Wrapping up their 2024-25 campaign on April 13 against the San Antonio Spurs, the Toronto Raptors held their official exit interviews in a media scrum earlier today. In this session, many key Raptors players took the opportunity to share their thoughts on the past year and discuss their outlook for the future.
One gentleman who took the stage was Brandon Ingram, acquired by the Raptors earlier this year in a stunning trade deadline move.
Although he suffered an ankle injury in December with New Orleans that sidelined him until the season's end, optimism is growing among the Raptors' fanbase. They firmly believe he can return to full strength and regain the All-Star caliber form he once exhibited.
During his media availability, Ingram commented on a recent PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injection he received for his ankle injury, saying that he suffered a bit of agitation of late, but that his recovery was moving in the right direction.
Aside from addressing questions about his injury status, Ingram took the opportunity to commend his teammates, especially his co-star Scottie Barnes, as well as the Raptors' coaching staff. He notably highlighted the franchise's defensive-minded identity, offering high praise for their approach.
Ingram spoke highly of his new team, praising the Raptors for arguably setting the standard for strong-willed defensive efforts. He noted how the squad has put the league on notice regarding the team's grit, even if the mainstream eye often turns the cold shoulder to them.
Brandon Ingram's exit interview shows his faith in the Raptors
Ingram’s exact quote during the exit interview is as follows:
"It's a first-class organization. It teaches you how to be a professional. What I didn't know about the team is how much grit they had, on the defensive side of the basketball. They set a standard for every team that comes in here. They know about the Toronto Raptors defense. I have to go in and think about that in my offseason, how I want to be a reflection of my teammates, of how the organization has set a standard, also bring my offensive side of the basketball. "Brandon Ingram, April 14, 2025
I would have loved to see Ingram suit up for the Raptors this year, but unfortunately, the timing just wasn't right. However, hearing how motivated and rejuvenated he sounds about getting to work and embracing the Raptors' spirit shows what a consummate professional he is from a basketball standpoint.
People can say what they want about Ingram's defensive shortcomings (I've even mentioned it in a few pieces, so I'm definitely guilty), but I truly believe he's sincere in his commitment.
This team's future largely rests on Ingram taking another leap and proving to be a difference-maker—not just on offense, but also by being at least somewhat serviceable on defense.
Even though he hasn't stepped onto the Raptors' court yet, you can sense an inherent aura in the franchise's style of play that seems to be rubbing off on Ingram. That's definitely a positive sign for Raptors fans as they look ahead to next season.