In the game between the Atlanta Hawks and the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday, the Barclays Center crowd cheered “Retire 15!” — Vince Carter's jersey number in his five-season stint with the team.
After the game, Carter entertained the thought of having his jersey retired by the Nets.
“Whenever it’s talked about, you’re like, ‘Hey, I’d never deny it,’” Carter said, per Brian Lewis of the New York Post. “When you look up in the rafters here and see the group of people that’s up there, if I one day get that opportunity or that honor I’m OK with going up there, be with guys who I looked up to like Doctor J and a great teammate like J-Kidd.”
To recall, the Nets acquired Carter in 2004 in a trade package involving Alonzo Mourning, Aaron Williams, Eric Williams and two first-round draft picks.
Along with Jason Kidd, the then New Jersey Nets became perennial playoff contenders and made it to the Conference Semi-Finals twice. It was a short-lived partnership, but it created lasting memories for diehards — proof of which was felt in Carter's return, as he received several standing ovations from the crowd.
“It’s always great to receive a standing ovation coming into or checking out of the game. It’s always extra special when it’s a team I’ve played for before,” said Vince Carter, who walked to center court and waved to acknowledge the crowd afterward. “To come back here — and some of the other stops I’ve played for — and receive a standing ovation one last time is great.”
Time will only tell if the Nets will indeed retire Carter's jersey. However, Sunday's ovation certainly sent a pretty strong and clear signal that they should.
Follow Us
Subscribe