The Toronto Raptors will finally hang up the franchise’s first jersey, a fan-favorite guard who was once adored by the city.
Toronto will retire, old cornerstone Vince Carter’s jersey on Nov. 2 during their matchup against the Sacramento Kings, according to Josh Lewenberg of TSN Sports. The 47-year-old was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in August, though his official induction has yet to take place.
The Brooklyn Nets (formerly known as the New Jersey Nets) also announced plans to hang Carter’s jersey in the rafters.
Carter, an eight-time All-Star during his 22-year NBA career, spent his first six seasons north of the border. For a Florida kid who attended a southern university, the University of North Carolina, it must have been a culture shock. But Carter became a man in Canada. In fact, he became “half man, half incredible.”
One of the most gifted players the league has ever seen, young Carter had it all. His explosive athleticism at 6-foot-6 and 220 pounds gave him the typical physical profile of a wing. He was a shooter who could score at every level. He was a playmaker from his first day in the league, which certainly helped him win Rookie of the Year honors. Last but not least, he made a huge impact as a defensive event creator.
During his time with the Raptors, the Daytona Beach native averaged 23.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.0 blocks per game. He led Toronto to three consecutive playoff appearances, their first playoff appearance in franchise history. Carter also memorably won the NBA’s slam dunk contest in 2000, with images of his aerial assault still etched in the memory to this day.
Frankly, this was the best period of his career. Carter had a bit more playoff success with the Nets, but when he was at his best, he was with the Raptors. While there is some tension in their relationship since the way he left Toronto, nothing can change his impact on the franchise.
More NBA: Vince Carter’s jersey retirement; why the Raptors legend will be the first player in franchise history to receive an honor
