Several kids from various sports camps sat in the middle of the gym and  cheered for him when he made his entry. After a short speech and photo session with  the kids in the gym, he moved to the outdoor court, where audiences witnessed  Thompson being awarded the key to the city of Brampton by Councillor Gurpreet Dhillon.

“Be a part of something special. I didn’t know what I wanted to be. I knew I loved basketball but I never thought I’d make it to the NBA or play at the Division 1 level.” He thanked his mother and told her he loved her.

“Don’t let anyone tell you what you can’t do,” he continued. “Especially being Canadian and trying to play basketball at the highest level, very few were able to do it before us. Most people would tell us that you’re crazy, you can’t play (in the NCAA).”

“What’s most important for me is to be able to create opportunities for the next generation,” he said, looking out at the kids in the crowd. “That’s my purpose. I think that’s why the Lord has blessed me with this talent, is to bless others.”