Photo courtesy of LBSU volleyball player Ashley Murray.
Long Beach State (LBSU) was graced with a surprise visit by rap superstar Drake last night, who showed up to support his goddaughter at her volleyball game in the Walter Pyramid. His attendance proved to be good luck, as the powerful Beach women beat their opponent Loyola Marymount University 3-0.
Apparently, Drake, dressed casually in a full blue sweatsuit, not only showed up to support his goddaughter Ashley Murray—a 6-foot-2-inch middle blocker and Cal State Long Beach junior—but he also shared some words with the team.
“There’s nothing more powerful than when someone shares their blessings,” Murray said in an Instagram post after the game. “When they show up for you, you show out for them. Thank you for coming to support me and my team. Love you always. Best Godfather ever.”
Photo courtesy of LBSU volleyball player Ashley Anselmo via Instagram.
Drake’s presence not only seemed to give the gals that extra push but once word got around on social media that he was in town, the crowd at the Pyramid swelled to 1,141 people and fostered a great atmosphere during the final set, according to athletics officials.
What??? Drake!!!! At the CSULB volleyball game!! #Drake pic.twitter.com/zMewOYxSr4
— SakuraSS (@Sakoura5) September 9, 2016
“What was neat, is a lot of people who don’t come to games came, and they were quiet, but then they looked and went `Whoa, this is pretty good,” stated LBSU head coach Brian Gimmillaro of the crowd. “They started applauding and getting into it, and you could see that unravel.”
Musician Drake was spotted at Walter Pyramid during the volleyball game Friday. #LBSU #Drake #49erNow pic.twitter.com/ApJWllsLAB
— Daily 49er Sports (@49erSports) September 9, 2016
The Beach ended up winning the Lions in a 25-17, 27-25, 25-13 sweep and Drake ended up leaving the Pyramid escorted by police, trailed by cell phone-carrying fans hoping to capture the moment.
@Drake showed up to @CSULB to watch his Goddaughter Ashely Murray play volleyball and this happened….#Drake pic.twitter.com/kOkyERiIB4
— Fernando Ramirez (@RealFRamirez) September 9, 2016