Date: October 31, 2025
Source: Toronto Raptors (YouTube)
After a gritty road win in Cleveland, head coach Darko Rajaković praised his team’s resilience, bench energy, and togetherness. The Raptors rallied back from a double-digit deficit to capture a key In-Season Tournament victory, powered by leadership, communication, and the spark of Jamison Battle off the bench.
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On the Team’s Resilience and Fourth-Quarter Fight
“The team was really fighting throughout the whole game. When the effort and good intentions are there, you can play through some mistakes. That was why we let those guys play in the fourth. The third quarter was the game — they got a 10-point lead, and something amazing happened in the huddle. Guys started to lift each other up, talk to each other, and from there we took control.”
On the Importance of the Win
“Every win is important. We approach every game with the same mentality. This was a cup game, so it had more meaning. People don’t understand what kind of group we have — guys that care so much. It wasn’t pretty, but how connected this group is and how they love and support each other is what motivates me to come to work every day.”
On Jamison Battle’s Impact
“He’s the ultimate professional. He does everything to stay ready. After shootaround, he stayed and played 20 minutes in our play group — 1-on-1s, extra work. That kind of commitment pays off. And he’s not alone — Jonathan Mogbo, Garrett Temple, all of those guys are always staying ready.”
On the Team’s Chemistry and Growth
“This is a new group of people. We started a rookie who played 20 minutes and guarded Mobley, one of the better players at his position. This group really cares about the right things. We talked about protecting the paint — today we held them to 40 points there. They’re growing, and they love to play for the city of Toronto and our fans.”
On Rookie Collin Murray-Boyle’s Fearlessness
“He’s going to have great nights and nights where things don’t go his way — that’s part of learning. He’s fearless and cares about the right things. He’s learning how to prepare his body and mind to play every other night. For him, it’s about staying on that path and continuing to work.”
Pulse Takeaway
Darko Rajaković’s postgame message was all about heart and connection. The Raptors’ comeback win wasn’t perfect, but it showcased trust, accountability, and the next-man-up mentality that’s defining this season. With bench energy sparking a turnaround, Toronto’s identity is taking shape — resilient, connected, and fearless.
Quotes from Darko Rajaković via Toronto Raptors (YouTube). Used for analysis and commentary.
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