Kyle Lowry has received a key to the city of Toronto, where he spent nine seasons with the Raptors, helping the team win its first NBA Championship. Mayor Olivia Chow presented the Key to the City to Lowry on Saturday during “Kyle’s Block Party” at Maple Leaf Square that was held to celebrate his career with the Raptors. Lowry retired as a Raptor this past summer, and his No. 7 jersey will be retired in January during a special ceremony at Scotiabank Arena. “Kyle Lowry gave Toronto more than unforgettable moments on the court, he gave our city his heart. His leadership, determination and generosity reflect the very best of Toronto,” Mayor Chow said in a statement. “Kyle will always be a champion, a proud Torontonian and the Greatest Raptor of All Time. It is an honour to present him with the Key to the City.” Hundreds of fans gathered at Maple Leaf Square, also known as “Jurassic Park,” for the free event on Saturday, which featured exclusive merchandise pop-ups, giveaways, and food and beverage stations. Lowry has been widely regarded as the “GROAT,” or Greatest Raptor of All Time. He remains the franchise’s all-time leader in assists, steals, and three-point field goals made. Lowry will become the second player in Raptors history to have his number retired, joining Vince Carter, whose No. 15 was raised to the rafters at Scotiabank Arena in November 2024. With files from Jermaine Wilson
