Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry celebrates during the 2019 Toronto Raptors Championship parade.
Kyle Lowry has made it clear: his NBA career will end where it all began. The six-time All-Star confirmed he plans to sign a one-day contract to retire as a Toronto Raptor, cementing his legacy with the franchise he helped define.
Home Is Where the Heart Is
Despite playing the past five seasons away from Toronto, Lowry’s connection to the city has never wavered. Ahead of his possible final games at Scotiabank Arena on Sunday and Monday, he spoke openly about his retirement plans.
“My goal, and I’ve committed to this, is to sign a one-day contract and retire as a Raptor. That has not changed,” Lowry told reporters ahead of the Philadelphia 76ers’ visit to Toronto.
Even while with other teams, Lowry has consistently expressed his desire to finish his career in Toronto. Back in 2021, after his trade to the Miami Heat, he told Andscape’s Marc Spears that Toronto was “still home” and retiring as a Raptor was his “everything.” He reaffirmed that sentiment during a 2023 visit to Toronto, stating, “I’m definitely retiring a Raptor.”
A Legacy That Cannot Be Worn Again
Widely regarded as the greatest Raptor of all time, Lowry’s No. 7 jersey is expected to join the rafters of Scotiabank Arena. The Raptors have only retired one other jersey in franchise history, Vince Carter’s No. 15 in November 2024, but Lowry’s number seems poised to follow.
Asked about the honor, Lowry initially joked, “I don’t know if it’s gonna go up,” before reflecting on the emotional significance.
“Y’all ever seen me cry? It depends on how Matt [Devlin] handles it. If he emcees, it would be a super emotional day,” Lowry said. “I put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into that No. 7. The fact that it probably won’t ever be worn again, it’s pretty special. For my basketball legacy, it’s gonna be pretty darn cool.”
From Toronto to Philadelphia
At 39, Lowry’s role with his current team, the 76ers, has been limited. He’s appeared in only five games this season, averaging 8.6 minutes per game. Yet, his influence extends far beyond statistics.
Throughout his career, Lowry has been the emotional heartbeat of every team he played for. His leadership, toughness, and competitive spirit defined the Raptors’ most successful era, including their 2019 NBA Championship run. Even in Philadelphia, teammates respect his presence and guidance.
Farewell to the Raptors’ Heartbeat
Lowry’s impending retirement as a Raptor will mark the end of an era. His legacy is not just in numbers or accolades but in the culture he built for the franchise. From thrilling playoff moments to leading by example, Lowry’s impact on Toronto basketball is immeasurable.
Fans can expect a poignant ceremony when his jersey rises to the rafters, celebrating a player whose career will forever be intertwined with the Raptors’ identity. For Lowry, one thing is certain: Toronto will always be home.
