Toronto Raptors Returning To Home Arena After 19 Months On The Road Due To COVID

The Toronto Raptors are moving back north.

After spending 19 months playing “home games” at Amalie Arena in Tampa Bay due to the coronavirus pandemic and Canada’s strict travel restrictions, the Raptors announced that the team will be returning to its home arena for the upcoming season.

Fans will be welcomed back to Scotiabank Arena for the first time since February 28, 2020, on October 4, 2021, for an NBA preseason game against the Philadelphia 76ers.

While fans can return to the stands, there will be limited capacity.

In addition, the Raptors announced that all fans must show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test.

“We are optimistic regarding our ability to host full capacity events at Scotiabank Arena,” the team said, via TMZ Sports. “And as a reminder, all people wishing to access the arena — whether to attend an event as a spectator, or as a member of the media — will be required to show proof of vaccination for COVID-19 or proof of a medical exemption.”

The Raptors will then open the NBA regular season against the Washington Wizards on October 20 in front of their home fans. Welcome back, Toronto.