James Harden EJECTED for hitting Royce O'Neale in the midsection | NBA on ESPN

By Jordan Ketler April 21, 2023 29 mins read 31550 Views

We are passionate about the Raptors, and stand by our team no matter what. We bring you always the most reliable and up-to-date content on all matters related to the Toronto Raptors. Our goal is to unite devoted fans and give them a place to express their drive and appreciation for the Raptors.

At Raptors Rumors we believe in the values of hard work, dedication and loyalty exemplified by Masai Ujiri, current GM of the Toronto Raptors. He has been responsible for orchestrating an unprecedented championship culture in Toronto, with every day bringing us closer towards achieving another championship banner in Scotiabank Arena's lore.

If you’re moved by basketball or have something insightful or inspiring to share about this esteemed franchise, reach out at "[email protected]", as we’re always looking for talented individuals to contribute. We hope that you come along with us across this unique journey as “We The North” strive for greatness!

James Harden EJECTED for hitting Royce O'Neale in the midsection | NBA on ESPN

Frequently Asked Questions

How was the first year of existence for the Toronto Raptors?

The Toronto Raptors first season in the NBA proved to be difficult. Brendan Malone, who was then hired by Isiah as GM, became the head coach for the Raptors' 1995 franchise. They soon acquired many talented players through the draft and through trades. They beat the Chicago Bulls once, but overall finished with a 21 - 61 win-loss record.

Toronto drafted Marcus Camby in 1996. He was named Rookie of Year and was part of the starting lineup with Alvin Williams as point guard. Damon Stoudamire was traded later in 1997. Toronto made more roster changes over the years to ensure future success.

Despite all these changes, the team has struggles in its first few seasons of the NBA. Toronto made its first playoff appearance in 2000 after years of rebuilding and transition. However, it lost the series to New York Knicks.

Was Vancouver home to an NBA team?

No, Vancouver does not have an NBA team. The Vancouver Grizzlies played in Vancouver from 1995-2001. The team relocated to Memphis Tennessee in 2001. Vancouver's basketball fans now support the Toronto Raptors. They are the closest NBA franchise to the city. Other professional basketball teams also play in the Greater Vancouver Area such as the BC Tigers, Canadian Elite Basketball League, and Vancouver Volcanoes, International Basketball League. A number of amateur and semiprofessional teams participate in various local leagues.

Aside from playing basketball, there are many other recreational outlets for fans in Vancouver to connect with their favourite sport. The Vancouver Grizzlies Alumni Association, for example, is a group that aims to bring back former players and increase awareness about basketball in British Columbia. This association organizes events like viewing parties for Raptors games or clinics to help young athletes develop their game.

The city's love of basketball has not decreased since the departures of the Grizzlies. And it continues to be a supportive community in numerous ways. Vancouverites are still passionate about basketball and continue to support the many initiatives of former players and other organizations that promote basketball in the city.

What does "We The North" mean?

The Toronto Raptors are known for their anthem, "We The North," also known to as We The North Nation. It was written by Drake and Noah Shebib, a producer.

Drake wrote the song at his Toronto apartment with a friend. He recorded Take Care with KanyeWest, another artist. Drake decided to make lyrics about his hometown while there. He wanted it to be something that could represent all Canadians. It is about unity, pride, hope.

Drake started working on the melody for We The North when he travelled to London to film the video of his single "Nice For What." He recorded the instrumental version of the song in one take.

Drake was working on the lyrics, and 40 came up the chorus. Drake liked the hook so much that he asked 40 to record it. Together, they worked to create the final product.

The official music clip for "We The North Anthem", released on October 5, 2018, was made public. It featured Shawn Mendes, Canadian singer-songwriter and Drake performing with other musicians.

How many years have the Raptors been together as a team?

Toronto Raptors is an NBA basketball franchise. In 1995, the NBA added the Raptors to its expansion roster along with the Vancouver Grizzlies. The Raptors are the only Canadian-based NBA basketball team.

Toronto Raptors: The Raptors play their home games in Scotiabank Arena. The Maple Leafs, a city's NHL club, also uses the arena. Since their inception, the Raptors have been in the NBA playoffs 13 different times. They lost 6 games to Philadelphia 76ers in round one of the playoffs in 2021.

In 1999-2000 the Raptors reached their first playoff appearance. The Raptors were swept in round one by New York Knicks, their division rivals.

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. The team finally decided to change their image after years of mediocrity and made every effort to appeal to the public.

In 2001, the team hired a professional advertising agency to help develop a marketing strategy that would make them famous in national markets. The team came up with a slogan called "Hear us Roar!"

The slogan was used to promote the fact the games were sold out. The only thing they needed was a catchy phrase, and a great logo. This is where agency's creative genius shines. They combined the popular phrase "hear our roar" with "never say die". This became the Toronto Raptors' official motto.

How did the Toronto Raptors fare after Kawhi Leonard's departure?

The Toronto Raptors had a great year. The Raptors won 53 playoff games in the 2020 season. All-Star point guard Kyle Lowry was the key to the team's success. He averaged 19.7 points and 7.5 assists per game. Pascal Siakam joined Lowry as a fellow All-Star forward. Siakam averaged 22.9 point and 8.3 boards per game. Norman Powell and Fred VanVleet made significant contributions for the Raptors. The team's talent, depth, and versatility helped them overcome injuries to Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka.

The team was led and managed by Nick Nurse, Coach of the Year, and Pascal Siakam, All-NBA Second Teamer. . Siakam rose to prominence by scoring an average of nearly 20+ points per contest. Coach Nurse made bold strategic choices that paid off. Kyle Lowry was selected to the 2020 NBA All-Star Team, his sixth consecutive selection.

The playoffs started later than usual this season, in August at the "Bubble", Bay Lake, Florida near Orlando. The Raptors were defeated by the Brooklyn Nets, winning 4-0. They went down 0-2 against the Boston Celtics in the next round, but OG Anunoby hit a buzzer-beater to win Toronto the third game. The series went on to seven games before Boston won.

Why are the Toronto Raptors called Raptors?

The NBA's expansion in Canada led to the 1995 founding of Toronto Raptors. The team's name and logo were inspired by the film Jurassic Park, released that same year. The team colours include bright red, purple and black as well as silver.

The Raptors had a difficult first season. They were 21-61 and struggled to make a name for themselves in the league. However, the team improved each year, and by 1999, they had made their first playoff appearance.

The Raptors' most memorable moment in 2019 was when they won their first NBA championship title. Toronto won their first title in thrilling six-game series against Golden State Warriors under the leadership of Kawhi and Kyle Lowry, the Raptors' backcourt duo.

The Raptors have been a beloved team in Canada since then. Toronto continues to be a hub of excitement for basketball fans all over the globe, from international stars to local talents.

Canada's proud heritage is represented by the Toronto Raptors. Their success on the courts inspires young basketball players all over the country. It is clear that the Raptors will be a favorite team for many years due to their loyal fans, innovative play style, and dedication to excellence.

What was the Raptors first game?

The Raptors' first regular season was played at the SkyDome against the New Jersey Nets, November 3, 1995. Alvin Robertson scored his first points in franchise history. 33,306 people were there. The Raptors defeated Nets 94-79% with contributions from Damon Stoudamire (with 10 points and 10 assists) as well Robertson (30pts).

Statistics

Thomas named Raptors' GM NBA superstar to have 10% stake in the new franchise". (en.wikipedia.org)
Thomas named Raptors' GM NBA superstar to have 10% stake in the new franchise". (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)
By 2018, estimated the Raptors were worth $1.4 billion, 12th in the NBA. (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)

External Links

How To

How to get the Toronto Raptors from your location

Toronto Raptors' games are held at Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. TTC subways can be used to get to ACC. Union Station takes about 30 minutes to get to ACC. Bay Street station is closest to ACC.

Bay street station is recommended if you want to reach ACC directly from Union Station. Follow the signs for ACC from Bay Street Station. Follow the signs to Bay Street station if you arrive at ACC in another direction.

Follow the signs for the ACC from Bay Street station.

The venue is accessible to those with disabilities. Special seating areas are available for people with disabilities. The ACC also offers sign language interpretation services.

The ACC does not charge a parking fee. There is limited street parking close by.

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