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Kawhi Leonard’s first regular-season game back with the Toronto Raptors brought back plenty of memories, and few people felt them more than Serge Ibaka.
The former Raptors big man was at Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday night as Leonard made his return to Toronto in a 135-92 rout of the Chicago Bulls. Speaking with Sportsnet during the game, Ibaka reflected on what it meant to see his 2019 championship teammate back in a Raptors uniform.
“I think he always loved this place, you know. Sometimes we make decisions, you know, because of business side,” Ibaka said. “But I’m glad he realized, you know, Toronto is home for him. And he wants to come back here and to finish what he started here.”
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"Watching him play here [again] on this court. There are so many beautiful memories." 🥹❤️@sergeibaka joined @SNMichaud to chat about watching Kawhi's return to the Raptors. pic.twitter.com/XXjAg6vQlY
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) October 22, 2026
Ibaka admitted the night stirred up emotions from that title run.
“Yes, so many memories,” Ibaka said. “Watching, sitting out there and watching him play here on this court. Yeah, bring so many beautiful memories.”
Leonard famously left Toronto for the Los Angeles Clippers in free agency after leading the Raptors to the first championship in franchise history. Seven years later, he is back. Toronto agreed to acquire him in a June trade that sent Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick and multiple draft picks to Los Angeles, though the deal was not finalized until September amid an NBA investigation into the Clippers. Leonard then signed a contract extension with the Raptors.
Ibaka believes the situation mirrors what happened when Leonard first arrived in Toronto.
“I think it’s kind of a little bit similar situation. Like when he came, you know, with us, it’s a new group,” Ibaka said. “These young guys, last year they had a great year. Adding Kawhi with them, I think they’re going to be a lot better this year.”
Leonard backed that up in his return, scoring 23 points and going a perfect 11-of-11 from the free-throw line. Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley each added 23 points, while RJ Barrett chipped in 20 as Toronto never trailed.
Ibaka also gave his approval to Barnes for keeping Leonard’s famous “What it do, baby” line alive.
“I mean, I like that because he’s keeping that going,” Ibaka said.
The Raptors will look to stay hot when they visit the Washington Wizards on Friday.
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