LeBron James sends heartfelt message to Vince Carter ahead of his jersey retirement ceremony

On the eve of the Toronto Raptors scheduled jersey retirement ceremony for NBA legend Vince Carter, who is tied with LeBron James for the most seasons played in the league, the Los Angeles Lakers defeated Toronto Raptors. Carter became the first player in Toronto's history to have his No. 15 jersey retired as it was hoisted into the air during the team's game against the Sacramento Kings. A banner was displayed in Scotiabank Arena with Carter's jersey number and a picture of his well-known between-the-legs dunk from the 2000 Slam Dunk Contest. 

When media questioned LeBron James about the Raptors' choice to retire Carter's jersey after the game, the Lakers star gave a heartfelt tribute, highlighting Carter's influence on both the sport and Canada.“[Carter’s jersey retirement] makes all the sense in the world, with what he’s done for this franchise, the impact that he had in this community, and the way he changed how basketball is looked at in Canada. Well deserved,” James told reporters following the Lakers’ win, via Josh Lewenberg of TSN.

CONGRATULATIONS VINSANITY!!!! @mrvincecarter15 🫡. DOPE!! ♾️ IMMORTALIZED IN THE 6!!!

— LeBron James (@KingJames) November 3, 2024

LeBron tied Carter's record for the most NBA seasons played this season, but James is probably going to continue and set even another record. LeBron was asked to list his favorite Vince Carter memories in addition to his sincere homage. He quickly mentioned a few well-known plays. 

Vince Carter was picked by Toronto Raptors in 1998 NBA Draft

Vince Carter, who was selected fifth overall in the 1998 NBA Draft, spent six and a half seasons in Toronto and is widely considered the finest player in Raptors history. Carter led the Raptors to their first postseason berth in 1999–2000, their first playoff series victory in 2000–01, and four All-Star games while playing for Toronto. He was named Rookie of the Year in 1998–99. 

As a rookie, he received the Rookie of the Year award and was named to six All-Star teams for the Raptors. Induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the Brooklyn Nets retiring Carter's jersey during a game against the Miami Heat are both examples of Carter's achievements this season.