Credit : ESPN
The Toronto Raptors made a bold defensive statement in the 2025 NBA Draft. With the 39th overall pick, they selected guard Alijah Martin, a tenacious defender with a strong collegiate record. This move came just a day after the team picked Collin Murray-Boyles at No. 9—another player known for his defensive intensity.
The Raptors' focus on defense is becoming increasingly clear, and Martin’s selection only solidifies that direction.
Alijah Martin: A Defensive Force with Versatility
Standing at six-foot-one, Alijah Martin carved out a reputation as a tough two-way guard during his five-year NCAA career. He ended his collegiate journey at the University of Florida, where he helped the Gators win an NCAA championship. Last season, he averaged 14.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists across 38 games, starting 36 of them.
Martin began his career at Florida Atlantic University, where he also posted strong numbers. Across both schools, his combined averages stood at 12.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game.
Martin’s defensive mindset matches Toronto’s identity. He averaged 1.3 steals per game over five seasons and developed a knack for reading plays and shutting down ballhandlers.
Building a Defensive Wall with Collin Murray-Boyles
Toronto's ninth pick, Collin Murray-Boyles, complements Martin perfectly. Murray-Boyles made waves at South Carolina with 1.5 steals and 1.3 blocks per game in his sophomore season. His commitment to defense and physical play has earned him attention as a rising NBA prospect.
Martin is excited to play alongside Murray-Boyles, calling him “hard to deal with” on the court. “We end up slipping away at the end and getting the win, but he made it very hard for us,” Martin recalled.
Their pairing with veteran guard Jamal Shead, another defensive stalwart, suggests the Raptors are building a gritty and relentless defensive core.
Raptors See Martin as a Valuable Role Player
Following the draft, Raptors assistant general manager Dan Tolzman emphasized that Martin’s versatility was a major reason for the selection. He believes Martin has the tools to guard multiple positions, especially from point guard to small forward.
“Martin has some untapped potential,” said Tolzman. “Offensively, he has room to grow, especially with on-ball responsibilities and shooting.”
Tolzman also noted that Martin's shooting could improve significantly now that basketball will become his full-time focus.
Unlike college, the NBA provides players more time and resources to develop skills like consistent perimeter shooting.
Raptors Strategize Ahead of Free Agency
Toronto wrapped up last season with a 30-52 record, ranking seventh worst in the league. Despite this, they fell to the ninth pick in the draft lottery.
Martin’s selection at 39 was made possible through a prior trade with the Sacramento Kings, acquiring the pick from Portland via last year’s draft-day deal.
With free agency opening on Monday, Toronto’s front office is expected to review their cap situation closely. Though cap space is tight, Tolzman hinted at potential moves in the coming days.
“There’s always a little bit of tweaking that can happen,” he said.
A Defensive Identity for the Future
The Raptors are clearly reshaping their roster with a defense-first philosophy. The addition of Alijah Martin reinforces this shift. Known for his intensity, poise, and versatility, Martin fits perfectly into Toronto’s long-term vision.
Pairing him with fellow defender Collin Murray-Boyles, the Raptors are forming a young, energetic, and hard-nosed bench unit. With more moves likely in the pipeline, fans can expect a gritty, physical team that puts defense at the heart of its comeback story.
