Collin Murray-Boyles' Candid Reaction at NBA Draft

When the spotlight shone brightly on the 2025 NBA Draft, Collin Murray-Boyles stood out not just for his talent but for his candid reaction. As the Toronto Raptors called his name with the ninth overall pick, the South Carolina forward responded with an unfiltered, “f***.”

At just 20 years old, Murray-Boyles’ reaction sparked immediate speculation about his feelings regarding the selection. However, he clarified his emotions during a post-draft press conference, stating, “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.”

The Raptors, who claimed the NBA championship in 2019 and have secured seven division titles in their three-decade history, are currently navigating a challenging phase with consecutive losing seasons. This backdrop led them to the draft lottery, yet their passionate fanbase remains unwavering in its support.

“I’m super excited,” Murray-Boyles added, reflecting on the vibrant basketball culture in Toronto. “I know how passionate the fans are, how diverse the city of Toronto is. To see that and to be around that environment on a daily basis is something that is going to make me a better player. That environment is amazing, the city is great.”

General manager Bobby Webster confirmed that Murray-Boyles was caught off guard by the selection process. “We don’t tell the player. A lot of teams will tell the players that they’re getting picked and so I don’t think he knew,” Webster explained. “I think it was truly a reaction to it happening. Maybe we should leak to them more.”

On this momentous night, Murray-Boyles was not alone. Seated beside him was his girlfriend, Chloe Kitts, a standout player for the Gamecocks women’s basketball team. Kitts, who celebrated a national championship victory in 2024 and earned SEC Tournament MVP honors in 2025, shared in the joy of his selection.

After Murray-Boyles’ name echoed through the venue, the couple embraced, and Kitts later posted a photo on her Instagram stories wearing his Raptors draft night hat. With her own professional aspirations on the horizon—eligible for the 2026 WNBA Draft and projected as a first-round pick—Kitts’ future looks bright alongside her partner’s burgeoning NBA career.