Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Peter Fassbender has issued the following statement:

“The Province of B.C. is excited with the news that Vancouver will host National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division I men’s and women’s basketball tournaments starting in 2017, during the American Thanksgiving holiday week.

“This will be a great opportunity to showcase our wonderful province, while generating additional interest in basketball for fans of all ages. Many Canadians grow up dreaming of playing on the national team or playing professionally, and that journey traditionally begins at a major college or university basketball program.

“By showcasing some of the best emerging basketball talents in North America, it is expected that this event will increase participation rates in sport throughout the province.

“These tournaments, and the 16 teams competing, will bring fans to British Columbia from all over North America and will positively benefit the province’s economy. The excitement this annual sporting competition will generate for Vancouver and Lower Mainland residents and visitors‎ alike is an event the Province of British Columbia welcomes and looks forward to.”

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