If you share this passion and would like to contribute your ideas and insights to our blog family, please contact us at [email protected]! #WeTheNorth
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Raptors' inaugural game?
On November 3, 1995, the Raptors played their first regular season against the New Jersey Nets at the SkyDome. Alvin Robertson scored the first points in franchise lore. The Raptors defeated Nets in 94-79. Contributions from Damon Stoudamire (10 and 10 assists), as well as Robertson (30 pts) were key.
What is the longest time that the Raptors have been together?
Toronto Raptors, an NBA team located in Toronto (Ontario), is home to the Toronto Raptors. The Raptors, along the Vancouver Grizzlies, joined the NBA in 1995 as an expansion team. The Grizzlies relocated to Memphis, Tennessee, in 2001-02, making the Raptors the only Canadian-based team in the NBA.
Toronto Raptors are based at Scotiabank Arena, where they play their home games. The Maple Leafs, the city’s NHL team, also use the arena. The Raptors have made 13 appearances in the NBA playoffs since their inception. Most recently, they lost 6 games against the Philadelphia 76ers during the first round in 2021.
In 1999-2000, the Raptors qualified for their first playoff appearance. Unfortunately, they were swept by division rivals New York Knicks in the first round of the playoffs.
The fans were few and far between, and the team wasn't too exciting either. There wasn't much to cheer for, or even watch, and nobody knew why. After years of being mediocre, the team made a decision to improve its image and make it more appealing to the general public.
The team hired an agency to create a marketing strategy that would bring them national fame in 2001. Their slogan was "Hear Us Roar!"
They used the slogan because the team was in financial trouble at the time and wanted to make sure that everyone knew that they were selling out. All they needed was a catchy phrase and a great logo to go along with it. This is where creativity shines through. They combined "hear me roar" and "never forget to die", a popular saying. This became Toronto Raptors' official motto.
What does "We The North” mean?
The Toronto Raptors have used the phrase "We The North", also known by We The North Nation as an anthem. It was composed by Drake and Noah "40" Shebib.
Drake wrote the song at his Toronto apartment with a friend. He completed his album Take Care with Kanye West. Drake decided to make lyrics about his hometown while there. Drake wanted it to be universally applicable. The song speaks about unity and pride as well as hope.
Drake began work on the melody of We The North's single "Nice For What" when he went to London to film the video. He recorded the instrumental version in just one take.
Drake was writing the lyrics to the song, but 40 came up with the chorus. Drake liked the hook so much that he asked 40 to record it. They worked together to create the final product.
The official music video to "We The North Anthem", was released October 5, 2018. The video featured Shawn Mendes from Canada, who performed with Drake and other musicians.
Statistics
- As predicted by analysts, the team easily secured a berth in the 2001 NBA playoffs with a franchise-high 47 wins. (en.wikipedia.org)
- This improved during the 2006–07 regular season to an average of 18,258 fans (13th in the league), 92.2 percent capacity at the Air Canada Centre. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Thomas named Raptors' GM NBA superstar to have 10% stake in the new franchise". (en.wikipedia.org)
- In November of the 1996–97 season, Bitove sold his ownership interest in the team to Slaight for $65 million after Slaight had activated a shotgun clause in their partnership agreement,[32][33] giving Slaight 79 percent control of the team, [34] (en.wikipedia.org)
- Thomas named Raptors' GM NBA superstar to have 10% stake in the new franchise". (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
nba.com/raptors
basketball-reference.com
raptorshq.com
- Tip in, Toronto Raptors' Game: Not Just Any Williams
- Raptors HQ, a Toronto Raptors community
bleacherreport.com
How To
Tips for where to eat in Toronto before the Toronto Raptors' Game at Scotiabank Arena
The best way to eat before a game is to avoid overeating. You will find plenty of food in the arena, so if hunger strikes after arriving, you can get some.
Concessions and stands are available along the concourse. Some places specialize in beer, while others serve hot dogs, pizza, burgers, and more.
One of the most popular options is the concession stand that serves nachos. These cheesy snacks contain toppings such as jalapenos, cheese sauce, sour cream, and bacon bits.
You could also purchase tickets to a party before the game. Many restaurants host these events where guests can enjoy food and drinks before entering the arena.
A barbeque joint near the arena offers a great opportunity to sample the local cuisine. There are pulled pork sandwiches, chicken wings and ribs on the menu.
You will find many fast food outlets nearby, including Subway and Tim Hortons.
There are many healthy options for those who don't like greasy food. Freshii is one of the most popular places. This chain offers fresh salads and wraps made from organic ingredients.
You can also choose from juice bars or sushi bars.
There are many coffee shops and frozen yogurt parlours located just across the street, if you want to grab something to eat instead of a cup of coffee.
No matter what you're craving, there are plenty of places to eat before and during the Toronto Raptors game. Make sure to leave yourself enough time to get through security and find your seat!
Have fun cheering for your home team! And thanks for reading! Go Raptors Enjoy the game!
Resources:
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