Toronto celebrated former point guard Kyle Lowry with a golden dinosaur statue dubbed the ‘GROAT’ at a block party outside Scotiabank Arena. The event sparked online jokes and even a viral Kevin Love cameo.
Toronto hosted a festive block party on Saturday to honor former Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry, unveiling a towering golden dinosaur dribbling a basketball and wearing Lowry’s No. 7 jersey. The tribute, labeled the “Greatest Raptor of All Time,” was displayed outside Scotiabank Arena and featured a nameplate reading “Kyle Lowry | 2012‑2021, 2026.”
According to an AOL report published on September 20, 2026, fans immediately took to social media to mock the unconventional design, dubbing it the worst statue in NBA history and questioning why Lowry himself was not depicted.
The statue’s dinosaur motif, echoing the Raptors’ mascot, quickly became a meme magnet, with users posting jokes about the franchise “doing Lowry dirty.” Observers noted that while Lowry’s six‑time All‑Star career and 2019 championship run cement his legacy, the choice of a literal raptor sparked a wave of online trolling.
Sports Yahoo, also dated September 20, 2026, highlighted the party’s lively atmosphere, noting that former NBA star Kevin Love made a surprise appearance and went viral for taking playful shots at the newly unveiled statue, further amplifying the night’s buzz.
Earlier reports indicated that Lowry’s celebration extended beyond the statue, with the former guard receiving a key to the city of Toronto and a special dinner to recognize his contributions to the franchise. The ceremony also hinted at the upcoming retirement of his jersey during the 2026‑27 season, underscoring the lasting impact of his tenure with the Raptors.
As the Raptors look ahead to the new season, the golden ‘GROAT’ stands as both a tribute and a conversation starter, reflecting the city’s affection for Lowry and the playful spirit of its fan base.