Basketball

Toronto Raptors. The city's NBA franchise, this team played its first season in 1995–96. For several years they struggled mightily to win both games and fans in this hockey-mad city, but the Raptors have finally come into their own, and games often sell out. Single-game tickets are available beginning in September; the season is from October through April. Air Canada Centre, 40 Bay St., at the Gardiner Expwy., Harbourfront, Toronto, ON, M5J 2X2. 855/985–5000 Ticketmaster. www.nba.com/raptors. Union.