precious achiuwa toronto raptors

Fireworks inside Scotiabank Arena startle Toronto Raptor player

It was an electric start to the Toronto Raptors' 2022-23 season with a real nail-biter of a W at Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday evening.

The Raptors kicked off the season with a 108-105 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in a back-and-forth slugfest, but it's a moment during the team’s pregame introductions that has everyone on social media is talking about the next day.

As the home team intros began, Raptors' power forward Precious Achiuwa reacted in apparent terror to celebratory fireworks set off in the arena, instinctively ducking and covering his head before playing it all off as if nothing happened.

Achiuwa's reaction to the fireworks had Raptors fans chattering well before the tip-off officially started the team's 2022-23 campaign for greatness.

Some are wondering if Achiuwa thought there was an active shooter situation unfolding in the building.

Fans are also noting the way Achiuwa attempted to casually play it off like he didn't just flinch in terror in front of a crowd of approximately 20,000 fans.

What some might remember is that this exact same thing happened last year, when home arena fireworks sent Achiuwa into duck-and-cover mode.

Precious logged 10 points and 5 rebounds in just under 18 minutes in Wednesday's thrilling season opener.

Lead photo by

Toronto Raptors


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in Sports & Play

15 incredible hiking trails in and around Toronto

The 50 best rooftop patios in Toronto right now

The top 5 quarries and swimming holes near Toronto

The top 25 beaches in and near Toronto

10 boat rental options in Toronto

50 beaches in and near Toronto you need to visit this summer

Canada's Wonderland's newest attraction is planned to open this month

Toronto Blue Jays players dish on their fave places and things about the city