No, eighth-ranked Gonzaga does not feature Thor in its starting lineup. The flowing locks of junior forward Kelly Olynyk only makes it appear that way.
Olynyk has been a star for the Bulldogs this season, averaging 18.3 PPG and 6.8 RPG while shooting 80.5% from the free throw line. Yet mention of him – most notably on SportsCenter – usually comes with an added comment about his hair.
Kelly Olynyk makes basketball look as easy as his hair looks flowing.
— Will’s WCC Blog (@WillsWCCblog) January 18, 2013
Kelly Olynyk could legitimately play for the Zag Women. He’s got the name and hair and pecs.
— Shawn Wheeler (@zag08) January 18, 2013
Kelly olynyk needs facial hair. He looks like a ugly girl more than a guy.
— Will Harmon (@willharmon8) January 11, 2013
While the appearance of Olynyk’s hairstyle is questionable, the reason why he’s growing it out is not.
“I just grew it at the start, but I think I’m going to cut it for cancer patients, maybe Locks of Love,” he told The Spokesman-Review in November. “I’m still looking into it. I know it has to be pretty long.”
As long as he keeps on playing a big role in Gonzaga’s best start to a season ever, Olynyk can do whatever he wants with his hair.
