The Toronto Raptors, founded in 1995, struggled initially but found success with players like Vince Carter and Chris Bosh. Masai Ujiri's tenure brought consistent playoff appearances and a historic NBA championship in 2019.
The Toronto Raptors are a professional basketball team based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. They were established in 1995 as part of the NBA's expansion into Canada.
1946-11-01
Toronto Huskies' First Game
The Toronto Huskies played their first professional basketball game against the New York Knickerbockers at Maple Leaf Gardens, marking the beginning of professional basketball in Toronto.
1989
NBA exhibition games in Toronto
In 1989 and 1992, the NBA organized exhibition games in Toronto with over 25,000 attendees each. These games contributed to the growing interest in bringing an NBA franchise to the city.
1993-09-30
Toronto Raptors awarded NBA franchise
On September 30, 1993, PBF was conditionally awarded a franchise for the 1995–96 NBA season, making Toronto Raptors the 28th team in the league. The expansion fee was a then-record $125 million.
1993-11-04
Toronto Raptors awarded NBA franchise
The Toronto Raptors were officially formed on November 4, 1993, when the NBA Board of Governors approved the decision of the Expansion Committee to grant Toronto its 28th franchise. The ownership group led by Toronto businessman John Bitove paid a record expansion fee of US$125 million.
1994-05-15
Toronto Raptors Nickname Announcement
In May 1994, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment announced the nickname for the new NBA team based in Toronto after conducting extensive marketing research and a nationwide vote. The final selection, 'Toronto Raptors,' was unveiled on Canadian national television.
1994-05-24
Isiah Thomas joins Toronto Raptors
On May 24, 1994, NBA legend Isiah Thomas is introduced as the vice-president of basketball for the Toronto Raptors and eventually becomes a part owner of the team.
1994-12-23
Raptors Foundation Donation to Toronto Star Santa Fund
On December 23, 1994, the Raptors Foundation made a significant $51,000 donation to the Toronto Star Santa Fund, aiding in reaching the $900,000 goal. This marked the first official community contribution by the NBA team's charitable fund-raising umbrella.
1995
Toronto Raptors Establishment
The Toronto Raptors were established in 1995 as an expansion team in the NBA, becoming the first Canadian team in the league.
1995-02-03
Raptors unveil official uniforms at BCE Place in Toronto
In February 1995, the Toronto Raptors showcased their official uniforms at BCE Place in Toronto. The international launch of the uniforms took place on February 3 at the 'Super Show' in Atlanta.
1995-02-24
Toronto Raptors announce naming of new home as 'Air Canada Centre'
On February 24, 1995, the Toronto Raptors revealed the new name of their home arena as the 'Air Canada Centre'. This announcement marked a significant partnership for the Canadian team.
1995-05-15
Toronto Raptors Moniker Unveiled
On May 15, the Toronto Raptors revealed their team moniker on Canadian national television. The moniker was likely inspired by the success of the movie Jurassic Park. The associated logo was unveiled a few days later.
1995-05-16
Raptors sign closing documents to join NBA
On May 16, 1995, the Toronto Raptors signed the closing documents to officially become a part of the NBA, solidifying their position as a professional basketball team.
1995-05-26
Raptors hold first free-agent training camp
From May 26 to 28, 1995, the Toronto Raptors conducted their inaugural free-agent training camp at Seneca College in Toronto, marking a significant step in building their team.
1995-06-16
Brendan Malone named first head coach of Toronto Raptors
Brendan Malone, with 26 years of coaching experience including nine years in the NBA, was appointed as the inaugural head coach of the Toronto Raptors.
1995-06-24
Toronto Raptors select players in 1995 NBA Expansion Draft
On June 24, 1995, the Toronto Raptors selected B.J. Armstrong of the Chicago Bulls and 13 other players in the 1995 NBA Expansion Draft.
1995-06-28
Damon Stoudamire drafted by Toronto Raptors
On June 28, 1995, the Toronto Raptors selected Damon Stoudamire as their first draft pick, despite facing backlash from fans who preferred Ed O'Bannon. Stoudamire later goes on to win the NBA rookie of the year award.
1995-10-06
Toronto Raptors First Training Camp
In October 1995, the Toronto Raptors held their inaugural training camp at Copps Coliseum in Hamilton, Canada.
1995-10-14
Toronto Raptors First Preseason Game
On October 14, 1995, the Toronto Raptors played their first preseason game at the Halifax Metro.
1995-11-02
Toronto Raptors announce inaugural season roster
On November 2, 1995, the Toronto Raptors revealed their 12-man active roster for their first season. The lineup included Victor.
1995-11-03
Toronto Raptors NBA Debut in Canada
On November 3, 1995, the NBA made its historic return to Canada with the debut of the Toronto Raptors.
1995-11-04
Toronto Raptors Establishment
The Toronto Raptors were established on November 4, 1995, as Canada's second NBA team.
1996-03-24
Toronto Raptors defeat Chicago Bulls
On March 24, 1996, the Toronto Raptors handed the Chicago Bulls one of their nine losses that season by beating Michael Jordan and his team 109-108 in front of 36,131 fans at SkyDome.
1996-04-22
End of the first season for Toronto Raptors
On April 22, 1996, one day after the first season ends, the Toronto Raptors finished with a 21-61 record.
1996-05-15
Damon Stoudamire receives Schick Rookie of the Year Award
On May 15, 1996, Damon Stoudamire was honored with the 1995-96 Schick Rookie of the Year Award for his outstanding performance in his debut season.
1996-11-01
New Head Coach Darrell Walker appointed for Raptors
On November 1, 1996, Darrell Walker was announced as the new head coach of the Raptors, succeeding Brendan Malone who resigned due to philosophical differences with the team.
1996-11-15
Toronto Raptors Second NBA Season Begins
On November 15, 1996, the Toronto Raptors started their second NBA season by hosting the New York Knicks. This event marked the 50th anniversary of the first-ever NBA game where the Toronto Huskies hosted the Knicks.
1996-11-22
Investments, Inc. takes majority control of the Toronto Raptors
In November 1996, Investments, Inc. acquired majority ownership of the Toronto Raptors after purchasing Bitove Investments, Inc.
1997-11-20
Resignation of Isiah Thomas as Executive Vice President of Basketball
On November 20, 1997, Isiah Thomas announced his resignation as the Executive Vice President of Basketball for the team and his intention to sell his position with the club.
1998-02-12
Maple Leaf Gardens, Ltd. purchases Toronto Raptors Basketball Club Inc.
On February 12, 1998, Maple Leaf Gardens, Ltd. announced its acquisition of the Toronto Raptors Basketball Club Inc. as well as the Air Canada Centre.
1998-02-13
Promotion of Glen Grunwald to General Manager
Glen Grunwald was promoted to the position of General Manager on February 13, 1998.
1998-02-18
Toronto Raptors announce largest trade in club history with Boston
In February 18, 1998, Toronto Raptors made a significant move by announcing the largest trade in club history with Boston, involving seven players. This trade marked a major milestone for the team.
1998-04-22
Maple Leaf Gardens, Ltd. purchases the Raptors
On April 22, 1998, Maple Leaf Gardens, Ltd. announced the completion of the purchase of the Raptors and Air Canada Centre.
1999-01-21
Raptors Training Camp at Air Canada Centre
On January 21, 1999, the Toronto Raptors held their training camp at the Air Canada Centre for the first time.
1999-02-21
Transition to the Air Canada Centre
On February 21, 1999, the Toronto Raptors moved to the Air Canada Centre, now known as the Scotiabank Centre, where they currently play their home games.
1999-05-26
Vince Carter Named NBA Rookie of the Year
On May 26, 1999, Vince Carter was honored with the title of Schick NBA Rookie of the Year for his outstanding performance in his debut season.
1999-10-05
Raptors Training Camp Begins
On October 5, 1999, the Raptors started their training camp at Air Canada Centre for their first full season.
2000-04-12
Raptors Qualify for NBA Playoffs
On April 12, 2000, the Toronto Raptors made history by qualifying for the NBA playoffs for the first time in the club's history.
2000-06-21
Lenny Wilkens named head coach of Raptors
On June 21, 2000, Lenny Wilkens, the winningest coach in NBA history, was appointed as the new head coach of the Raptors.
2001-02-28
Charles Oakley becomes Raptors' all-time leading rebounder
On February 28, 2001, Charles Oakley achieved the milestone of becoming the Toronto Raptors' all-time leading rebounder by grabbing 11 boards in a game against Atlanta, surpassing Doug Christie's previous record of 1,448 rebounds.
2001-03-04
Vince Carter named NBA Player of the Week
On March 4, 2001, Vince Carter was named NBA Player of the Week after averaging 31.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists, leading the Raptors to four consecutive victories.
2001-04-03
Raptors secure second consecutive trip to the post-season
On April 3, 2001, the Toronto Raptors secured their second consecutive trip to the post-season by defeating the Sixers 100-85.
2001-04-18
Toronto sets franchise record for wins in a season
On April 18, 2001, Toronto Raptors defeated Washington 98-92, setting a franchise record for wins in a season at 47.
2001-05-04
Toronto Raptors' First Playoff Win
On May 4, 2001, the Toronto Raptors secured their first playoff win by defeating the New York Knicks with a score of 94-74 at Madison Square Garden.
2002-03
Toronto Raptors face injuries and set NBA record
At the start of the 2002-03 season, the Toronto Raptors faced a series of injuries leading to a dubious NBA record when they couldn't field a 12-man roster in a game. Key players like Vince Carter were affected by these injuries.
2003-10-29
Debut of Red Raptors Alternate Road Uniform
Canadian country singer Shania Twain helped unveil the new red Raptors alternate road uniform at the beginning of the 2003-04 season. The jerseys made their first appearance in a game against the New Jersey Nets, resulting in a season-opening victory for the Raptors.
2004-04-01
Firing of Grunwald and Coaching Staff
After falling short of the playoffs in the previous season, Raptors' President Richard Peddie dismissed General Manager Glen Grunwald and head coach Kevin O'Neill along with his assistant coaches. This decision marked a significant restructuring of the team's management and coaching staff.
2005-06
Bryan Colangelo hired as general manager
In 2005-06, Bryan Colangelo was hired as the general manager of the Toronto Raptors, replacing Babcock. He made an immediate impact by reshaping the roster and leading the team to significant improvements.
2006-01-15
Kobe Bryant scores 81 points against Raptors
On January 15, 2006, Kobe Bryant, a star player for the L.A. Lakers, scores an impressive 81 points against the visiting Raptors, marking the second-highest points scored in a single game in NBA history.
2007-03-01
Andrea Bargnani Named Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month
Andrea Bargnani was selected as the Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month for the second consecutive time on March 1, 2007. He became the third Raptor ever to win the award twice, following Vince Carter and Damon Stoudamire.
2007-04-24
Raptors' First Playoff Win in Five Seasons
On April 24, 2007, the Raptors secured their first playoff victory in five seasons with an 89-83 win over the New Jersey Nets. Despite ultimately losing the series 4-2, this win marked a significant milestone for the team.
2008-09
Jermaine O'Neal trade
The Toronto Raptors acquired six-time All-Star Jermaine O'Neal from the Indiana Pacers in a blockbuster trade before the 2008-09 season, aiming to strengthen their frontcourt.
2008-12
Firing of Mitchell and hiring of Jay Triano
In December 2008, Mitchell is fired after an 8-9 start and replaced by Canadian assistant Jay Triano.
2009-05-12
Jay Triano appointed head coach
On May 12, 2009, Jay Triano was appointed as the head coach of the Toronto Raptors for a three-year term.
2010-04
Raptors miss playoffs after Bosh injury
In April 2010, the Raptors miss the playoffs after a season-ending injury to Bosh coincides with a slide down the standings. Bosh later signs with Miami, joining fellow marquee free agents Dwyane Wade and LeBron James.
2010-11
Chris Bosh Leaves Toronto Raptors
Chris Bosh left the Toronto Raptors before the 2010-11 season to join LeBron James and Dwyane Wade in Miami, where he became a key part of future championship teams with the Heat.
2011-02-16
Miami Heat defeats Toronto Raptors
On February 16, 2011, the Toronto Raptors faced the Miami Heat in an NBA game at the Air Canada Centre, resulting in a 103-95 victory for the Miami Heat.
2012
Raptors acquire Kyle Lowry
In the summer of 2012, the Raptors make a trade with Houston to acquire point guard Kyle Lowry. He eventually teams with DeRozan to give the Raptors their greatest team success until that year.
2013-01-30
Raptors Acquire Rudy Gay
The Raptors acquired Rudy Gay and other players in a three-way deal, sending Calderón to the Pistons and Davis to the Grizzlies, improving the team's roster.
2013-12-09
Raptors Trade Rudy Gay
The Raptors traded Rudy Gay to the Sacramento Kings, receiving several players in return and reshaping the team's lineup.
2014-12-19
Raptors New Logo Launch
On December 19, 2014, the Toronto Raptors soft-launched a new logo featuring a basketball with claw marks, designed by Sid Lee. The launch was marred by a disorganized introduction and mixed reviews for the design.
2015-03-27
Raptors Clinch Atlantic Division Title
On March 27, 2015, the Raptors secured the Atlantic Division title by defeating the Los Angeles Lakers with a score of 94–83.
2015-04-11
Raptors Beat Miami Heat
The Raptors achieved their first road victory over the Miami Heat since November 19, 2008, by defeating them on April 11, 2015. This win marked Toronto's 48th win of the season and 22nd on the road, tying franchise records.
2015-06-25
Raptors Draft Delon Wright
On June 25, 2015, the Raptors selected Delon Wright as their first-round pick in the 2015 NBA draft.
2015-06-29
Raptors Introduce Raptors 905 Team
The Raptors announced the creation of their NBA G League team, Raptors 905, on June 29, 2015. The team started playing in the 2015–16 season.
2015-08-03
Toronto Raptors Uniform Redesign
On August 3, 2015, the Toronto Raptors unveiled new uniforms paying tribute to Toronto and Canada, featuring red, white, black, and silver colors. The design changes included chevrons pointing up and the incorporation of the 'We The North' slogan.
2016-02-10
Raptors Open OVO Athletic Centre
The Raptors inaugurated their new practice facility, the OVO Athletic Centre, on February 10, 2016, originally known as the BioSteel Centre.
2016-02-14
NBA All-Star Game Hosted by Raptors
On February 14, 2016, the Toronto Raptors hosted the NBA All-Star Game for the first time in franchise history, showcasing the city as a prominent basketball destination.
2016-03-30
Raptors Achieve 50-Win Season
With a 105–97 victory against the Atlanta Hawks on March 30, 2016, the Raptors reached their first-ever 50-win season.
2016-04-06
Raptors Secure Eastern Conference Regular Season Champions
On April 6, 2018, the Raptors became Eastern Conference regular season champions for the first time in franchise history, setting new records for single-season wins and home wins.
2017-02-14
Raptors Trade for Serge Ibaka
On February 14, 2017, the Raptors acquired Serge Ibaka from the Orlando Magic in exchange for Terrence Ross and a first-round pick.
2017-02-23
Raptors Trade for PJ Tucker
On February 23, 2017, the Raptors traded Jared Sullinger and two second-round picks for PJ Tucker.
2017-11-29
Toronto Raptors vs. Houston Rockets
The Toronto Raptors secured a victory with a score of 124-134 against the Houston Rockets on November 29, 2017.
2017-12-11
Atlanta Hawks vs. Toronto Raptors
The Toronto Raptors won against the Atlanta Hawks with a score of 129-122 on December 11, 2017.
2017-12-14
Toronto Raptors vs. Brooklyn Nets
The Toronto Raptors emerged victorious with a score of 101-124 against the Brooklyn Nets on December 14, 2017.
2017-12-16
Toronto Raptors vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
The Toronto Raptors faced a close defeat with a score of 118-117 against the Oklahoma City Thunder on December 16, 2017.
2017-12-18
Toronto Raptors vs. Dallas Mavericks
The Toronto Raptors secured a victory with a score of 104-130 against the Dallas Mavericks on December 18, 2017.
2018-01-01
DeRozan scores 52 points against Milwaukee Bucks
On January 1, 2018, DeRozan achieved a team record by scoring 52 points in a game against the Milwaukee Bucks, making him the third Raptor in history to score over 50 points in a single game.
2018-05-11
Casey Fired, Nick Nurse Becomes Head Coach
On May 11, 2018, Dwane Casey was fired as the head coach of the Toronto Raptors. He was later replaced by assistant coach Nick Nurse, marking a significant change in the team's leadership.
2018-06-14
Nick Nurse Becomes Head Coach
Nick Nurse was promoted to replace Dwane Casey as the head coach of the Toronto Raptors on June 14, 2018.
2018-07-18
DeRozan-Kawhi Trade
On July 18, 2018, DeMar DeRozan was traded to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green, marking a major roster change for the Toronto Raptors.
2019-01-13
Raptors Break Scoring Record
On January 13, 2019, the Toronto Raptors broke the record for most points scored in franchise history after beating the Washington Wizards 140–138 points after double overtime.
2019-02-07
Marc Gasol traded to Toronto Raptors
On February 7, 2019, Marc Gasol was traded to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for C. J. Miles, Jonas Valančiūnas, Delon Wright, and a 2024 second-round draft pick.
2019-05-12
Raptors Win First NBA Championship
The Toronto Raptors won their first NBA championship by defeating the Golden State Warriors 4–2 in the 2019 NBA Finals, with Kawhi Leonard being named Finals MVP.
2019-05-25
Toronto Raptors win NBA Eastern Conference Championship
Toronto Raptors fans celebrate as the team secures a 100-94 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, advancing to the NBA Eastern Conference Championship for the first time in the franchise's history.
2019-05-28
Toronto Raptors Published Online
The article about the Toronto Raptors was published online on May 28, 2019.
2019-05-30
Start of 2019 NBA Finals
The 2019 NBA Finals, the championship series of the NBA's 2018-2019 season, began on May 30, 2019.
2019-06-13
Toronto Raptors Win First NBA Championship
The Toronto Raptors won their first NBA championship by defeating the Golden State Warriors in the 2019 NBA Finals.
2019-06-14
Toronto Raptors Listed in The Canadian Encyclopedia
On June 14, 2019, the Toronto Raptors were listed in The Canadian Encyclopedia by Adam Francis. The entry provides information about the basketball team.
2019-06-17
Toronto Raptors NBA Championship Victory
The Raptors won their first-ever NBA championship in a thrilling game six in Oakland, becoming the first non-US team to achieve this feat. Kawhi Leonard was named Finals MVP for the second time in his career.
2020-02-08
Matt Morgan signs with Toronto Raptors 905 team
Matt Morgan signs a free agent contract with the Toronto Raptors and is assigned to the Raptors 905 team in the G League.
2020-12-01
Toronto Raptors playing home games in Tampa, Florida
Due to travel restrictions imposed by the Canadian government in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Raptors were unable to host games in Toronto and played their home games for the 2020–21 season at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida.
2021-02-28
Raptors' first game postponement due to COVID-19
On February 28, 2021, due to NBA's COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols, the Raptors suffered their first postponement in a scheduled game versus the Chicago Bulls, with five players missing due to safety protocols.
2021-03-03
Raptors loss to Detroit Pistons
After missing players due to safety protocols, including key players like Siakam, Anunoby, Lowry, and head coach Nurse, the Raptors lost 129–105 to the Detroit Pistons.
2021-09-10
Raptors returning to Scotiabank Arena with COVID-19 protocols
On September 10, 2021, the Canadian government allowed the Raptors to return to Scotiabank Arena for the first time since March 2020, requiring spectators to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination to attend.
2022-04
Scottie Barnes named 2022 NBA Rookie of the Year
Scottie Barnes, whom the Raptors had selected fourth overall in the 2021 NBA draft, was named the 2022 NBA Rookie of the Year.
2024-01-17
Raptors trading Pascal Siakam to the Indiana Pacers
On January 17, 2024, the Raptors traded Pascal Siakam to the Indiana Pacers for Bruce Brown, Jordan Nwora, Kira Lewis Jr., and 3 first-round picks.
2024-03-25
NBA Investigation on Jontay Porter's Gambling Activity
On March 25, 2024, Jontay Porter of the Raptors is under scrutiny in an NBA investigation regarding his involvement in gambling activities.