It was an emotional day for Toronto when the Raptors announced that they would retire Vince Carter‘s jersey. Yes, the iconic No. 15 jersey will forever remain in history. This marked him as the first player in franchise history to receive this honor. Team president Masai Ujiri revealed this decision as he revealed the decision during a community event in Toronto.
At this time, an outdoor basketball court was renovated in Carter’s name. During the event, Vince Carter was visibly emotional as he shook hands with Ujiri. The retired player acknowledged the significance of this honor in a city he considers a second home. The moment captured on video has gained a lot of traction on social media platforms.
I was extremely grateful when the Raptors informed me of their plans to retire my jersey in November in the arena that gave me my start in the NBA and was the home of so many special memories for me. I look forward to sharing that moment with my family, friends and the Toronto fans who made my time with the Raptors so memorable.
Vince Carter said in a statement after the announcement
The dunk master began his NBA career with the Raptors after the Golden State Warriors traded his draft rights in 1998. Over the course of more than six seasons in Toronto, he amazed fans with his skill set and iconic dunks. Furthermore, he averaged 16.7 points and 4.3 rebounds per game while he shot 43.5% from the field.
Vince Carter is emotional receiving the news that the Raptors will retire his jersey. 🙏
(via @adam_la2karis)
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) September 27, 2024
While Vince Carter was known for his dunks, he had an impressive resume. This includes eight All-Star selections and two All-NBA team honors. Later, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in August. It turns out that the Toronto Raptors are not the only ones wanting to honor Carter.
Brooklyn Nets to honor Vince Carter as well
Apart from the Toronto Raptors, the Brooklyn Nets had announced an official date to honor Vince Carter. They will also retire his iconic number 15 jersey. The ceremony is scheduled for January 25, 2025. The Nets will retire the jersey during a home game against the Miami Heat at 6 p.m. ET.
Come fly with us.
The date has been set for @mrvincecarter15’s big night! pic.twitter.com/sAJd2eY8wD
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) September 19, 2024
His time at the Nets was filled with great memories. Carter achieved career-high averages of 27.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game over his five years with the team. His impressive performance solidified his reputation as one of the game’s greats. He will join a select group of retired numbers in the franchise, including Drazen Petrovic, Jason Kidd, and Julius Erving.
Fans will be excited about the date set aside for the ceremony as it coincides with a competitive matchup against the Miami Heat. Every legend should be honored. Carter will soon join the exalted company of legends honored by multiple teams.
