Last night (April 5), the Kentucky Wildcats beat out the Wisconsin Badgers in a Final Four game decided by a late game-winning 3-pointer sunk by Freshman guard Aaron Harrison. Following their win, Toronto emcee Drake joined the team in the locker room to celebrate the victory and the team’s moving forward into the program’s ninth national title game.
“That’s great,” Andrew Harrison, who passed the ball to twin brother Aaron for the game-winner, said of Drake’s support. “He just told us to stay confident, and it’s on us now. Just keep playing and don’t be satisfied, so that was exciting for all of us.”
“It’s a blessing to play for Kentucky because we have so many fans, and fans like Drake,” another Freshman Wildcat, Dominique Hawkins said. “He told us to enjoy the moment and get what you want.”
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After addressing the team in the locker room, Drake was asked how long he’s been a fan of the team. “Always,” he said in stride.
Another Vine user posted footage of Drake shaking hands with and congratulating Wildcats players.
The rapper’s sports team allegiances also includes a close relationship with Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel and a position as team ambassador for the NBA’s Toronto Raptors.
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Last year, Drake was denied entry to the Miami Heat’s post-victory locker room celebration following the team’s NBA Finals win over the San Antonio Spurs. Following the game, Drake was filmed by an ESPN affiliate trying to gain access before being told that the locker room as a “media only” zone.
In another Kentucky Wildcats locker room celebration, rapper Jay Z incurred a $50,000 fine in 2011 on behalf of the New Jersey Nets for visiting players after clinching a Final Four appearance. Given his affiliation with the professional organization, Jay Z was technically barred from contacting collegiate athletes prior to draft eligibility. While no foul play was cited, the rapper’s interaction with team players was cause enough for the fine.
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