NBA champion Lowry returns to Toronto Raptors for a day and retires

Former NBA champion Kyle Lowry re-signed for his former team Toronto Raptors for one day before retiring at the age of 40.

The veteran point guard, who helped the Raptors win the 2019 NBA championship, wanted to end his career with the team after playing for the Philadelphia 76ers since 2024.

“Thank you to my family, my friends, my team-mates, my coaches, my opponents, the staff, the media and especially the fans,” Lowry said, external.

“It’s all about you. I appreciate you. Thank you. Thank you, Toronto. Thank you, Canada. And as I always told y’all, it’s officially happening. I’m retiring as a Toronto Raptor.”

Lowry was selected to the All-Star Game six times in nine seasons with the Raptors. He also played for the Memphis Grizzlies, Houston Rockets and Miami Heat and spent the majority of his final three seasons with his hometown team the 76ers, while also working as a television pundit.

He wore the seven jersey with the Raptors and made his announcement on 7 July.

Lowry and his wife have also joined the ownership group of WNBA side Toronto Tempo.

“We are a huge basketball family and have been big supporters of the WNBA since day one,” the couple said in a statement.

“This feels like a true full circle moment to announce our ownership in the Tempo. We’re excited to help build something special in Toronto, inspire the next generation of athletes and fans, and support the continued growth of women’s basketball in Canada.”