Kyle Lowry’s Emotional Return to Toronto

With just under two minutes left in Monday’s game against the Raptors, 76ers head coach Nick Nurse made the decision to bring in 20-year veteran Kyle Lowry.

The crowd’s reaction was unmistakable, erupting with chants of, “I want Rory!” as fans offered a standing ovation when he stepped onto the court after warming up.

At 39, Lowry has deep ties to Toronto, having spent nine seasons there. He played a key role in the Raptors’ 2019 NBA championship team alongside stars like Kawhi Leonard, Fred VanVleet, and Pascal Siakam. His significant impact on the community and basketball culture was evident during his return.

Looking ahead, Lowry plans to retire after this season.

“I had the chance to experience what might be among the best moments of my basketball career,” Lowry shared with the media post-game.

He further mentioned, “Our team has been really focused, and I think that part of their strategy was to ensure I got my moment. I have great teammates and a coach who gets it. It was a solid win for us.”

During his tenure in Toronto, he played in 601 games, averaging 17.5 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds. He holds records for the franchise in assists (4,277), steals (873), 3-pointers made (1,518), and triple-doubles (18).

While Lowry isn’t racking up stats like he used to—averaging just 7.5 minutes per game—he’s been crucial in mentoring the younger guards on the Sixers’ roster.

In his prime, he was a tenacious defender, a quality that he’s passed on to current standout Tyrese Maxey and rookie V.J. Edgecombe.

As the season progresses, the Sixers seem to be rounding into form with a healthy Joel Embiid and Paul George, currently sitting as the No. 5 seed in the East with a record of 22-16.