Blazers Newcomer Powell Issues Thank You to Raptors Organization

Trail Blazers newcomer Norman Powell delivered a heartfelt goodbye to his former team after the dust settled from his departure from the Raptors. On Monday, the former UCLA guard highlighted his time Toronto and thanked everyone that supported him during his first six years in the NBA.

Powell’s message to the Raptors and the city of Toronto started with his arrival and concluded with his fondness for the area and the organization:

Honestly words can’t describe how thankful I am for the Toronto Raptors organization. You gave this kid from southeast San Diego a chance to fulfill a childhood dream of not only playing in the NBA but also winning a NBA Championship. From the moment I got out the car in Maple Leaf Square for my pre draft workout in 2015, I felt Toronto was the place for me. I’m truly going to miss the city, fans, my teammates and all the relationships I’ve built over the past 6 years. Thank you for embracing me and my Understand The Grind mentality as one of your own. The love and support never went unnoticed. I am grateful and blessed with many memories and experiences that I’ll never forget. Toronto will always be in my heart. I’m looking forward to the next chapter and the journey ahead. - With immense love Stormin Norman

Powell, who was selected with the No. 46 pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, was traded to Portland in exchange for Gary Trent Jr. and Rodney Hood. The former Raptors guard can hit the open market as an unrestricted free agent if he decides to decline his modest player option this offseason.