Raptors to host their training camp in Calgary for the first time in late Septem

The Toronto Raptors have announced that they will be holding their training camp in Calgary for the first time in franchise history. The event will take place at the University of Calgary's Jack Simpson Gym from September 30 to October 2, with the sessions being closed to the public. An open practice is scheduled for October 3. This marks a significant move for the team, as they continue to expand their presence and fanbase across Canada. The decision to hold the training camp in Alberta is likely to generate excitement among basketball fans in the region.

Following the training camp, the Raptors will participate in a pre-season game against Jamal Murray and the Denver Nuggets on October 6 at Rogers Arena in Vancouver. This will be the seventh Canada Series game in Vancouver and the first since 2023. Tickets for the game are set to go on sale on August 27. The team's pre-season schedule also includes games against the Sacramento Kings in Sacramento on October 8, the Boston Celtics at Scotiabank Arena on October 10, and the Washington Wizards in Washington on October 12. They will then conclude their pre-season with a matchup against the Brooklyn Nets on October 17.

This move comes after the recent firing of longtime president Masai Ujiri in late June, which has led to a period of change and restructuring for the organization. The upcoming training camp and pre-season games will serve as an opportunity for fans to see the team's progress and for new management to connect with supporters across the country. The Raptors' decision to hold their training camp in Calgary underscores the team's commitment to growing the sport of basketball in Canada and reaching out to a wider audience.

The open practice on October 3 is a chance for Calgary fans to get an up-close look at the team and interact with the players, which is likely to be a popular event given the limited opportunities to attend professional basketball practices. The Canada Series game in Vancouver is also highly anticipated, as it showcases the NBA's popularity in Canada and the Raptors' strong connection with fans outside of their home market of Toronto.

The Raptors have a history of playing pre-season games across the country, with past games in cities like Winnipeg, Halifax, and Montreal. This latest announcement reinforces the team's commitment to engaging with fans across Canada and highlights the importance of the sport's growth in the nation. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the training camp and pre-season games are sure to be a source of excitement and anticipation for both fans and players alike.