Veteran basketball star Kyle Lowry has drawn a close to his remarkable two-decade-long career in the National Basketball Association, choosing to retire as a cherished member of the Toronto Raptors. The announcement, made on Tuesday, July 7th, marks the end of an era for the accomplished point guard who played a crucial role in securing the Raptors' historic 2019 NBA championship.
Celebrated Point Guard Kyle Lowry Retires as a Toronto Raptor, Concluding a 20-Year NBA Journey
In a significant moment for basketball enthusiasts, Kyle Lowry, the celebrated 40-year-old point guard, officially declared his retirement on Tuesday, July 7th, 2026. Lowry, who famously wore the number 7 jersey for the Toronto Raptors, chose to rejoin the team for a ceremonial one-day contract to ensure his retirement as a Raptor. This decision underscores his deep connection to the franchise where he achieved significant milestones, including leading them to their first-ever NBA championship in 2019. Throughout his illustrious career, which began when he was drafted 24th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in 2006 after a collegiate career at Villanova, Lowry played in 1,187 regular-season games, averaging 13.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 6.0 assists. His journey also included stints with the Houston Rockets and Miami Heat, and he spent his final three seasons with his hometown team, the Philadelphia 76ers, where he also branched into broadcasting as an NBA analyst for Amazon. Lowry’s heartfelt message on social media conveyed his profound appreciation to everyone who supported him over the years—family, friends, teammates, coaches, opponents, staff, media, and especially the dedicated fans in Toronto and across Canada. He concluded his announcement by affirming his enduring bond with the Raptors, stating, "I'm retiring as a Toronto Raptor -- 20 years and 1 day. Seven forever. I love y'all. Peace." This makes him one of only two point guards to have played 20 NBA seasons, a testament to his longevity and dedication to the sport.
Lowry's retirement not only closes a chapter on a stellar individual career but also highlights the enduring impact a player can have on a franchise and its fan base. His leadership, tenacity, and pivotal role in the Raptors' championship run have cemented his legacy in Toronto and across the NBA. The emotion in his message reflects a deep gratitude, a sentiment often shared by athletes who leave a lasting mark on their sport. His decision to retire as a Raptor is a powerful gesture of loyalty and love for the team and city that embraced him, leaving fans and the organization with cherished memories of his contributions.
