The excitement in Toronto isn’t over yet as the city has planned a victory parade and fan rally to celebrate the Raptors‘ NBA Championship title for Monday.
Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment (MLSE) said in a news release that the parade is set to start at 10 a.m. at the Princes’ Gates, located on the Exhibition Place grounds.
It will head east on Lake Shore Boulevard West to York Street, then north towards University Avenue before entering Nathan Phillips Square for a celebration rally with the fans from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
City of Toronto officials said road closures will be in place as early as 9 a.m. around the parade route.
Raptors president Masai Ujiri said the team is looking forward to showing off the Larry O’Brien Trophy in the city, knowing how much it means to fans in Toronto and across Canada.
“Bringing the NBA Championship to Toronto is the realization of a goal for our team and for our players, and we are thrilled to be able to celebrate together with our fans.”
The parade will feature double-decker buses carrying the team with the trophy as they head to city hall for the fan rally. MLSE said it expects to have a large crowd before the parade’s arrival.
WATCH: NBA Finals — The moment Raptors win NBA title captured across Toronto
Toronto Mayor John Tory said everyone at city hall will be coordinating with MLSE, Toronto Police Service, TTC, GO Transit and other partners to make sure the parade is a memorable event for fans.
“We are so proud of our Toronto Raptors and this history-making finals run,” Tory said.
“On behalf of the residents of Toronto, I want to congratulate and thank the players, coaches and the entire Toronto Raptors organization for bringing home our city’s first NBA championship!”
The City of Toronto is reminding the public to plan ahead on Monday. City officials recommend taking public transit, cycling, walking or ride hailing as those travelling into and out of the city could experience significant delays.
The TTC will be adding additional resources to accommodate the crowds and diverting some routes that conflict with the parade.
Metrolinx said extra GO trains will be available if needed to shuttle fans between Union Station and Exhibition GO.
The Union Station Bus Terminal will remain open with all routes running during the parade. The public should check schedules for access to Exhibition Station, they said.
Fans are expected to be out in full Raptors colours and gear for the rally. A parade viewing party will also be taking place at Coronation Park, located near the start of the parade, to help relieve congestion along the route.
— With files from Gabby Rodrigues.
WATCH: Toronto Raptors clinch NBA Championship in Game 6 win over Golden State Warriors