Canisius College assistant men's basketball coach Lazare Adingono received his American citizenship Thursday morning at a swearing-in ceremony held in Buffalo. Adingono, was born and grew up in Cameroon and came to the United States to play basketball on a scholarship at Rhode Island.

"This is a big day for me and my family," Adingono said. "America is the land of immigrants and is home to tremendous opportunity. I couldn't be any prouder or happier to be an American citizen."

Adingono was sworn in after taking an oath of allegiance. The ceremony featured more than 70 people from 86 different countries.

Adingono will join the Canisius College men's basketball team on the road this weekend as the Golden Griffins open MAAC play at Manhattan and Saint Peter's. The Griffs are currently 3-3 and are riding the program's first winning streak since the 2006-07 season.