Raptors' Collin Murray-Boyles Explains His NSFW Reaction at the NBA Draft: 'It Was a Crazy Moment'

Published: June 26, 2025

The Toronto Raptors' 2025 NBA Draft selection, Collin Murray-Boyles, made headlines not only for being picked No. 9 overall but also for his expletive-filled reaction when his name was called.

Murray-Boyles, a 20-year-old power forward from South Carolina, was caught on camera by ESPN uttering an F-bomb as he got up to walk to the stage after being selected by the Raptors. The moment was met with a mix of shock and amusement from fans and commentators alike.

However, according to SI.com, the real reason behind Murray-Boyles' reaction was far from anger or disappointment. "A lot's going through my mind, but just really, really, really excited for the future," he explained. "That was a surreal moment to hear my name called by this organization that has a good history and have really good players right now. It was a crazy moment."

Raptors general manager Bobby Webster shed more light on the team's draft process, revealing that they don't directly tell players they're being drafted. "My take on it was, [we] don't tell them," Webster said. "A lot of people tell you, and so I don't think he knew. I think maybe, you know, I think it was truly sort of a reaction to it happening."

Murray-Boyles described his emotions as "just disbelief" and explained that the excitement really sank in when he got to the Barclays Center and saw the atmosphere of the green room. He also shared his enthusiasm about moving to Toronto, citing the city's passionate fans and diversity.