On Oct. 4, York announced its multi-year partnership with the former NBA World Champions, the Toronto Raptors. According to the university’s website, the partnership aims to bring networking opportunities and career developments to students in the world of sports, entertainment, and media.
In an interview with Excalibur, Assistant Vice-President in Global Engagement and Partnerships, Vinitha Gengatharan, shares her thoughts on the partnership with the Raptors: “The Toronto Raptors approached [the university] because of York’s diversity and values around inclusivity, sustainability, access, and its international student population [resonates] with their own goals and how diverse the Raptors’ fanbase is.”
She also adds that “Masai Ujiri’s focus on engaging with Africa” was a reason for the partnership. It would also be “a good fit for the international students and current students,” as they can gain access to the Raptors’ network and their partners. This aims to bring career opportunities from the Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) partnership to the York student body.
Gengatharan also expresses York’s intent to engage with the Giants of Africa Foundation, founded by Masai Ujiri. Ujiri is the first and only African General Manager of an NBA team. Masai also led the Raptors to their NBA championship in 2019, making it the first time a team from outside of the U.S. won a championship.
Gengatharan further states that the university will be hosting a “career event with MLSE” and is looking to hold “a big conference around basketball and sports.”
She shares her hopes for this partnership: “I think over time both parties [will] benefit from not only the brand, but tangibly. I hope our students are able to access the broader network of MLSE.”
The York-Raptors partnership represents a pivotal opportunity for York students, allowing them access to hands-on experiences and insights from industry leaders in sports and beyond.
By collaborating with MLSE and potentially the Giants of Africa Foundation, the university is positioning its students to benefit from unique networking, career development, and mentorship opportunities that align with York’s commitment to inclusivity and global engagement.
As this partnership unfolds, it is expected to strengthen York’s standing as a leader in sports and entertainment education, opening new doors for students and furthering the Raptors’ mission to make a positive impact both locally and globally.
