Collin Murray-Boyles addresses viral reaction after being selected by Toronto Raptors in 2025 NBA Draft

Collin Murray-Boyles didn’t have to wait long to hear his name called during the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft, as the Toronto Raptors selected him ninth overall on Wednesday night. He appeared to let out a F-bomb after hearing his name called.

This reaction stirred some controversy on social media, with many seeing his reaction as a negative one. Since Toronto finished this past season with a 30-52 record, perhaps he was hoping to be drafted into a win-now environment. Murray-Boyles clarified his viral draft moment while addressing the media after his selection.

“[It was] just disbelief,” Murray-Boyles said, via Raptors beat reporter Josh Lewenberg. “Toronto is the first team that I worked out for. What I said was not a bad thing. Just very thankful. That was a surreal moment. This organization has a good history”

Although Murray-Boyles knew Toronto was interested in drafting him — he didn’t actually know he was going ninth overall. According to Raptors GM Bobby Webster, Murray-Boyles’ reaction was raw emotion.

“We don’t tell the player,” he said, via Lewenberg. “A lot of teams will tell the players that they’re getting picked and so I don’t think he knew. I think it was truly a reaction to it happening. Maybe we should leak to them more.”

Reaction out of the way, the former South Carolina star now heads up north to Canada to be the newest addition to the Toronto Raptors roster. Murray-Boyles said he familiarized himself with how passionate the Raptors fanbase is, and is excited to get to get to know his new city.

On the court, Murray-Boyles brings consistency to the Raptors lineup. He impressed during a successful freshman campaign, averaging 10.4 points and 5.7 rebounds per game in 28 appearances. However, his impact only grew as a sophomore, improving his numbers to an average of 16.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.3 blocks per game in 32 appearances.

Despite his success, South Carolina finished 12-20 overall this past season. They were knocked out of the SEC Tournament in the first round by Arkansas.

While there is some uncertainty surrounding the future of the team’s roster, specifically speculation surrounding Toronto’s leading-scorer, RJ Barrett, and a potential trade away from the organization has made the rounds.

Whether that comes to fruition remains to be seen. For now, the Raptors will be looking toward Thursday’s second round of the 2025 NBA Draft, where they have the 39th overall pick, or ninth overall in the second round.