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Kyle Lowry plans to retire as a Raptor, closing a career that defined Toronto’s most successful era and delivered its first title.
There was never much doubt about how this would end. Kyle Lowry has always known which jersey would define his career. When he officially retires, it will be with the Toronto Raptors.
Lowry, now 39, recently confirmed his plan to sign a one-day contract and retire as a Raptor. The announcement came ahead of what could be his final games in Toronto. It reaffirmed what fans already believed, Lowry’s legacy belongs to the city.
“My goal, and I’ve committed to this, I will sign a one-day contract and retire as a Raptor,” Lowry said after playing in Toronto for potentially the last time. “That has not changed.”
The Backbone of Toronto’s Golden Era
Lowry’s nine seasons in Toronto aligned with the most successful stretch in franchise history. He served as the team’s engine, emotional leader, and on-court organizer. Few players in franchise history carried that level of responsibility for so long.
From 2012-13 through 2020-21, Lowry helped guide the Raptors to seven straight playoff appearances. He earned six All-Star selections, all with Toronto. He also made All-NBA Third Team in 2015-16, a season that produced a then-franchise-record 56 wins. That year symbolized the Raptors’ rise from relevance to legitimacy.
Lowry also formed a durable and productive backcourt with DeMar DeRozan. Together, they anchored a team that became a consistent Eastern Conference power.
The run reached its peak in 2019. With Kawhi Leonard leading the charge, while Lowry as the secondary playmaker helped with scoring ability and competitiveness on the defensive end. With that, he delivered the franchise’s first and still only, NBA championship.
A Record Book That Leaves No Debate
Lowry doesn’t just feel like the greatest Raptor ever. The numbers support it. He ranks first in franchise history in assists, steals, and three-pointers made. He sits second in games played and points, and his playoff resume is unmatched, leading Toronto in virtually every major postseason counting stat.
Those totals reflect more than longevity. They reflect responsibility. Lowry was the constant through coaching changes, playoff disappointments, and eventual championship validation. When the Raptors needed direction, he provided it.
Jersey Retirement Feels Inevitable
The Raptors have retired only one jersey in franchise history. Vince Carter’s No. 15 went into the rafters in November 2024. Lowry’s No. 7 appears next in line.
Lowry has avoided calling it a certainty. Still, emotion surfaces when he discusses the possibility. He understands what the moment would represent.
“I put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into that,” Lowry said. “The fact that it probably won’t ever be worn again would be pretty special.”
If longtime Raptors voice Matt Devlin hosts the ceremony, Lowry admits it may be overwhelming.
“Y’all ever seen me cry?” Lowry said when asked about what will go through his head and heart when he sees his jersey go up. “It depends on how Matt (Devlin, Raptors commentator) … He might be the emcee. If he does, and when he does, it would be a super emotional day.
Impact That Outlasts the Final Days
Lowry’s on-court role has diminished in his final season with the Philadelphia 76ers, where minutes and usage no longer define his value. That’s nothing new. His influence has always extended beyond numbers.
When Lowry finally hangs up his sneakers, it won’t just mark the end of a career. It will close the defining chapter of Raptors basketball. And fittingly, it will end with his name attached to the franchise he helped build, forever a Raptor, in title and in truth.