Kyle Lowry received one of the most unusual tributes in Toronto Raptors history on Saturday. The franchise found a literal way to call him the greatest Raptor of all time, or GROAT.

During “Kyle’s Block Party” at Maple Leaf Square, the Raptors unveiled a new statue honoring Lowry’s nine-season run with the organization. Instead of creating a traditional statue of the former point guard, Toronto went with a gold Velociraptor wearing Lowry’s No. 7 jersey and holding a basketball.

The plaque underneath the sculpture made the message clear, which read, “The Greatest Raptor of All Time.”

Just for people asking: the Raptors did something similar for Vince Carter a couple years ago.

It was a Raptor doing a windmill dunk.

— Esfandiar Baraheni (@JustEsBaraheni) September 19, 2026

The tribute immediately sparked conversation among Raptors fans, particularly because Lowry’s claim to the title has long been shared with another franchise icon, Vince Carter.

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Lowry owns several major franchise records, including the most assists, steals, and 3-pointers in Raptors history, while Carter remains one of the most influential players in the team’s early history.

Lowry spent nine seasons in Toronto and became the face of the franchise during its rise to the 2019 NBA championship. He was a key part of that title team alongside Kawhi Leonard and finished his Raptors career as the franchise’s all-time leader in assists, steals, and made 3-pointers.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow also honored Lowry during the celebration by presenting him with the Key to the City. She called him “a champion, a proud Torontonian and the Greatest Raptor of All Time.”

The Raptors have already announced that Lowry’s No. 7 jersey will be retired at Scotiabank Arena on January 10, 2027. He signed a ceremonial one-day contract with Toronto this summer to officially retire as a Raptor.

The gold dinosaur statue will remain around Scotiabank Arena throughout the upcoming season.