Kyle Lowry

The architect of the Raptors' first championship and a six-time All-Star who turned a struggling franchise into a dynasty.

Kyle Terrell Lowry is an American former professional basketball player. Over eighteen NBA seasons, he established himself as one of the greatest Raptors players of all time, instrumental in turning the franchise from the post-Chris Bosh era into a championship contender. After initially coming off the bench behind Jose Calderon to start the 2012–13 season, Lowry took over as the starting point guard following Calderon's trade in January 2013 and led the team to their first-ever title in 2019, an Atlantic Division crown in 2013–14, and a franchise-record 56 wins in 2015–16. A six-time All-Star who won gold with Team USA in 2016, his career is defined by resilience and leadership.

Quick Facts

League: WNBA
Team: Toronto Tempo
Position: Minority owner
Born: 25 March 1986
Birthplace: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
High school: Cardinal Dougherty (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
College: Villanova (2004–2006)
Draft round: 1

Lore & Background

Lowry's journey to Toronto began when he was traded from Houston during the 2012 off-season, forming a backcourt duo with DeMar DeRozan. He began the 2012–13 season coming off the bench behind Jose Calderon, but after Calderon was traded in January 2013, Lowry took over as the starting point guard. In his second full season as a starter (2013–14), he helped end a six-season playoff drought and secured an Atlantic Division title. The following year, after General Manager Masai Ujiri challenged him to elevate his leadership from a '$3 million player' to a '$10 million player,' Lowry embraced the role of team captain. By 2015–16, he led the Raptors to a then-franchise-record 56 wins and their first-ever Eastern Conference Finals appearance. Known for his defensive intensity and ability to control the tempo, Lowry became the emotional core of the roster, guiding the team through years of contention until his trade to Miami in 2021.

Reader's Guide

Lowry's tenure as starting point guard (2012–2021) marks the most successful era in Toronto history. Fans should note that while he was traded to Miami before the 2019 title, his foundational work from 2012 onward created the culture necessary for that victory. Key turning points include the 2013–14 season where he averaged a career-best 17.9 points and 7.4 assists, and the 2015–16 campaign featuring a historic 56-win regular season. His legacy includes winning an NBA championship with the Raptors (2019), earning All-NBA Third Team honors in 2016, and securing Olympic gold in 2016. For new fans, understanding Lowry involves recognizing his role in transforming a lottery team into a perennial contender through consistent play and vocal leadership.

Did You Know?

Lowry was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies with the 24th overall pick in 2006 and played in the season opener, but a broken wrist suffered early in the year limited him to just 10 games total that season.
After being traded to Miami in 2021, Lowry was traded from the Heat to the Charlotte Hornets in January 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Kyle Lowry?

Kyle Terrell Lowry is an American former professional basketball player who spent nine seasons as the Raptors' starting point guard from 2012 to 2021. He is widely regarded as one of the most significant figures in franchise history.

How long did Kyle Lowry play for the Raptors?

Lowry suited up for Toronto from the 2012–13 season through 2020–21, covering nine full seasons as the team's lead guard. He entered the league as a first-round pick (24th overall) in the 2006 draft before eventually landing in Toronto.

Why is Kyle Lowry considered a Raptors legend?

He is credited with transforming the post-Chris Bosh roster into a genuine championship contender and anchoring the team's identity for nearly a decade. A six-time All-Star and 2016 Olympic gold medalist, his legacy as a franchise icon is cemented by his central role in securing Toronto's sole NBA title.