The Toronto Raptors will honour Kyle Lowry on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, as he signs a one-day contract to officially retire with the franchise he led to its only NBA championship. The event, first reported by Sportsnet's Michael Grange, will feature special guests and mark a "monumental moment" in Raptors history, with sources confirming a morning gathering. Plans are also expected to retire Lowry's No. 7 jersey during the upcoming season.
Lowry's Legacy as the Greatest Raptor
Lowry, often called the 'GROAT' (Greatest Raptor of All-Time), spent nine seasons with Toronto from 2012 to 2021. He holds franchise records in assists, steals, three-pointers, triple-doubles, win shares, and value over replacement player. His Game 6 performance in the 2019 Eastern Conference Finals helped the Raptors defeat the Milwaukee Bucks 100-94, propelling them to their first NBA title. That championship run, led by Kawhi Leonard, cemented Lowry's place in Toronto sports history.
After being traded to the Miami Heat in August 2021, Lowry played for the Heat and later the Philadelphia 76ers, appearing in 14 games for his hometown Sixers in his 20th NBA season. Despite his travels, he repeatedly vowed to return. In March 2021, he stated, "Let me say this: I will retire as a Toronto Raptor. One-day contract, hey, whatever happens." He reaffirmed this promise during a January 2026 visit to Toronto with the Sixers, saying, "My goal — and I've committed to this and I never go from what I say — I will sign a one-day contract and retire as a Raptor. That has not changed."
Jersey Retirement and Fan Celebration
The Raptors previously retired Vince Carter's No. 15 during the franchise's 30th season, and Lowry's No. 7 retirement is widely expected to follow. Lowry himself acknowledged the emotional weight of the moment, telling the Toronto Sun in a recent interview, "I'm going to try not to cry. Vince Carter showed his emotions and it was such an amazing time and I'm looking forward to that moment."
The July 7 date holds symbolic significance, as it numerically matches Lowry's jersey number. The event will bring together key figures from the Raptors organization and Lowry's career, celebrating his contributions both on and off the court. Lowry remains a beloved figure in Toronto, known for his tenacity, leadership, and community involvement.
Lowry's Continued Ties to Toronto
Even after leaving the Raptors, Lowry maintained strong connections to the city. In January 2026, he wore an Auston Matthews jersey as a tribute to the Maple Leafs star, saying, "I respect the hell out of Auston, we had a mutually respectful relationship and I have to pay tribute to my city (and country) ... I'm a Maple Leafs guy and Auston, that's a great jersey." His bond with Toronto and its fans has remained unbroken throughout his post-Raptors career.
Lowry's retirement ceremony is expected to be a highlight of the Raptors' offseason, drawing fans and media from across Canada. The franchise has not yet announced a specific date for the jersey retirement during the 2026-27 season.
