Kyle Lowry officially closed the curtain on one of the NBA’s most respected careers by retiring after 20 seasons. The six-time NBA All-Star signed a ceremonial one-day contract with the Toronto Raptors, allowing him to retire with the franchise where he became a legend and helped deliver the team’s first NBA championship in 2019.
Known for his toughness, leadership, and winning mentality, Lowry leaves behind a remarkable legacy that includes an unforgettable partnership with DeMar DeRozan, multiple All-Star appearances, Olympic gold, and a reputation as one of the greatest point guards of his generation.
Who is Kyle Lowry?
Kyle Lowry is an American former professional basketball player born on March 25, 1986, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Drafted 24th overall in the 2006 NBA Draft after starring at Villanova University, Lowry developed from a gritty backup guard into an NBA champion and franchise icon.
Throughout his career, he played for:
- Memphis Grizzlies
- Houston Rockets
- Toronto Raptors
- Miami Heat
- Philadelphia 76ers
His greatest success came in Toronto, where he became the heart and soul of the Raptors organization.
Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan: One of the NBA’s Best Duos
Few NBA partnerships were as memorable as Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan.
From 2013 to 2018, the pair transformed the Toronto Raptors into one of the Eastern Conference’s most consistent contenders. Their chemistry on and off the court helped Toronto reach multiple playoff appearances while changing the perception of basketball in Canada.
Although DeRozan was traded to acquire Kawhi Leonard before the 2018-19 season, Lowry remained with Toronto and helped guide the franchise to its historic NBA championship.
Despite playing on different teams later in their careers, Lowry and DeRozan remained close friends, and both have frequently spoken about their mutual respect.
Kyle Lowry Career Stats
Over 20 NBA seasons, Lowry built an impressive résumé.
Career averages
- Points: 13.8 PPG
- Rebounds: 4.2 RPG
- Assists: 6.0 APG
- Steals: 1.3 SPG
- Games Played: 1,187
Career achievements include:
- NBA Champion (2019)
- Six-time NBA All-Star
- All-NBA Third Team (2016)
- Olympic Gold Medal (2016)
- Toronto Raptors all-time leader in assists and steals
His impact extended well beyond the box score thanks to elite defense, leadership, and clutch performances.
Kyle Lowry Contract History
Lowry earned more than $278 million in NBA salary during his career, making him one of the highest-paid point guards of his era.
His final NBA contract came with the Philadelphia 76ers, where he signed a veteran minimum deal worth approximately $2.3 million for the 2025-26 season before announcing his retirement.
Earlier in his career, Lowry signed several lucrative contracts with the Raptors, reflecting his value as both a leader and elite floor general.
Kyle Lowry Retirement
On July 7, 2026, Kyle Lowry officially announced his retirement after 20 NBA seasons.
To commemorate the occasion, he signed a ceremonial one-day contract with the Toronto Raptors before holding an emotional retirement ceremony in Toronto. During his farewell, Lowry thanked teammates, coaches, fans, and his family while reflecting on the journey that made him the greatest player in Raptors history.
The retirement date also carried symbolic meaning, taking place on 7/7, a tribute to his iconic No. 7 jersey.
Did Kyle Lowry Retire?
Yes.
Kyle Lowry officially retired from professional basketball in July 2026 after completing a remarkable 20-year NBA career.
He retired as a member of the Toronto Raptors, cementing his place among the greatest players in franchise history.
Legacy Beyond Statistics
While Lowry’s numbers are impressive, his influence goes far beyond statistics.
He became known as one of basketball’s toughest competitors by:
- Drawing countless charges
- Playing relentless defense
- Leading by example
- Elevating teammates
- Delivering in clutch playoff moments
Many Raptors fans consider him the greatest player in franchise history because of his leadership during the team’s championship era.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Kyle Lowry retire?
After completing 20 NBA seasons, Lowry chose to retire with the Toronto Raptors, the franchise where he enjoyed his greatest success and won the 2019 NBA Championship.
How many championships does Kyle Lowry have?
Kyle Lowry won one NBA championship with the Toronto Raptors in 2019.
What were Kyle Lowry’s career averages?
He finished his NBA career averaging 13.8 points, 6.0 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game.
Did Kyle Lowry play with DeMar DeRozan?
Yes. Lowry and DeMar DeRozan formed one of the NBA’s best backcourts during their years together with the Toronto Raptors.
Final Thoughts
Kyle Lowry’s retirement marks the end of an unforgettable NBA career defined by resilience, leadership, and championship success. From his memorable partnership with DeMar DeRozan to leading the Toronto Raptors to their first NBA title, Lowry consistently proved that determination and teamwork could overcome any obstacle.
His legacy will be remembered not only through his impressive statistics and contracts but also through the culture he helped build in Toronto. As one of the greatest point guards of his generation, Kyle Lowry leaves the game with the respect of teammates, opponents, and basketball fans around the world
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