Kyle Lowry Set to Sign One-Day Contract, Retire with Raptors

Kyle Lowry, a legendary figure in basketball, has made a definitive statement about his retirement plans. He intends to sign a one-day contract with the Toronto Raptors to retire as a member of the team. This announcement came just before his final games in Toronto, including key matchups against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Kyle Lowry’s Commitment to the Raptors

Lowry expressed his unwavering commitment to the Raptors, stating, “My goal — and I’ve committed to this and I’ll go from what I say — I will sign a one-day contract and retire as a Raptor. That has not changed.” His dedication to the city and franchise remains strong despite spending the last five seasons with other teams.

A Lasting Legacy in Toronto

The veteran guard has not only shown affection for the city but also a sense of belonging. He attended a recent game wearing an Auston Matthews Maple Leafs jersey, reinforcing his connection to Toronto.

• Lowry has consistently stated his desire to retire as a Raptor.
• In 2021, he shared with Marc Spears that Toronto “is still home.”
• His impact during his nine years in Toronto has left a profound legacy.

Recognizing Achievements

Considered one of the greatest Raptors of all time, Lowry’s legacy is poised to be honored. The Raptors have retired only one jersey—Vince Carter’s No. 15—in November 2024. Lowry’s No. 7 is expected to follow suit, making him the second player in franchise history to receive this honor.

Emotional Reflections

When asked about the possibility of his jersey being retired, Lowry commented humorously, “I don’t know if it’s gonna go up,” before becoming serious. “Y’all ever seen me cry?” he added, reflecting on the emotional significance of seeing his jersey hang in the rafters.

As Lowry approaches the end of his playing career at 39, he has played limited minutes for the Philadelphia 76ers this season. His average of 8.6 minutes in just five games does not fully reflect the impact he has on and off the court.

The Future Awaits

Despite his decreased playing time, Kyle Lowry remains a crucial presence for his team. His contributions extend beyond statistics, marking him as a leader and inspiration. The Raptors and their fans are eagerly anticipating the day when his jersey will be immortalized, symbolizing his profound impact on the franchise.