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Frequently Asked Questions
What does "We The North” actually 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, producer Noah "40", Shebib.
Drake wrote the song while visiting a Toronto friend. He recorded Take Care with KanyeWest, another artist. Drake decided to make lyrics about his hometown while there. Drake wanted it to be universally applicable. It speaks of unity, pride and hope.
Drake began to work on the melody for We The North after he went to London to film the video for his single "Nice For What". He then recorded the instrumental version in one take.
Drake was writing lyrics for the song when 40 suggested the chorus. Drake heard the hook and asked 40 if he could record it. Together they created the final product.
The official music video for "We The North Anthem," was released on October 5, 2018. It featured Shawn Mendes, Canadian singer-songwriter and Drake performing with other musicians.
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 his first points in franchise history. 33,306 people were there. The Raptors beat the Nets 94 to 79 thanks to contributions by Damon Stoudamire (10 pts and 10 assists), and Robertson (30 points).
Why are 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' first season of basketball was a struggle. They finished the season with a record of 21-61. But the team improved each season and was able to reach the playoffs by 1999.
The Raptors' most memorable moment occurred in 2019, when they won their inaugural NBA championship title. Led by the backcourt duo of Kyle Lowry and Kawhi Leonard, Toronto won their first championship in a thrilling six-game series against the Golden State Warriors.
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 basketball heritage is proudly represented by the Toronto Raptors. Young athletes are inspired by their success on the court. The Raptors will continue being a favourite team because of their passionate fans and unique style.
How did the Raptors win 2019's NBA title?
On July 18, 2018, the Toronto Raptors traded DeMar DeRozan, Jakob Poltl, and a protected 2019 first-round draft pick to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green.
On February 7, 2019, the Raptors traded Jonas Valanciunas, Delon Wright C. J. Miles and a 2024 second-round pick from the draft to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for Marc Gasol, another multiple All-Star and former Defensive Players of the Year. Jeremy Lin was signed shortly thereafter.
The Toronto Raptors had an extremely exciting offseason. Two major trades sent shockwaves through NBA. DeMar DeRozan, Jakob Poltl and a 2019 first round draft pick (that was not protected) were first traded by the Raptors to the San Antonio Spurs. In exchange for those players, they received Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green from the Spurs. Then they traded Jonas Valanciunas to the Spurs and Delon WrightC.J. Miles, and a 2024 second-round draft pick to the Memphis Grizzlies for Marc Gasol--another multiple All-Star and former Defensive Player of the Year. These moves have put the Raptors in a strong position to challenge for the NBA title. Let's examine each trade.
The trade for Kawhi Leonard was a risk-reward move for the Raptors. Leonard is an MVP-caliber player when healthy, and he's a top-5 player in league. On the other hand, he only played 9 games last season due to injury, and there are questions about his long-term health. However, the Raptors decided that the reward was worth the risk and pulled the trigger on the deal. Leonard has been performing at an All-Star level so far. He has been in good health. Leonard is averaging 26 point, 8 rebounds and 3 assists per contest while shooting 49% from 3-point range and 38% from the field. If he is healthy, the Raptors have a chance to win the NBA title this season.
Marc Gasol traded for Marc Gasol in a more short-term move. Gasol, who is in his mid-30s, is clearly past his prime. But, he's still a good player that brings valuable experience and talent to the young Raptors. He is averaging 15 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists per game while shooting 45% from the field and 34% from three-point range. C.J. Wright and Delon Wright were young assets the Raptors traded. Miles was able to purchase Gasol, but the Raptors feel his experience is invaluable when it comes time for playoffs.
The Raptors were off to a good start with a winning 6-0 record. Their 16th win was on November 23rd. The Raptors took precautions with Leonard and rested him for more 20 games to avoid worsening the injury. However, they still managed to snag the 2nd seed in East--only trailing behind Milwaukee Bucks.
The Raptors were able to continue their winning streak in the playoffs by defeating the Philadelphia 76ers (Orlando Magic), Milwaukee Bucks (Milwaukee Bucks) to reach the NBA Finals. Leonard was named Finals' MVP as the Raptors won the first title against the Golden State Warriors.
The Toronto Raptors had an extremely successful offseason. It paid off big. The Raptors will be contenders for many years with two All-Stars. They have proven that they are willing to take risks and make bold moves if it means creating a championship-calibre team. It will be fascinating to see if they can maintain this level of success in the future.
How many Toronto Raptors have had all-stars?
Vince Carter, Antonio Davis and DeMar DeRozan are eight Raptors All-Stars. Out of these players creating this impressive All-Star team lineup, except Davis and VanVleet, they have all made other NBA teams, such as Leonard, into the All-NBA Defensive team.
Statistics
- 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)
- 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)
- 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)
- 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
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How To
Tips for where to eat in Toronto before the Toronto Raptors' Game at Scotiabank Arena
Avoiding eating before a game is the best thing to do. If you are hungry upon arrival at the arena, there will be plenty of food available inside.
There are also concession stands and food stands along the concourse. You can find places that specialize in beer and others that offer hot dogs, pizzas, and burgers.
Concession stands selling nachos are one of the most popular. These delicious, cheesey snacks can be topped with jalapenos or cheese sauce and bacon bits.
You can also buy tickets for a pre-game party. These parties can be hosted at many restaurants so guests can enjoy food or drinks before heading to the arena.
The arena is near a barbeque joint that offers great local food. The menu includes pulled pork sandwiches and chicken wings as well as ribs.
You will find many fast food outlets nearby, including Subway and Tim Hortons.
Walking distance from many restaurants offers healthy eating options. Freshii is one notable place. Freshii is a chain that specializes in organic wraps and fresh salads.
Other options include sushi bars and juice shops.
If you prefer to grab a drink rather than eat, there are several coffee shops and ice cream parlours right across the street.
There are many places to eat in Toronto, no matter what your taste buds may be. You should allow enough time for security screenings and finding your seat.
Have fun cheering home and thanks for reading. Go Raptors! Enjoy the game
Resources:
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