By Zharita Sese
Eagle News Service

(Eagle News) — Emotions were high in Scotiabank Arena as Toronto Raptor fans welcomed beloved former Raptor, Kyle Lowry, as he returned to Toronto for the first time since signing with the Miami Heat this past NBA off season. 

With the arena littered in number 7 jerseys donning “Lowry”, the six-time All-Star was presented with a tribute video in which the organization recapped his career as a Raptor. It was in that moment that fans showed their appreciation for the point-guard that they called captain for nine years. 

When asked how special this particle game and moment was, Kyle Lowry knew that the feeling was mutual.

“It meant the world to me. For the fans to show their appreciation, to give me an ovation like that, to be out on the floor with some of my former teammates,” Lowry said.”It’s one of those days where the first time is always special and you don’t forget that….It showed that everything that I did for them meant the world for them and vice versa.” 

Lowry was with the Raptors organization for the past nine seasons since being traded from the Houston Rockets in 2012.

During his stay with Toronto, Lowry averaged 17.5 points per game, 7.1 assists and 4.9 rebounds all while holding the franchise records for most 3-pointers, most assists and most steals.

Lowry was also able to represent Toronto in six All-Star games and was named All-NBA team for the 2015-2016 season. Most importantly, He helped to bring home a championship during the 2018-2019 season just like he said he would.  

But beyond the stats, accolades and records, Raptor fans will always remember the intangibles that Lowry brought to this organization like leadership, grit, determination and resilience. Nobody can deny just how instrumental Lowry was in putting Toronto and Raptors on the map among the league. 

(Eagle News Service)