The return of a legend

By Jordan Ketler April 21, 2023 27 mins read 6922 Views

Raptors Rumors is the ultimate source for Raptors fans. They bring together in unison an army of followers from all corners who support Toronto's sports pride. It's a community built on passion, grit and blood orange spirit that can be found worldwide.

Masaai Ujiri, the general manager of basketball operations, leads the charge with his vision for success. He has assembled a team of players focused on outworking their opponents and delivering victories. Despite the odds, this team of brave individuals strives to prove that the NBA championship is within their reach.

From honest analysis to unfiltered reaction, Raptors Rumors has you covered everything Raptor-related. Join us in standing behind our team no matter what - because, as we have always said, "We The North". Plus, share your thoughts with us by emailing [email protected] and become part of our family today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Vancouver ever had a team in the NBA?

Vancouver does NOT have a NBA team. The Vancouver Grizzlies played in Vancouver from 1995-2001. The team relocated to Memphis Tennessee in 2001. Vancouver is home to the Toronto Raptors, the local NBA team. The Greater Vancouver Area also hosts professional basketball teams, such as Vancouver Volcanoes and the Canadian Elite Basketball League's BC Tigers. Many amateur and semiprofessional teams play in different local leagues.

Vancouver has many recreational opportunities for basketball fans. Vancouver Grizzlies Alumni Association aims for former players to get together and promote basketball in British Columbia. The association hosts events such as viewing parties for Raptors games and clinics to help young players 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 still love basketball, and they continue to support former players and other organizations who work to promote the sport within the city.

What was the best year for the Raptors?

The 2019 championship season was Toronto Raptors’ best year. It was a memorable and thrilling season for the Raptors. This was their first ever NBA Championship. Kawhi Leonard was crowned Finals MVP. The team's regular season record was 58-24. They beat the Golden State Warriors six times to win the title.

The Toronto Raptors made a change in 2013 when they replaced Bryan Colangelo (then general manager) with Masai Ujiri. This would mark a new era in the franchise's history, which would see them rise to the top of the NBA.

The Raptors under Ujiri enjoyed a resurgence and reached the playoffs in 2014. This was their first playoff appearance since 2008. Since then, they've won five Division titles and had their most successful regular season in 2018. Ujiri made a risky trade for Kawhi Leonard that resulted in DeMar DeRozan being traded to the San Antonio Spurs.

The Raptors had a fantastic 2019, clinching their first conference championship and making it to the NBA finals for the inaugural time. They defeated the Golden State Warriors in six games.

Ujiri's tenure as a Raptors player has been a huge success and should be recognized for changing the Raptors' fortunes. He has led the Raptors to become one of NBA's best teams and looks poised for continued success.

The 2019 championship season is certain to be one of the most memorable in Raptors' history.

As we advance, Ujiri and the rest of the Toronto Raptors organization should remain focused on creating a winning culture that supports their players and staff. This team has a bright future if it continues to be dedicated to excellence. The 2019 Toronto Raptors Championship season has set a high bar, and Ujiri and his teammates must build on this success.

When was the Raptors' first 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 point in franchise history, drawing 33,306 spectators. The Raptors beat the Nets 94 to 79 thanks to contributions by Damon Stoudamire (10 pts and 10 assists), and Robertson (30 points).

Why is Toronto Raptors called Raptors

The Toronto Raptors were founded in 1995 as part of the NBA's expansion into Canada. The film Jurassic Park inspired the name and logo. The team colours are silver, bright red, purple, and black.

The Raptors were struggling to establish themselves in the league during their first season. They ended up with a record 21-61. The team improved each year and they made their first playoff appearance in 1999.

The Raptors most memorable moment was 2019 when they captured their first NBA championship title. Toronto's first title was won by Kawhi Leonard and Kyle Lowry, their backcourt duo. They defeated the Golden State Warriors in six thrilling games.

Since then, the Raptors are a favourite sports team in Canada. Toronto continues bringing excitement to basketball fans across the world with its international superstars as well as local talent.

Canada's basketball heritage is proudly represented by the Toronto Raptors. Young athletes are inspired by their success on the court. The Raptors are a beloved team in Canada thanks to their passion, unmatched style of play and dedication to excellence.

Statistics

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)
After Thomas attempted to execute a letter of intent with Slaight to purchase the team failed, he resigned from his position in November and sold his 9 percent stake in the team to Slaight. (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)
As predicted by analysts, the team easily secured a berth in the 2001 NBA playoffs with a franchise-high 47 wins. (en.wikipedia.org)

External Links

How To

How to get to a Toronto Raptors game from your location

Toronto Raptors games take place at the Air Canada Centre (ACC), in downtown Toronto, Ontario Canada. TTC Metro system takes you to ACC. Union Station takes 30 minutes to reach ACC. Bay Street station is the nearest stop 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. If you arrive at ACC via another direction, please take the signs to Bay Street station.

Follow signs to the ACC starting at Bay Street Station.

The venue can be accessed by people with disabilities. For those with disabilities, there are designated seating areas. The ACC also offers sign language interpretation services.

Parking is free at the ACC. Parking is not available on the streets nearby.

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