The Toronto Raptors have confirmed that Kyle Lowry’s jersey number 7 will be retired after the January 10 fixture against the Philadelphia 76ers, making him the second player in the club’s history to have a number raised to the rafters, a distinction previously held only by Vince Carter. The 40‑year‑old guard concluded a two‑decade NBA career in July, having signed a one‑day contract to formally announce his retirement as a Raptor. His nine seasons in Toronto were highlighted by a championship triumph in 2019 and a reputation as the franchise’s all‑time leader in assists, steals and three‑point field goals. The announcement was accompanied by heartfelt statements from Lowry himself.
He will become the second Raptor to receive this honour, joining the legendary Vince Carter.
Retirement Celebration and Jersey Unveiling
Following the Sixers encounter, the Raptors will stage a dedicated ceremony at Scotiabank Arena, where Lowry’s No. 7 will be hoisted alongside the retired numbers of previous legends. The club has scheduled complementary tributes during its home fixtures against the Minnesota Timberwolves on January 7 and the Utah Jazz on January 8, ensuring that fans across the continent can share in the moment. “I’ve been looking forward to this moment for years. I always said that Toronto is home, and that I’d retire a Raptor, and to see my No. 7 go up in that building is going to mean everything to me,” Lowry said. “We built something special here — my teammates, the organization, the city and the fans, and all of Canada. We became champions together, and to be able to share this night with all of them, and with my family, is going to mean a lot to me.”
Lowry’s Legacy with the Raptors
Lowry arrived in Toronto in 20122 after a stint with the Boston Celtics, quickly becoming the linchpin of the organisation’s resurgence. Over nine seasons he amassed 9,000 points, 1,800 assists and more than 1,500 steals, cementing his status as the franchise’s all‑time leader in assists, steals and three‑point field goals. His tenacious defence and clutch play were instrumental in guiding the Raptors to their maiden NBA championship in 2019, a triumph that resonated beyond the border and earned the city its first Larry O’Brien Trophy. The guard’s six All‑Star selections and his reputation as a consummate team‑player have left an indelible imprint on the Raptors’ identity.
Upcoming Honours and Events
The club will mark the occasion with a series of fan‑focused activities, including a pre‑game video montage, a commemorative merchandise release and a community outreach programme that reflects Lowry’s charitable work in Toronto. Tickets for the January 7 and January 8 contests went on sale immediately after the retirement announcement, and the organisation expects a sold‑out crowd to celebrate the guard’s contributions on and off the court.
Why it Matters
This retirement not only caps a remarkable two‑decade career but also underscores the Raptors’ commitment to honouring its history while shaping the future of Canadian basketball; Lowry’s number 7 will serve as a lasting reminder of the grit and unity that defined a championship era and inspired a generation of players across the nation.
