LAS VEGAS – Parlez-vous Francais? A few of the Toronto Raptors do and they’ll get the chance to speak French when the team heads to Laval University in Quebec City for training camp this fall.
After many years holding camp in Vancouver, and several exhibition games in Montreal, the NBA champions decided to head to historic Quebec City for the first time.
“As Canada’s team, we felt it was important to go out and visit somewhere we’ve never been before,” Raptors head coach Nick Nurse said in a statement. “We’re really looking forward to taking advantage of the excellent facilities at Laval, which we know is one of Canada’s great sporting schools, and to soaking in the incredible old-world atmosphere of Quebec.”
Laval athletic director Julie Dionne was thrilled with the decision.
“For the advancement of basketball in Quebec City, it is extraordinary that the Toronto Raptors will come to play in our high-quality facilities, which will benefit from this important showcase. We cannot wait to welcome the entire organization here, Dionne said.
Reigning NBA most improved player Pascal Siakam, centre Serge Ibaka and G League MVP Chris Boucher, a Montreal native, all speak French.
After media day in Toronto on Sept. 28, the team will head to Quebec. An open practice will be held on Oct. 3.
This will be the 12th time the Raptors have held training camp outside of Ontario. With Vancouver, Victoria, Halifax, Italy and Buffalo being the previous stops.
Toronto will then head to Japan for a pair of pre-season games against the Houston Rockets on Oct. 8 and Oct. 10 in Tokyo.
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