Toronto Raptors" wing RJ Barrett has broken his silence since the heartbreaking loss of his younger brother Nathan, discussing his return to the court for the first time since the tragedy.
Barrett, who lost his brother on March 12, revealed the thought process behind his decision to rejoin the team, citing what he believes his brother"s wishes would have been.
“If I know my brother, he would want me to be here, to be playing, to try to just continue to make the Barrett legacy grow," the 23-year-old expressed.
RJ Barrett speaks to the media for the first time since Nathan died March 12 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/4rYNG5IxXE
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 29, 2024
The Canadian basketball star missed the Raptors" previous eight games, with his last appearance dating back to March 11 against the Denver Nuggets.
His return to action is anticipated in Sunday"s home game against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Originally drafted by the New York Knicks as the third overall pick in 2019, Barrett made his mark in the Big Apple before being traded to his hometown team in December alongside Immanuel Quickley and a 2024 second-round pick in exchange for OG Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa, and Malachi Flynn.
Since donning the Raptors jersey, Barrett has showcased the best performances of his career, averaging 20.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.0 assists in 27 games.
However, despite Barrett"s stellar contributions, the Raptors have endured a challenging season, currently sitting 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 23-50 record and enduring a 12-game losing streak, including eight consecutive losses in Barrett"s absence.
Yet, with Barrett and promising rookie Scottie Barnes anchoring the team, there"s optimism for the Raptors" future success.
As they aim to conclude the season on a positive note, Barrett and the Raptors will seek redemption starting with Sunday"s matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers.
