Kelly Olynyk has been with Canada Basketball for many years, and is excited to get more international games under his belt.

Q: What are you looking to accomplish this summer?

Going over there, as a team, getting some experience. Build on coming together, chemistry, build that chemistry as much as we can.

Q: Is growing organically an advantage?

We’re just trying to come together as a team, build chemistry, putting in a system where we’re not worried about wins and losses, as much as getting experience and trying to get better. I think we definitely have a better situation. It’s a win-win situation. [Playing in the World Championships] would have been great, but with the challenge ahead of us, we expect to tackle it.

Q: It gets hostile internationally, what are your thoughts on that?

I’ve played a lot of international basketball in the last 5-6 years. That’s part of the game. As a competitor, you try to feed off that and silence that. There’s nothing better than going with a group of twelve guys, and eight staff members, twenty people rolling into a country and beating them on their home court. That’s something we take pride in.

Q: What’s the identity of this team?

Play together, play hard, play smart.

Q: What is it like having your dad as a coach?

He definitely offers me some advice. I’ve learned almost everything I know from him, so he’s definitely done his part in me being who I am, and making me the player I am.

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