Kyle Lowry kept the promise he made to the city that embraced him most.
The six-time NBA All-Star officially ended his decorated 20-year career after signing a one-day contract with the Toronto Raptors, allowing him to retire as a member of the franchise where he cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in team history.
Lowry announced his retirement on Tuesday, July 7 (Philippine Standard Time), closing the book on a remarkable NBA journey that saw him become one of only 12 players in league history to appear in 20 seasons. The veteran guard walked away from basketball after collecting individual accolades, international success, and the ultimate team achievement—a championship ring.
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The decision to retire as a Raptor was a fitting conclusion for a player who became synonymous with Toronto basketball. After spending nine seasons with the franchise, Lowry established himself as the heart and soul of the team, helping transform the Raptors into a consistent playoff contender and eventually guiding them to their first NBA championship in 2019.
Lowry shared his gratitude in an emotional farewell message, thanking the many people who supported him throughout his career and confirming his desire to retire where his NBA legacy was built.
“Thank you to my family, my friends, my teammates, my coaches, my opponents, the staff, the media and especially the fans. It’s all about you. I appreciate you. Thank you. Thank you, Toronto. Thank you, Canada. And as I always told you all, it’s officially happening. I’m retiring as a Toronto Raptor – 20 years and 1 day. Seven forever. I love you all. Peace,” Lowry said in a post on his social media handles.
Reflecting on his career, Lowry expressed pride in everything he accomplished both on and off the court. Beyond the championships and personal achievements, he emphasized the importance of being able to provide for his family and share his basketball journey with his children.
“I’m happy with my career. I have done a lot of things in my career, I got a gold medal, I have got a championship, an All-Star, All-Star NBA. I was able to provide for my family. I think that’s the one thing that I’m happy about. I got two great kids. They got to see a lot of it, they got to be a part of a lot of it, which is really cool,” he added.
Lowry entered the NBA after being selected 24th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2006 NBA Draft. While he began his career in Memphis, he later developed his game with the Houston Rockets before eventually finding his long-term home in Toronto.
During his time with the Raptors, Lowry evolved from a talented guard into the franchise’s undisputed leader. His toughness, competitiveness, and willingness to sacrifice for the team made him a fan favorite and earned him the nickname “The GROAT” (Greatest Raptor of All Time) from many supporters.
#7 FOREVER pic.twitter.com/4Cxpr5jSO6
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) July 7, 2026
Alongside players such as DeMar DeRozan and later Kawhi Leonard, Lowry played a central role in one of the most successful eras in Raptors history. His leadership was especially evident during the 2018-19 championship campaign, where Toronto defeated the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals to capture the first title in franchise history.
Lowry also had successful stints with the Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers late in his career, bringing veteran leadership and championship experience to both organizations before returning to Toronto for his final NBA moment.
The 40-year-old Lowry finished his NBA career with impressive statistical achievements, averaging 13.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 6.0 assists over more than 1,178 regular-season games.
He also left his mark as one of the league’s most productive perimeter shooters, ranking 14th on the NBA’s all-time three-point field goals list with 2,209 made three-pointers.
Lowry’s postseason résumé was equally notable. He reached the playoffs in 12 of his 20 NBA seasons, averaging 13.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game during his playoff appearances. His ability to deliver in high-pressure moments became one of the defining characteristics of his career.
His impact extended beyond statistics. Known for his defensive intensity, leadership, and relentless competitiveness, Lowry earned respect from teammates, coaches, and opponents throughout the league.
The city of Toronto honored Lowry’s contributions by officially recognizing July 7 as “Kyle Lowry Day.”
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow highlighted the guard’s impact on the franchise and the broader basketball community in Canada, acknowledging his role in helping elevate the sport’s popularity across the country.
“Kyle Lowry holds a special place in Toronto’s story. On Kyle Lowry Day, we thank him for the years he gave to the Raptors, the memories he created for fans and the role he played in the growth of basketball in Toronto and across Canada,” Chow wrote.
As Lowry begins retirement, his legacy remains firmly established—not only as an NBA champion and All-Star, but as the player who embodied the toughness, passion, and determination that defined the Toronto Raptors during one of the most successful periods in franchise history.
After two decades, countless battles, and one unforgettable championship run, Kyle Lowry leaves the NBA exactly the way he wanted: forever a Toronto Raptor.
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