Magloire becomes first Canadian to play for Toronto Raptors

TORONTO, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) — Toronto-native Jamaal Magloire became the first ever Canadian-born player to play for the Toronto Raptors on home court on Wednesday’s NBA games.

He was scoreless with four rebounds in 13 minutes off the bench in the 90-85 defeat against the Indiana Pacers.

Magloire was selected by the team to present the annual welcome speech to the fans before the game.

This moment could have occurred eleven years before, but fate was not on the Raptors’ side. During the 2000 Entry draft, the Raptors had their eyes on Magloire. Unfortunately, he was taken two picks earlier with the 19th overall pick by the Charlotte Hornets.

Magloire had played for Charlotte, New Orleans, Portland, New Jersey, Dallas and Miami Heat.

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/sports/2011-12/29/c_131333704.htm