The Toronto Raptors have done it. After a thrilling six-game series, the Raptors have won the 2019 NBA Finals, making them the first Canadian team to ever win a championship. It was a hard-fought battle to get here, with the Toronto Raptors being pushed by the Golden State Warriors to the brink of elimination in Game 5. But last night, the Raptors put forth a dominant effort to secure their first ever NBA title.
Background: Raptors Take On Defending Champs
The Raptors entered the 2019 NBA Finals as the underdog against the reigning champion Golden State Warriors. Despite making it to the playoffs in each of the past five seasons, the Raptors had never advanced to the NBA Finals. This would be the first time in franchise history that they would have a chance to win a championship.
The Warriors had won three of the past four NBA titles and were looking to secure their fourth championship in five years. They had a talented roster led by two-time MVP Stephen Curry, four-time All-Star Klay Thompson, and Finals MVP Kevin Durant. The Warriors were the heavy favorites to win the series and secure their dynasty.
Game 6: Raptors Take the Crown
The Raptors and Warriors were tied 3-2 heading into Game 6. The game was a closely contested matchup and the Warriors led for most of the game. But the Raptors were able to get timely buckets and defensive stops in the fourth quarter to pull off the win and secure the title.
Kawhi Leonard led the way for the Raptors with 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists. He was named the Finals MVP, becoming the third player in NBA history to win the award with two different teams. He was also the first player in NBA history to have three game-winning shots in the NBA Finals.
Pascal Siakam had a strong performance in Game 6 with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 assists. He was the first player in NBA history to have at least 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 assists in a Finals game. Kyle Lowry also had an impressive performance with 26 points, 10 assists, and 7 rebounds.
The Raptors bench also played a crucial role in the win. Fred VanVleet had 22 points on 8-17 shooting, while Serge Ibaka added 20 points and 8 rebounds. The Raptors bench outscored the Warriors bench 44-25 and were a major factor in the victory.
Raptors Celebrate Historic Victory
The Raptors were ecstatic after their victory. The players hugged and cheered as the crowd erupted in cheers. The players celebrated their first ever championship with a parade through the city of Toronto. Thousands of fans lined the streets to celebrate the team’s historic accomplishment.
The Raptors have defied the odds and made history. They have become the first Canadian team to ever win an NBA title and they have done it in style. They have beaten the odds and have proven that they are a championship-caliber team.
Conclusion
The Toronto Raptors have won the 2019 NBA Finals, becoming the first Canadian team to ever win a championship. Kawhi Leonard was named the Finals MVP, while Pascal Siakam, Kyle Lowry, and the Raptors bench all had strong performances to help secure the victory. The Raptors celebrated their historic win with a parade through the city of Toronto and they will be remembered as the team that made history.