Toronto Raptors: Top 5 small forwards in franchise history

Raptors small forward No. 3: Jerome Williams

In 2001, when Jerome Williams found out he was getting traded to the Raptors from the Pistons, he packed his bags and took a road trip in the middle of a February snowstorm all the way from Detroit to join his new teammates in Toronto.

That was the first of many reasons why it made him a fan favorite with Toronto Raptors fans everywhere. He helped the franchise finish with a 47-35 record and bag their first playoff series win later on. In the offseason, Toronto had seen enough to reward the big man with a seven-year, $40.8 Million contract.

The Junkyard Dog, as he was affectionately known, was notorious for his scrappy, high-energy plays. He was never the most talented on the floor and his career numbers barely average a double-double.

Jerome Williams was a Toronto Raptors fan-favorite

Toronto fans will always have a soft spot for players that play with grit and tenacity despite not being the most skilled at their position. JYD was strong enough to take on the biggest dogs in the yard and could easily haul rebounds down with one hand.

With his signature headband and knee-high socks, he found ways to create extra possessions on the defensive end through rebounding or hustling steals.

Off the court, he played an active role in the community working with at-risk youth and addressing social issues in the city. He always embraced the fans-with a wide toothy grin, signing autographs, giving high-fives or throwing t-shirts into the stands.

Although he only played out three years of his contract, he will always receive a warm welcome and a standing ovation anytime he comes into town.