This week 22 years ago the 1995-96 Vancouver Grizzlies and the Toronto Raptors made history as the first NBA teams to play in Canada since 1946–47's Toronto Huskies. While Toronto originally competed in the Central Division, The Grizzlies were part of the Midwest Division of the Western Conference and became the NBA's 29th franchise.
"TORONTO, Nov. 2— No matter what happens Friday night at the Skydome, it is guaranteed to make history.
Opening night in the National Basketball Association has arrived, featuring the debut of two Canadian expansion teams -- the Toronto Raptors and the Vancouver Grizzlies. While the Grizzlies are opening on the road against the Portland Trail Blazers, the Raptors will make a festive debut against the Nets, before a crowd that is expected to surpass 30,000."
-Words of Clifton Brown for The New York Times Published: November 2, 1995.
Both teams on this day would walk off the courts victorious. The Grizzlies got off to a solid start defeating the Portland Trail Blazers on the road 92–80 and two nights later on November 5, the Grizzlies had a successful home debut at General Motors Place by beating the Minnesota Timberwolves in overtime, 100–98. The Raptors debut game did not disappoint either with a 94–79 victory over the New Jersey Nets.
Enjoy these tidbits of nostalgia from 2 decades ago below.
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