Kawhi thanks Toronto in introductory press conference with Clippers
The Kawhi Leonard era of Toronto Raptors history didn't last long, but the two-time Finals MVP expressed his appreciation for the franchise and city during his introductory press conference with the LA Clippers on Wednesday.
"I want to thank the Toronto Raptor fans," Leonard said. "I don't have social media so I'm not able to put out a paragraph or whatever. I just want to thank all of Toronto, the city, the country. It was a great, amazing season. Best parade ever.
"Thanks to the doctors for delivering my baby boy ... I also want to thank the city as far as the restaurants, you know, giving up that 'Ka'wine-and-Dine' throughout the playoffs. I took advantage of that. The players, they already know what's up. Text, FaceTime me, we'll talk. The coaching staff as well and the whole organization really, I just thank the whole city. Thank you."
Leonard was treated like royalty in Toronto after leading the Raptors to their first NBA title. Several restaurants participated in a "Ka'wine-and-Dine" program that allowed the superstar to eat for free in the hopes he would re-sign.
The 28-year-old produced several marquee moments for the organization during his lone season north of the border, including a buzzer-beating, series-clinching shot in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Leonard averaged a career-best 26.6 points and 7.3 rebounds before joining the Clippers on a three-year deal as a free agent.