In case you missed the NBA D-League’s national tryout in New York City this past June, there’s still a chance to pursue your common-man dream of playing professional basketball in 2015-16.
Last season, 18 teams competed in the NBA’s developmental league. Next year there will be 19, with the addition of Raptors 905. The affiliate of the Toronto Raptors, the newest D-League club, is located in Mississauga, Ontario, a short distance from its parent ball club. The “905” portion of the name comes from the Toronto area code.
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Being a new franchise, Raptors 905 is clearly in need of fresh bodies to don the uniform when D-League play begins in November. The team selected 16 players in an expansion draft last month, but apparently it is still looking for more.
Raptors 905 will hold open tryouts on Saturday, Sept. 19 at 9:30 a.m. However, if you’re planning to make the trip up to Mississauga to give it a shot, make sure to bring $275 with you to cover the registration fee (unfortunately it’s too late to sign up at the discounted “early bird” rate of $225). Included is a free T-shirt and a pair of tickets to a Raptors 905 game.
Here’s more from the official press release:
"“We are excited to watch the local players showcase their talent,” said Raptors 905 General Manager Dan Tolzman. “With this being the only NBA Development League tryout held in Canada this season, we expect a strong turnout.”Space for the tryouts is limited and closed for public viewing. Interested participants should register early to guarantee their place. Hopefuls should arrive prepared to participate in team drills, individual skills work and scrimmages. Raptors 905 coaches and staffers will be on hand for player evaluations."
And for any locals worried about the tryouts being overly successful, the FAQ page of the Raptors 905 website states the following:
"Is there a limit to the number of Canadians allowed on an NBA D-League roster?There are no restrictions to the number of Canadians allowed on an NBA D-League roster."
The NBA D-League — It’s fan-tastic.
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