Alright, hoop heads, buckle up! Vince Carter’s jersey retirement is about to be one for the ages.
Vinsanity Hits the Rafters
So, get this: On November 2nd, the Raptors are finally giving Vince Carter’s No. 15 the honor it deserves. When they face off against the Kings at Scotiabank Arena, it’s going to be a night to remember. Josh Lewenberg broke the news on X, and honestly, it’s about time!
"Nearly 26 years after scoring the first-ever basket at Scotiabank Arena, VC will be the first player in the franchiseโs 30-year history to have his jersey go into the rafters," Lewenberg tweeted. Can you believe it took this long?
Setting the Stage for Future Raptors Legends
Carter’s jersey will be the first to grace those rafters, but don’t worry, Kyle Lowry fansโhis No. 7 isn’t far behind. The Raptors are finally catching up to their hockey counterparts, the Maple Leafs, who have honored 19 players already.
Raptors president Masai Ujiri hinted at this last season, saying, "I hope the fans can [move on] and we can embrace an unbelievable player." I think he’s right. It’s time to let bygones be bygones and celebrate the man who put Toronto on the basketball map.
Brooklyn Gets in on the Action
Just days before Toronto’s big announcement, the Brooklyn Nets decided they’d retire Carter’s No. 15 too. Their ceremony is set for January 25 against the Heat. Looks like Vince is getting double the love this season!
Remember, Carter was originally drafted by the Warriors in ’98 but was traded to Toronto on draft night. He spent his first seven seasons lighting it up for the Raptors. We’re talking 9,420 points, 2,091 rebounds, and some jaw-dropping dunks. Half man, half amazing indeed.
Stats That Speak Volumes
In his 403 games with the Raptors, Carter averaged 23.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists. He shot nearly 45% from the floor and over 38% from beyond the arc. And let’s not forget that epic 51-point game against the Suns in 2000. Dude was on fire!
Carter hung up his sneakers in 2020 after an incredible 22-season career and was inducted into the Hall of Fame this past August. If you want to be part of this historic night, tickets for the November 2 game are available now on Vivid Seats.
Speaking of trades, did you catch that wild Curry rumor? Anyway, back to Vince…
So, what do you think? Will this jersey retirement finally mend fences between Carter and Raptors fans? Or is there still some lingering bitterness? Let me know your thoughts!
