Drills and thrills to kick off the 2014 Bay Street Hoops charity basketball tournament

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With kids and youth from KidSport and Special Olympics Ontario getting ready to play some hoops, Raptors star Jonas Valanciunas dropped by to kick off the event in style. After some initial group shots (done with more enthusiasm than I’ve seen at many other events), it was time to hit the courts for some ball-handling and dribbling drills. Yes, we could even see Jonas blocking some of the lay-ups (or trying to). Soon the close-to-one-hour practice came to an end and Jonas had to leave – but not before signing jerseys, hats and posters.

A big thank-you to Jonas Valanciunas for coming out to get the tournament going – and to Nav Bhatia from Mississauga Hyundai Superstore for sponsoring Jonas’ appearance.

Some lay-up drills before the big event.

Jonas with athletes from KidSport.

Jonas with athletes from Special Olympics Ontario.

Athletes from KidSport and Special Olympics Ontario with Jonas.

Happy 20th anniversary: Here’s to a great 2014 Bay Street Hoops tournament.

It’s time for lay-up drills – great block Jonas!

Taje Mohabir, Chair of Bay Street Hoops; Nav Bhatia of Mississauga Hyundai Superstore (and sponsor of kick-off event); Raptors Jonas Valanciunas; David Carr-Harris, KidSport.