Replace Toronto Raptors banner with "NBA Champions"
The Issue
As Toronto and all Canadian basketball fans welcome back Kawhi Leonard in search of a second championship. let us address a decidely un-canadian blemish on our first one.
The 2019 Toronto Raptors' banner in Scotiabank Arena proudly proclaims "World Champions." For many fans, including myself, this wording does not resonate with the humble and honest nature that we Canadians, and particularly Raptors fans, embody. As a nation and a community, we take pride in our achievements while maintaining a respectful perspective towards the rest of the world. We don't need to exaggerate our accomplishments; winning the NBA Championship in itself is a remarkable feat worthy of celebration.
The phrase "World Champions" is not reflective of the reality. The title is given for triumph within the National Basketball Association (NBA), which, despite featuring talents from around the globe, is not a worldwide tournament. Many other sports leagues around the world, including those with more international play, maintain the specific titles, such as "League Champions" or "National Champions."
Changing the banner to read "NBA Champions" aligns with the truth and integrity that we value. It demonstrates a grounded acknowledgment of our team's success without overextending our claims. The alteration also represents the diverse fan base that values cultural sensitivity and global awareness.
Further, an adjustment in our phrasing becomes an opportunity to open a broader dialogue within professional sports communities around the terminology we use. It serves as a reminder that while we celebrate outstanding accomplishments, we do not discredit the achievements of athletes and teams outside our league.
Rewriting the banner to "NBA Champions" respects the uniqueness of the Raptors' journey while staying true to our principles as Canadians. It acknowledges our win with accuracy and pride, aligning with our national ethos of humility.
Sign this petition if you believe in accurately representing our achievements and supporting the values of humility and honesty in sports!
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The Issue
As Toronto and all Canadian basketball fans welcome back Kawhi Leonard in search of a second championship. let us address a decidely un-canadian blemish on our first one.
The 2019 Toronto Raptors' banner in Scotiabank Arena proudly proclaims "World Champions." For many fans, including myself, this wording does not resonate with the humble and honest nature that we Canadians, and particularly Raptors fans, embody. As a nation and a community, we take pride in our achievements while maintaining a respectful perspective towards the rest of the world. We don't need to exaggerate our accomplishments; winning the NBA Championship in itself is a remarkable feat worthy of celebration.
The phrase "World Champions" is not reflective of the reality. The title is given for triumph within the National Basketball Association (NBA), which, despite featuring talents from around the globe, is not a worldwide tournament. Many other sports leagues around the world, including those with more international play, maintain the specific titles, such as "League Champions" or "National Champions."
Changing the banner to read "NBA Champions" aligns with the truth and integrity that we value. It demonstrates a grounded acknowledgment of our team's success without overextending our claims. The alteration also represents the diverse fan base that values cultural sensitivity and global awareness.
Further, an adjustment in our phrasing becomes an opportunity to open a broader dialogue within professional sports communities around the terminology we use. It serves as a reminder that while we celebrate outstanding accomplishments, we do not discredit the achievements of athletes and teams outside our league.
Rewriting the banner to "NBA Champions" respects the uniqueness of the Raptors' journey while staying true to our principles as Canadians. It acknowledges our win with accuracy and pride, aligning with our national ethos of humility.
Sign this petition if you believe in accurately representing our achievements and supporting the values of humility and honesty in sports!
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Petition created on July 1, 2026