The UNBC Timberwolves went south of the border to find basketball forward Josh Gillespie, who can play any position, at any time, in any situation, and he’s ready to bring his dynamic, well-rounded game to the Canada West conference.
A Northwest Athletic Conference All-Star this past season with Walla Walla Community College, Gillespie has three years of eligibility remaining at the U SPORTS level. Always looking to grow his game and elevate himself to take on all challenges, the six-foot-four forward identified the highest level of Canadian university basketball as an ideal step in his hardcourt career.
“This feels amazing,” said the Meridian, Idaho native. “Having coach Todd (Jordan) and coach Aaron (Brouwer) reach out to me and show interest. They drove all the way to my game in Washington to watch me play.
“Being able to go throughout Canada and travel around and see the scenery, while also playing at a high level, playing the sport I love, and the sport I have been playing since I was five years old - coach Todd has been taking me through the ins and the outs of his offense and defense, and everything he is showing me, I love.”
Playing for Garden Valley High School, Gillespie won a Idaho state championship in 2021. He then made an immediate impact at Walla Walla in his freshman season in 2021-2022, averaging 15.5 points and 5.9 rebounds per game.
In 2022-2023, he earned a NWAC Second Team All-Conference honour for his 17.6 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 1.8 APG, and 1.6 SPG season. Gillespie is confident that his two years of college basketball will be crucial in a smooth transition to the Canada West level.
“Playing at Walla Walla the last two years has really opened my eyes to how fast-paced and physical the game is at the next level, and how mentally sharp you have to be throughout the season.”
Jordan identified Gillespie early in the recruiting process, acknowledging his winning pedigree, and his hunger to keep growing and says his overall game will be a major asset to the T-wolves next season.
“Josh is a winner,” said Jordan. “He has a history of winning as a state champion in Idaho, and also with a successful junior college team at Walla Walla. Josh will bring some inside scoring touch to our lineup and he is an efficient scorer, shooting almost 60 percent from the field last season. He will also help us on the glass as he averaged eight rebounds a game last season.”
Gillespie will enroll UNBC’s business program and will join his new Timberwolves teammates for training camp in Prince George in August.
