Toronto Raptors fans in Kingston turn out to Market Square for Game 1

It was only a couple of days ago Kingston city councillor Robert Kiley prompted city staff to see if the NBA Finals could be shown on the big screen in Springer Market Square behind city hall.

Fast forward to today, and by tipoff time, at least 2,000 fans were on hand to watch the Toronto Raptors square off against the Golden State Warriors.

Romeo Ibit, wearing his Raptors Jersey and 2019 NBA Finals cap, says game one in Market Square is a great way to kick off the series.

For many in the crowd, like Jaime Santo, there is a sense of sport history possibly in the making.

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

“Game one — first in franchise history,” Santo said.

“It’s a huge moment, not just for the Raptors but for Canada.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "It's a huge moment, not just for the Raptors but for Canada."

The Raptors are the only remaining Canadian team in the NBA and the first to make it to the finals.

The city of Kingston has secured at least the first four games to broadcast in Springer Market Square.

Game two is on Sunday June 2.

WATCH: Jerome Williams says history of the Raptors ‘is being written’

0:53 Jerome Williams says history of the Raptors ‘is being written’