The Toronto Raptors announced Wednesday that they will sport a special Canadian Forces fourth jersey later this season. The camouflage–style jersey is the first of its kind in the NBA and will make its in-game debut as part of the Raptors annual Canadian Forces Night on March 21 at Air Canada Centre when the Raptors host the Chicago Bulls.
“We’re excited to be the first NBA team to have a jersey that honours the work of military personnel,” said Tom Anselmi, executive vice-president and chief operating officer of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment. “This jersey is just a small gesture that shows our organization’s commitment and appreciation for the men and women who serve our country.”
The jersey is a natural extension of the Raptors and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment’s longstanding support of Canada’s military. The team’s Canadian Forces jersey has a distinct Canadian flavour with a maple leaf featured in centre on the back neck of the jersey, emphasizing that the Raptors are Canada’s team.
The Raptors fourth jersey is prominently featured in the NBA 2K12 video game. An official unveil of the Raptors Canadian Forces jersey will take place in the New Year. In addition to the March 21 game, the new uniform will be worn during the following home games: Monday, March 26 versus the Orlando Magic, Sunday, April 1 versus the Washington Wizards and Monday, April 16 versus the Atlanta Hawks.
