The University of Northern British Columbia Timberwolves men's basketball team has added some all-star talent to its backcourt.
While playing for Grande Prairie Regional College, six-foot-three guard Payton Tirrell was named to the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference All-Star in 2018-19.
After a year away from the game, the native of Woodinville, Washington, knew he wanted to return to the court for a final season and play at the highest level in Canadian university sport.
"The biggest thing for me was where could I find myself a spot where I fit in?," Tirrell said. "Where is there a coach who is going to coach me hard, but at the same time, let me be me. Ultimately, it led me here, so I am grateful."
During his all-star season at GPRC, he averaged 16.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game and finished in the top 10 in ACAC scoring and top 15 in rebounding, assists, and steals. He also averaged 39.6 per cent accuracy from beyond the three-point line.
"My best attribute is passing," Tirrell said. "I am a bigger guard so I can see over the defense, and I am looking to get everyone involved.
"I'm known for a flashy pass or two. A no-look or alley-oop, just stuff to get people hyped and get the crowd involved. I am pretty well-known for my scoring ability, especially from three. I shoot from three at a high level.
"I am going to read the game, and if I am not shooting well that night and somebody else is, we are going to get them the ball."
Following the 2019-2020 campaign, the Timberwolves graduated swing guards Saje Gosal and Anthony Hokanson. Timberwolves coach Todd Jordan saw an opportunity to bolster his lineup with Tirrell..
"He really understands the game and does a lot of things right," Jordan said.
Tirrell will join a backcourt that has 2020 Canada West leading scorer Tyrell Laing and impact guard Vova Pluzhnikov,.
