While his Los Angeles Clippers teammates flew home after a Friday night game, Kawhi Leonard stayed behind in the city he once called home. The former Toronto Raptors superstar spent Saturday, January 18, 2026, giving back to the community that embraced him during his championship run.
A Heartfelt Return to Scarborough
Leonard hosted a special basketball clinic for dozens of young athletes at TAT Stadium in Scarborough. The event, organized with the Boys and Girls Club, was met with enthusiastic cheers as the two-time NBA Finals MVP entered the gymnasium.
"Toronto is still in my heart," Leonard told the gathered crowd, emotionally connecting his family's story to the city. He revealed that his son was born in Canada, adding a personal layer to his visit. "He's from Canada, so we always talk about bringing him back and showing him where he was born," Leonard said. "I just wanted to leave a blueprint out here."
Unveiling a Legendary Mural
The clinic's highlight was the unveiling of a new mural at the facility, which will now name one of its courts the Kawhi Leonard Court. The artwork features a photograph of Leonard's iconic, series-winning buzzer-beater in Game 7 of the 2019 Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Philadelphia 76ers—a moment forever etched in Raptors lore.
Beneath the image is a powerful quote from Leonard: "You are stronger than you think." He used the mural as a teaching moment for the youth, emphasizing that the famous shot was the result of relentless preparation. "It's about the countless hours before that, and then we still have work to do after this," he explained, referencing the championship run that followed. He encouraged the kids to stay focused and resilient during difficult times.
A Lasting Legacy and Future Promises
Beyond inspiration, Leonard provided tangible support, donating shoes, clothing, and basketballs to the participants. Jackie Fung, founder of TAT Stadium, noted the profound impact of the visit, stating it was "something they're going to remember for the rest of their life." The event was also attended by Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and City Councillor Michael Thompson.
Importantly, Leonard signaled this was not a one-off gesture. He revealed this clinic was just the first of more initiatives he plans to undertake to support youth in the Greater Toronto Area. "This won't be the last thing," he promised. "I'll be doing something else out here."
Leonard's visit came just one day after his Clippers, in a game he did not play, defeated the Raptors 117-112 in overtime at Scotiabank Arena. The two teams are scheduled to meet again on March 25 in Los Angeles.
