Level Up Your Game: The Ultimate Guide to the NBA Toronto Raptors
The Toronto Raptors are a force to be reckoned with in the NBA, and for good reason. Whether you're a seasoned fan or just getting into basketball, this guide is your one-stop shop for everything Raptors.
History of the Toronto Raptors
Founded in 1995, The Raptors were part of the NBA's expansion into Canada. Since 2001, they've been the only Canadian team in the league, becoming a national treasure. Their journey has been one of highs and lows, but they culminated years of hard work with winning their first NBA championship in 2019.
Scotiabank Arena
The Scotiabank Arena also known as ‘The Hangar’ is a multipurpose arena home to concerts and events but is where Toronto's professional sports come alive. Home to both Toronto's Raptors and Toronto Maple Leafs.
The best way to get there is by public transportation. It’s highly recommended especially on a game day, as traffic and parking can be intense. The TTC subway system will drop you off at Union Station, just a short walk from the arena.
Where to buy Raptors tickets
You can purchase tickets from The Raptors' Official ticket marketplace Ticketmaster or the NBA website. Another option would be to try the Scotiabank Arena Box Office, however, tickets tend to sell out quickly and can be more expensive.
Where to watch
Can't get tickets? Don’t worry! Places across the city will be showing the game. Here are a few of our recommendations:
- Amsterdam Brewhouse by the Lake - A great option for watching the Raptors if you're looking for a fun and lively atmosphere with good food and drinks. Plus from their patio, you’ll get stunning views of Lake Ontario.
- The Rec Room - Fancy some pre or post-game fun? This entertainment complex offers tons of games and activities to keep you entertained alongside over 80 big screens showing the game.
- The Loose Moose - This classic sports bar, just a short walk from the Scotiabank Arena, offers the perfect atmosphere to get pumped up for the game. It's also a top spot to grab a pre-game burger or wings.
- Real Sports - If you want to see the game on the biggest screen in North America? Head here!
When does the NBA Season Start?
The NBA season typically starts in October and runs until June of the following year.
Basketball lingo: everything you need to know
Before the game, be sure to brush up on your basketball lingo to help understand the commentators before and during the game.
Behind the Arc or From Downtown - From 3-point range. If you shoot from within the arc, that's 2 points. From outside the arc, that's 3 points.
Dunk - Aggressively putting the ball through the hoop.
Assist - Passing to a teammate, who then scores. The passer will be rewarded with an assist.
Rebound - When the ball hits the rim and a player catches it.
Turnover - When the team with possession loses the ball and the other team gains possession. This could be from a steal or just dropping the ball (literally).
Technical Foul - A violation of the game's rules, typically more unsportsmanlike. I.e., slamming the ball against the ground in frustration, using foul language, etc.
Flagrant foul - Violent play. I.e. Pushing a player in mid-air. There are two grades of a Flagrant foul, 1 & 2. Flagrant 2 is an automatic ejection. It's similar to a red card in soccer.
Triple-Double - Players are scored in three areas. Points, assists and rebounds. When a player gets two of all of these areas in double digits, i.e.: 30 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists, that is a Triple Double.
Double-Double - Not to be confused with a Timmie's coffee. A double-double is the same as a triple-double but only gets two double-digit areas.
Fun facts about the Raptors
The Toronto Raptor’s slogan is ‘We The North’
The Raptors have a surprisingly large and dedicated fanbase outside of Canada. This is partly due to their success, exciting style of play, and their role as the only Canadian team in the NBA.
Their team mascot is a purple Dinosaur. The Raptor has won numerous awards for best mascot in the NBA.
The Raptors' name originated from a fan contest! There were over 2,000 entries submitted.
Torontonian rapper Drake is a superfan and official Global Ambassador for the Raptors. He's often seen courtside cheering on the team.
And finally, the biggest fun fact is the Raptor's NBA championship win in 2019! The victory parade that followed drew over 2 million people, the largest parade in Toronto's history.
