Kyle Lowry Returns to Toronto on One-Day Deal, Announces Retirement

Guard Kyle Lowry has signed a one-day contract with the Toronto Raptors, officially retiring from professional basketball, ESPN reports.

The 40-year-old veteran had previously vowed to retire as a player for the Canadian NBA team, with whom he won a championship in 2019.

Lowry, one of only 12 players in NBA history to play 20 seasons in the league, announced on social media his intention to re-sign with Toronto and conclude his career in the city he considers home.

The agreement is a special one-day contract, announced precisely on July 7th – a nod to the number 7 jersey the guard wore for the Raptors.

"Thank you to my family, friends, teammates, coaches, opponents, staff, media, and especially the fans. You are the most important. I am grateful to you. Thank you. Thank you to Toronto and Canada. And as I've always said, this is officially happening. I am retiring as a Toronto Raptors player – 20 years and one day. Seven forever. I love you. Goodbye," Kyle Lowry stated.

Born in Philadelphia and selected 24th overall in the 2006 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies, Lowry also played for the Houston Rockets, Miami Heat, and Philadelphia 76ers during his career.

Over 20 seasons, he averaged 13.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 6 assists in 1187 regular-season games. With 2209 three-pointers, he ranks 14th on the NBA's all-time list for long-range shots.

Kyle Lowry reached the playoffs in 12 of his 20 seasons and was a six-time consecutive All-Star between 2015 and 2020.