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Raptors’ fans out in force for Game 2 of playoffs

Toronto Raptors forward Jonas Valanciunas, shoots while falling in front of Brooklyn Nets' Mason Plumlee, during first half NBA playoff basketball action in Toronto on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Frank Gunn

Maple Leaf Square, usually a haven for hockey fans, was awash in red and black Tuesday night as thousands packed the square to catch Game 2 of the Raptor’s playoff series against the Brooklyn Nets.

Many spoke of the pride in Toronto and how this success will inspire urban youth to get involved in the sport.

The enthusiasm accompanies an entire rebranding of the basketball effort here in Canada. The #WeAreNorth hashtag and “northern uprising” slogan is spreading quickly online and part of a move to impart some “street cred” for Toronto’s team.

Some fans feel the Raptors don’t get the respect they deserve in the league because of their Canadian roots. They’re hoping their success this year will change that.

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The Raptors dropped the first game to Brooklyn and are hoping to tie the series 1 – 1 with a victory tonight.

The next two games will be played in Brooklyn.

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