By Canadian Press

Toronto Raptors fans boo American national anthem as trade war heats up

Feb 2, 2025 | 2:11 PM

TORONTO — Fans at Scotiabank Arena loudly booed during the American national anthem before the Toronto Raptors hosted the Los Angeles Clippers.

They then switched to loud cheers when “O Canada” began.

The strong reactions to both national anthems was likely in response to a mounting trade war between Canada and the United States.

Fans also sang along with 15-year-old Kyra Daniel when she began the Canadian national anthem.

L.A. head coach Tyronn Lue also sang the Canadian national anthem in full.

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The trade war has been sparked by an executive order from U.S. President Donald Trump, raising tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports to the United States.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 2, 2025.

The Canadian Press

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Toronto Raptors forward Bruce Brown, left to right, forward Scottie Barnes and forward Chris Boucher react as fans boo the American national anthem before first half NBA action against the LA Clippers in Toronto on Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Frank Gunn

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