The 2025 NBA Draft was filled with emotion, but no moment sparked more buzz than Collin Murray-Boyles’ raw reaction to being selected ninth overall by the Toronto Raptors. As cameras zoomed in on the South Carolina forward, viewers caught him shaking his head and appearing to drop an F-bomb—instantly igniting a social media firestorm.
At first glance, fans speculated that Murray-Boyles was upset about landing in Toronto. But the 20-year-old quickly set the record straight in a post-draft interview.
“Just disbelief,” he explained. “Toronto is the first team that I worked out for. What I said was not a bad thing. Just very thankful. That was a surreal moment. This organization has a good history”.
Cameras caught Collin Murray Boyles dropping an F-bomb when he was drafted. He clarifies: “Just disbelief. Toronto is the first team that I worked out for. What I said was not a bad thing. Just very thankful. That was a surreal moment. This organization has a good history”
— Josh Lewenberg (@JLew1050) June 26, 2025
Far from being frustrated, Murray-Boyles was overwhelmed by the gravity of the moment—realizing a lifelong dream on one of the biggest stages in sports.
The clip of his reaction went viral within minutes. Was he mad? Shocked? Confused? The Raptors’ social media team quickly stepped in to calm the storm, posting a smiling photo of Murray-Boyles in his new Raptors cap with the caption: “See guys, he’s happy!!”.
See guys, he’s happy!! 😂 pic.twitter.com/CDwAmxLZQr
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) June 26, 2025
Murray-Boyles, known for his physicality and defense averaged 14.8 points and 8.2 rebounds in his sophomore season. Though not a consensus top-10 pick, his upside and work ethic made him a compelling choice for a Raptors team looking to rebuild its frontcourt depth.
