And then. And, you know, then going to, like, high school and, like, all this stuff. Getting to Gonzaga, I mean, it was kind of just like, stacking up on top of each other. But, yeah, I started off playing tennis, so I don't really know how I transitioned into, like, tennis and basketball. I don't really know. But, I mean, hey, I'll take it. [01:02:04] Speaker A: I was gonna ask, what's the basketball atmosphere like in Alberta? Yeah, I know. I don't want to shade Alberta, but, like, we have a lot of listeners from Alberta. Shout out to Alberta. [01:02:13] Speaker C: I know, right? [01:02:14] Speaker A: What's it like growing up in Alberta? I'll give you guys credit. There's been a lot of talent now coming up. There's been. You're the next wave. We have a lot of other players, too, that I'm like, damn. On high school scene that coming out. What's the atmosphere? What was it like when you were growing up? And then I've seen talent come up. [01:02:28] Speaker C: That's what I was gonna say. I feel like just the basketball atmosphere in Alberta, I just say it's like pure growth. Like, it's like my generation to the next, to the next, to the next. And I think being able to be in my position, have some players that I looked up to, but also be players, be a player that others look up to. I mean, that's just how we continue growing. Like, let's give inspiration to, like, all the younger kids, so, like, they're more invested, and then, you know, everybody, like, really wants to get better. That's how I would describe, like, Alberta basketball, like, continuously growing. And, you know, it just. It. Yeah, it just looks different from, like, other places. Like, I. I went in and said, like. Like, basketball is really it in Alberta. When I was, like, really young, but even when I got older to when I was, like, in junior high and high school, I'm like, Alberta is really, like, trending up and just, like, how passionate people are becoming for the game of basketball. [01:03:23] Speaker A: Where would you rank Alberta right now in terms of the provinces? Because I would say Ontario is number one. [01:03:29] Speaker C: Because you're from Toronto. [01:03:30] Speaker A: No, come on. We just had Sila here, man. Come on. We have a lot of talent coming up. Quebec, number two. I feel like Quebec and Ontario arrival. But where would you feel like Alberta Falls? Would you say number one? No way. You're saying number one. I feel like you guys might be third for me. [01:03:48] Speaker C: I feel like we're a good contender for second. [01:03:52] Speaker A: Okay. [01:03:53] Speaker C: Third is definite. Like, you can't put us any lower than that. Okay, sorry. [01:03:56] Speaker A: So Quebec, you don't feel like it's comp. [01:03:59] Speaker C: It's. No, it's good. I mean, like, if you're gonna say that, like. Like, we're second, then, like, Quebec is, like, still good. You know what I mean? Like, it's not that, like, Quebec sucks. It's like, no, they're still good. We're just, like, you know, better. [01:04:12] Speaker A: What was your recruitment coming out of high school? Because I feel like you. You spent all your high school career in Canada. [01:04:18] Speaker B: Yeah. [01:04:19] Speaker A: What was that like? Did you have any, like, opportunities to go to the States and was that. Did I ever pique your interest? [01:04:25] Speaker C: Yeah, I. I think when I was. When I was maybe, like, 13 or 14, one of my, like, club coaches was like, what do you guys want to do? And I was like, oh, I want to go play college basketball in the States. So I think from then, like, that's where it started, where I was like, you know, aspiring to be able to get to that level. For me, I feel like a lot of my exposure to just, like, schools down in the States was with Team Canada. And then any of my AU stuff that I did over here in Toronto, I'd literally fly over for like, a couple days, like, practice once, and then they're like, okay, we're going to play. And I'm like, okay, sounds good. So I feel like that's what it like came down to. But yeah, I had like a heavy commitment from obviously like Gonzaga and Iowa State and then I had a couple schools more later, but it was really those two that were like my biggest contenders and, and what my decision like finally came down to as well, so. But yeah, I. I don't really know. Like, I just, I played basketball and I got some stakes. [01:05:34] Speaker A: I want to ask you about Gonzaga coming into the picture, but there's been, I feel like a lot of wave of talent going to the States to play basketball. What are your thoughts on that? Is it needed? Is it because, like feel. I, I feel like now they're, they're ranking Canadian talent. I feel like a few years back they weren't really. Now that's true. You just had a got Makir who was ranked. Silas Swords was ranked a year before number four. I feel like if you went to the States, maybe, maybe the rankings would be different. Right. Like, what are your thoughts on. On Canadians going to the States? [01:06:04] Speaker C: I mean, like, in my opinion, it's more like do what you want. Like, if you want to go to the States, like, go to the States. If you want to stay in Canada, stay in Canada. Exposure wise, like, there's still more opportunities because we're growing so much in Canada. I don't think that it makes so much of a difference. It just depends, like, what you want to do. Like, don't go down there because somebody told you to or don't stay in Canada because somebody told you. Sue. Go to the high school that you want to go to because you want to go to it. Like, if your friends are there, go with your friends. Or if you want to try something new and go to the States, like, you know, that's definitely an opportunity. But I don't think basketball needs to sway your decision and like, force you to make a, you know, a decision because of it or a choice because of it. [01:06:50] Speaker A: Yeah, you wouldn't say, like it impacted your recruitment. Right. Because you're still playing competitions in the States, right? [01:06:55] Speaker C: Yeah, I still went to the States a bunch of times. Like, I think my little sister, she's 14 and she's been to. [01:07:00] Speaker A: Well, next one up. [01:07:01] Speaker C: Yeah, okay, next one up. But she's been to like, probably by now more tournaments in the States that than I, I had been to coming to like Ontario and Toronto to go with my AAU teams and she plays with the club team in Alberta. So there's always opportunities to do what you need to do. Yeah. [01:07:22] Speaker A: Yeah. I just wanted to Bring that up, because I know there's a lot of listeners that are wondering, especially if they have kids. Right. What we should do with our kids. Should we take them to the States? I think it's just play it by ear. Right. Whatever works best for you. I think that's the decision that. The feedback I've been getting from. A lot of people talk about Gonzaga. How did they come into the picture, and when did you become sold on them as a school? [01:07:44] Speaker C: Yeah, mostly around, like, grade 10. I feel like that's when Gonzaga came into the picture early. [01:07:51] Speaker A: Okay. [01:07:52] Speaker C: Yeah, just, like, talk. Cause I. I committed at the end of grade 11, so I feel like maybe, like, a year and a half of, like, recruiting and whatnot. But they came into the picture just obviously, like. Like, talking to my coaches and whatnot. Just, like, showing their interests. And then once I got to my junior year, they're like, yeah, like, definitely, we want you. Like, we see you kind of being this player for our system or, like, this. And, yeah, I think just from there, I was able to. I don't even know. Like, it was a hard decision, I'd say, choosing between Gonzaga and Iowa State. I was kind of of torn between the two schools just because there's so many aspects of both that I really loved. So I would say that it really took me down to, like, the last second to choose which one I wanted to go to. I wasn't really, like, swayed or whatnot. I feel like, if anything, the big marker was just being on campus, like, being in Gonzaga, I was there with the team, with the coaches, and it just felt like home to me. And I think that really stuck with me when I was still making my decision. [01:09:01] Speaker A: Went to Gonzaga for five years. I feel like probably the most loyal player. And nil landscape. What are your thoughts on nil? I feel like every player is. I don't know how many players enter the portal on the woman's side, but on the men's side, there was, like, over a thousand. [01:09:15] Speaker C: Yeah, it's probably over a thousand. [01:09:17] Speaker A: A thousand, too. [01:09:18] Speaker C: Yeah, it's a lot. [01:09:19] Speaker A: What are your thoughts on switching schools? I obviously am like, hey, get your bag. You know? [01:09:24] Speaker C: Yeah, but. But, yeah, like, you know, like, get your bag. It's obviously important. It'll help you in the future, you know, like, our society is built on, like, money, so, I mean, it's all right. I just think that there's still an opportunity to get your bag and, like, you know, be in an environment that you want to be in. I feel like some people Just taste the bag. Then put themselves in a school for a whole year, mind you. You're there for like nine, ten months. Nine, ten months in one place that you don't really like. You don't play, you don't like the girls, you don't like the coaches, you don't like the school, you don't like the place. But all the money is gonna make all of that disappear. Like, you know, like, you know how people say money doesn't buy happiness? It's like, you can still get your bag, but basketball consumes so much of your time. And I feel like people are just in the portal to get the money instead of in the portal to actually try and find a home for themselves. Team that can actually get them to where they want to be in life. They're like, oh, I'm like a high paid player, so, like, you should know that I'm good. And it's like, but are you or are you just high paid? So I feel like there's a lot of like, misconstruct. That's my opinion on it. [01:10:40] Speaker A: Like, because I feel like I hear bench players getting paid a million dollars now. [01:10:44] Speaker C: Exactly. Yes. Bench players are getting paid a lot, but they're on the bench and it's like, go. Like, did you go there because. Because you wanted to be there or are you there because of the check? And I mean, there's. Nil is making all of like the transfer portal about money. When the transfer portal is really about basketball. Like, it's about finding your place. And like, then, Then you see girls transferring like three, four times out of, like, schools. And it's like, this is my, like, fifth school that I'm going to and I'm like this girl. Stop, stop. Like you need to. No, I mean, obviously it doesn't work for some people, but like, come on. Yeah, that's just my opinion on it. I. I found my home and I'm very grateful and lucky that I did for sure. And that's hopefully what I wish for people to do when they enter the transfer portal to find somewhere that's better than where they left. [01:11:40] Speaker A: Yeah. Found your home, I would say that's very correct. Let me go through just some of the records you broke and now you now hold at Gonzaga. Most career points in Gonzaga basketball history, over 2,000, 2,385, I believe. Most career rebounds, most career field goals made, best career field goal percentage. I might get tired if I read the rest out. [01:12:03] Speaker C: Yeah, I think we just stopped there. [01:12:05] Speaker A: Yeah, stop there. [01:12:06] Speaker B: Just. [01:12:06] Speaker C: Just Go on the Go Zags website. [01:12:08] Speaker A: Go on the Go Zag. Go check it out. Single season record in points. Single season record and rebounds. Single season record in field goals. First player in West Coast Conference history to reach 2000 points and 1000 rebounds. I can go on. There's, like, still a bunch of stuff that I'm leaving off the list. I feel like this historic run that you had at Gonzaga. How would you describe your five years there? [01:12:32] Speaker C: Transformative. Like, if you told me I'd do all of that stuff in my freshman year, I probably would have said, you're lying. And I would have got in the transfer portal because I thought. Would have thought. You're crazy. I'm like, that's bad juju on my career. Stop doing this to me. I'm, like, leaving. But, like, after being through it all, I mean, I just, like, I see. I don't even have any words for it. You can't make up the progress that I've been through and that I've gone through with the different teams, the different coaches and whatnot, and just being able to see how much I've developed. I couldn't be more grateful for it. So I'm just. That whole experience was transformative, both on the court and off the court. And, I mean, I'm the person I am today because of that. So I give, like, a lot of credit to Gonzaga for being a place that really cultivated me into something, someone that I can be proud of. [01:13:25] Speaker A: Favorite moment. You would say that out of your five years there. [01:13:29] Speaker C: Probably playing Utah in the second round of the NCAA at home because we got, like, a bid that was, like, electric. Like, I couldn't hear my thoughts in that gym. I was like, like, okay, Spokane. And we got, like, all the old people in our crowd, and I'm like, I knew you guys could get up and cheer. [01:13:47] Speaker A: Oh, Spokane is. I feel like. I'm guessing you know Ryan, too. [01:13:52] Speaker C: Yeah. [01:13:52] Speaker A: Pretty well. [01:13:53] Speaker C: Yeah, I know Ryan well. I went to school with Andrew, too. [01:13:56] Speaker A: Ranger, too. [01:13:56] Speaker C: Yeah, he went there. And Chet. [01:13:58] Speaker A: Oh, you said you've been there. Yeah. [01:14:00] Speaker C: I'm so good. [01:14:01] Speaker A: Yeah. [01:14:01] Speaker C: Five years. [01:14:01] Speaker A: Five years. Yeah. [01:14:02] Speaker C: Five years. [01:14:03] Speaker A: I want to ask you about Ryan. He's going through the draft process right now. What are your thoughts on him as a player? I was. I was. Actually interviewed him a few weeks back. [01:14:09] Speaker C: Yeah. [01:14:10] Speaker A: At the combine. And. And I feel like he's a steal. I'm guessing you probably watched him up close and a lot of stuff you do. He did. [01:14:17] Speaker C: I think so, too. I think he's a Great playmaker. And I think he works like, just like, I think he can work well in different systems and with different players. Like, I think he can create for a lot of people and also for himself too. He obviously, like, when you watch him like in college, he just looks and plays a little bit different than everybody else. And I think that's just a testament to his work and his effort. And I think just putting him in like, you know, the NBA combine and just this environment of like players going, trying to get to like the next level. Like he's just going to continue to rise to the occasion. So I mean like, you can just watch him and like, you don't even have to listen to what I say. Just watch him. That's all I have to say. [01:15:01] Speaker A: Scouts, if you're listening, just watch him play. I think he's working out for like 17 years. Teams. [01:15:06] Speaker C: Yeah. [01:15:06] Speaker A: So he's going through the entire process. I'm hoping to hear his name called. I feel like he deserves it. So, yes, we'll be exciting to see what happens with Ryan. Even if not, I feel like he's going to have an amazing career. What can we expect from this FIBA Americup team? And just obviously just first day at camp. But what's a. What's the energy you're feeling and what do you expect from this team? [01:15:29] Speaker C: Yeah, if anything, I just feel, I think I said it before, but like that relentlessness. I think people really want to go out there and just show out for each other and I think that's really gonna. You'll see that on our defense, you'll see that in our pace, you'll see that on the offense, you'll see that in our rebounding. And I think as we continue to go through camp, build on each other and with each other, then we, we just get to see that like become embodied and whatnot. So, yeah, that's what I really see from this team, especially in day one. And maybe that changes. Like, maybe we're not the team that I'm saying we are now in day eight. But I still think that we're on a good path if we at least start this way. [01:16:15] Speaker A: Yeah, I'm looking at the roster now. How many players have you played with before on this roster? [01:16:21] Speaker C: I think everybody. [01:16:23] Speaker A: Yeah. [01:16:24] Speaker C: Yeah, everybody. [01:16:25] Speaker A: You're a real vet. [01:16:27] Speaker C: I guess so. I'm like, I've like been here for just like. I think this is my fourth year. [01:16:32] Speaker A: I was going to ask, how many times have you. When was the first time Canada called you to play? [01:16:36] Speaker C: It was After I think the last Global Jam, that was the first ever time. Yeah, like after that summer or after Global Jam, they had a camp in New York and they brought me to that. I think I was supposed to play like three on three, but they brought me to the senior team camp and. [01:16:52] Speaker A: Said 3 out 3 would be interesting. [01:16:53] Speaker C: Yeah, 3v3 would have been cool. I think they were in England. They won gold still. So, like, let's go, girl. [01:17:01] Speaker A: 3V3 team, I feel like, doesn't get enough recognition. [01:17:03] Speaker C: They. [01:17:04] Speaker A: They're killing it. [01:17:06] Speaker C: You're telling me literally somebody needs to like frame that up or something like that and put it in their locker room. Cuz like, they deserve to see that every single day just so that they can work harder and prove people more wrong by the minute. [01:17:21] Speaker A: Hold on. Please schedule an interview with the 3v3 team. We'll set that up soon. [01:17:25] Speaker C: Yeah, but. Yeah, what was I talking about? What were we talking about? [01:17:31] Speaker A: This is about first time playing Cannibal. You didn't play any age group stuff. [01:17:33] Speaker C: I did play age group stuff, but not with the senior team is what I'm saying. Yeah, but this is. Oh, with the age groups. [01:17:39] Speaker A: Yeah. What was the first time they ever called you? [01:17:41] Speaker C: When I was 13, I went to a camp. [01:17:43] Speaker A: So, like, what was that experience? You remember? [01:17:45] Speaker C: First time I was so nervous. I was like, what am I doing here? Are you guys crazy? But I took a lot out of it. And honestly, being at that camp, I saw basketball like, in a different way than when I just like played in junior high and things like that. So I go back to junior high and I'm like, you know, I'm like, when do I get to go back to camp? Like, I want to go back to camp already just because I just really attracted to that style of basketball and this style of basketball that we play. So, yeah, it was just like, good fit. [01:18:14] Speaker A: Yeah, we've been going over time. I have two questions for you before we wrap up. You talked about. I just feel like the excitement just hearing you talk about playing for Canada. Like, what does it mean for you just to put on the jersey, represent your family's name, and just get to represent Canada on the world stage. [01:18:31] Speaker C: Yeah, I mean, it never gets old just being able to say that, like, I can do something like that. I think that's the greatest honor. Like, some people may not. And if anything, I get to play for those people. You know, I get to play for their passion. I get to play for my family. You know, there's a lot of things that Stand behind, like, the jersey and the number and the name on the front and the name on the back. And I think that's just something that I embody, and it just makes me more excited to be able to do that in the first place and, you know, represent Canada at many different tournaments and competitions and levels. [01:19:07] Speaker A: Yeah. Yvonne representing Canada at the FIBA America cup, which is set to take place from June 28 to July 6. Tell me now, once FIBA America cup ends, what's that gonna look like for you? [01:19:21] Speaker C: Um, just more basketball. I've got Global Jam coming up later here in Toronto, so that'll be super exciting to come back, obviously, and train and compete. It'll be my second time with that team, so. Yeah, I can't wait for that. [01:19:34] Speaker A: I'm forgetting you're still young. [01:19:36] Speaker C: That's why you call me a vet. And I'm like, that's weird. There are some vets on that team. I'm not one of them. Yes. Young vet, newbie vet. [01:19:46] Speaker A: Yeah. Ivan, Ijum, I can't thank you enough for taking the time and spending time with me in the studio. What are you thoughts on the studio? I was asking Silas about this. [01:19:54] Speaker C: It's good. It's nice and cozy. I like it in here. It's a vibe. I'm a little light on there. [01:20:00] Speaker A: Yeah. [01:20:00] Speaker C: Yeah. [01:20:01] Speaker A: People. Hey, tap in. Can't thank you enough for again for joining the podcast. Can I ask about the Feba America from June 28th to July 6th? Like she mentioned, Global Jam 2. August 13th to 17th. You can get your tickets at Global Jam CA. That's Global without the A. Do you know why they do that? [01:20:20] Speaker C: I. I'm not a part of that team. Sorry. [01:20:23] Speaker A: Still amazing event. I was there last time and. And I think it's just amazing that we get to watch homegrown talent playing Canada. When was the last time you played at home? Yeah. And you want to watch her again. Tap in. [01:20:39] Speaker C: All of us. You want to watch all of us. [01:20:41] Speaker A: Can't thank you enough for joining the podcast. Again. This has been the Canadian Basketball show, your go to spot for the latest news stories and analysis on Canadian basketball. I've been your host, Lee Ben Osman.