They say image is everything.
If so, Hedo Turkoglu's greatest contribution to the Toronto Raptors may have come last summer when he inked a five-year, $50 million contract, helping change the image of Canada's sole NBA franchise.
Now Turkoglu didn't just pick Toronto. He left Orlando, the defending Eastern Conference champions. Then like something out of 'The Bachelor', he verbally committed to the Portland Trail Blazers before reneging on his word and leaving basketball mad 'Rip City' at the alter.
The Turkish swing, as the prize free agent of 2009, proved Toronto is a sought after destination.
Its diversity appeals to players in an increasingly diverse league. Europeans like Andrea Bargnani, Jose Calderon, and Turkoglu can stroll through parts of Toronto and feel they've been transported home.
They'll hear their native language. They'll see their local customs. They'll eat comfort food they grew up on. Most importantly, they'll connect with fellow countrymen living abroad.
American players are showing love, too. Last November, Mo Williams, a guard with the Cleveland Cavaliers, had this to say about Canada's largest city.
A lot of people underrate Toronto, but it has everything that New York can offer. It has a huge fan base, probably bigger. The city is just as nice as New York. The night life is on par. The weather is very similar. All it is really missing is the rich basketball history. (David Aldridge, NBA.com)
Williams' comments are a far cry from the past when American stars wanted the first ticket out of Toronto. For instance: original Raptors like Damon Stoudamire and Isiah Thomas bolted town; Tracy McGrady headed south to Florida as a free agent; and Vince Carter and Antonio Davis both left on the worst of terms.
The real test will come in July when Chris Bosh, the Raptors' franchise face and All-Star, hits free agency. Expect Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, the wealthy holding company that owns the Raptors, to re-sign Bosh or get back valuable assets via a sign-and-trade.
The Turkoglu contract established Toronto as a legitimate basketball market, bigger than any player -and that's no image.
Got thoughts on the Turkoglu contract? Get at Breaking Down The NBA in the comment box below. Photo courtesy of jrg1975.
BC need to confirm that JO is committed to the Raptors
And JO said he love's Toronto and how the fans are "better" than Indiana (After he was traded again in Miami)
VC also liked Toronto, he just became immature about losing