The Toronto Raptors have reignited the passion of their fan base, delivering meaningful basketball and a thrilling 11-5 start to the season. This resurgence hit a high note on Friday, November 21, 2025, with a decisive 140-110 victory over the Washington Wizards at Scotiabank Arena.
This win, combined with a Cleveland Cavaliers triumph over the Indiana Pacers, propelled the Raptors to a first-place finish in East Group A of the NBA Cup. More importantly, it made them the first team to advance in the tournament this season, finishing the group stage with a perfect 3-0 record.
A Resurgent Force in the NBA
For a franchise that has endured a difficult stretch, going 55-109 over the previous two seasons, this year's performance marks a dramatic turnaround. Their current 11-5 record is tied for the fourth-best 16-game start in the team's 31-season history.
Forward RJ Barrett, who scored a game-high 24 points in the win, encapsulated the team's sentiment. "It's been fun so far. Everybody's enjoying it and playing well, playing together," Barrett told Postmedia. "All the work that we've been putting in is just showing."
Team Chemistry and Defensive Focus Paying Off
Barrett and head coach Darko Rajakovic both pointed to improved health, a strong team culture, and a consistent defensive effort as the cornerstones of their success. "We've been saying it for a while, like, defence, we play hard, we play together. So now you're kind of seeing the fruits," Barrett explained.
Coach Rajakovic expressed his excitement about the team earning a spot in the NBA Cup knockout rounds. "I think it's awesome," he said. "I think our guys deserve the opportunity to compete in that setup... Definitely, we do have a vision and a desire to be there." The Raptors' impressive point differential means they are likely to host a win-or-go-home game at Scotiabank Arena on December 9 or 10.
Playing for Themselves and Their Fans
The players are not just motivated by competitive glory; there are also significant financial incentives in the NBA Cup. Each Raptor has already earned approximately $50,000 USD for advancing, with potential bonuses rising to over half a million dollars for winning the entire tournament.
Backup point guard Jamal Shead also highlighted the importance of rewarding the loyal Toronto fanbase. "These fans deserve it," Shead stated. "Last year... every single game was still sold out. So I think they deserve it more than anything."
With their sights set on the final rounds in Las Vegas, the Raptors' mission is clear. As backup big man Sandro Mamukelashvili put it, "Job ain't done. Just got to go out there and get to Vegas somehow." The NBA Cup semi-finals are scheduled for December 13, with the championship game on December 16.
