This Day in History: The Raptors Seal It

On June 13, 2019, the Toronto Raptors made history by becoming the first team outside of the United States to win an NBA championship. This monumental achievement was monumental not only for the Raptors, but for the entire country of Canada. As a long-term fans of the Raptors, we look back fondly at that amazing season and the incredible journey that led to the championship victory. In this blog post, we'll relive some of the most memorable moments of that season and why it remains special to us, still.

It was hard for many basketball fans to believe that the Raptors could acquire the star power necessary to win an NBA title. For years, the Raptors had been contenders, but they always fell just short every time. With the addition of Kawhi Leonard for the 2018-19 season, a deep playoff run was a legit reality. They started the playoffs that season with a renewed determination and an unbreakable spirit that carried them all the way to the championship title. 

The Raptors played with grit and heart throughout the playoffs, and they faced tough opposition in every round. They defeated the Orlando Magic, the Philadelphia 76ers, and the Milwaukee Bucks before facing the mighty Golden State Warriors in the Finals. The series was tied at one game each when the Raptors blew Game 3 wide open in Oakland, stunning the Warriors with an impressive 30-point rout. It was a turning point in the series, and the Raptors never looked back.

One of the most unforgettable moments of the series was Kawhi Leonard's incredible Game 7 buzzer-beater in the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the 76ers. In the final seconds of the game, the ball bounced off the rim four times before finally dropping through the basket. The arena erupted in cheers as the Raptors clinched the game and the series with the incredible shot. This was only one of many defining moments of the Raptors' championship run.

Another player who deserves a lot of credit for the Raptors' championship win is Kyle Lowry. He was the heart and soul of the team and was instrumental in every game. Lowry's leadership, his ability to score and distribute the ball, and his intangible impact on the team made him a standout in the playoffs. His selfless attitude and work ethic served as great inspiration to his teammates, and his dominant performance was a big reason why the Raptors won.

In the end, the Raptors beat the Warriors in six games in the Finals to claim their first-ever NBA championship. They made history not only for themselves but also for the city of Toronto and the country of Canada. The championship win was a long-awaited affirmation for Raptors fans, and it was one that they'll always cherish.

The Raptors' 2019 championship win was a season full of memorable moments, incredible performances, and a determination that was impossible to break. As a fan, it was a season filled with so many emotions and unforgettable moments that stay with me even today. It was a moment that Toronto locals will forever remember and cherish. It was a testament to the Raptors' resilience, never-give-up attitude, and the power of teamwork. That win was more significant than just an accomplishment for the team; it showed how far they had come, and it also demonstrated how great things can happen when people work together. It was an incredible moment that will be remembered forever, and it will always hold a special place in the hearts of Raptors fans, of which I am proud to be one.

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