“Go shoot some free throws” — Vince Carter’s mom has been one of the guiding forces in his life. And it’s good to see that great things are happening for her son this year. An NBA 2K25 cover appearance, a Hall of Fame induction next, and now his jersey retirement by the Toronto Raptors. The most recent and first-of-its-kind honor in Toronto brought out some real emotion for the mother-son duo.

Overtime shared a video on X, captioning it “This moment between Vince Carter and his mom ❤️”. The video featured Vince and Michelle Carter, shedding tears of joy and pride as the 8x All-Star’s jersey got raised to the rafters.

You could almost feel the pride and joy radiating through the screen as his No. 15 jersey took its place in the rafters. Now, think back to Vince Carter’s unforgettable years with the Raptors. From 1999 to 2004, he led them to three straight playoff appearances. And that 2001 showdown against Allen Iverson’s 76ers still lives rent-free in many basketball fans’ minds.

Vince Carter’s time at the Toronto Raptors earned him 2 All-NBA selections and 5 straight All-Star nods. But behind every legendary moment, there’s often a guiding voice. For Vince, it was his mom. The hooper’s push to perfection wasn’t by chance—it was nurtured.

Not our words, but something that the 22-season veteran said after his selection as one of the 2024 Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame finalists. “One thing I’ll say about her[Michelle], when she was mad at me, it was easy to say ‘Go to your room’. But the one thing she said to me…’You weren’t very good at free-throw shooting. Get out of my house and go shoot some free throws.'” 

Michell Carter’s bond with her son is a reflection of why she would write an entire book about raising his superstar son!

Vince Carter’s mom, Michelle, is a true inspiration

Michelle Carter’s memoir, The Making of Vince Carter: A Basketball Mom’s Memoir, was released on May 29, 2023. The book offered readers a heartfelt glimpse into what it takes to raise an NBA legend. Sure, we all know Vinsanity for his show-stopping dunks and clutch performances, but how many of us have wondered about the relentless work behind the scenes?

Michelle’s book peels back the curtain, sharing stories of dedication, discipline, and a mother’s unwavering belief that helped shape Vince into the star we admire. Reading her words feels like sitting down with someone who’s been through it all. Her experience as a corporate executive, educator, and mom shines through, adding depth to each chapter. It’s easy to see how her support allowed the 22-season NBA legend to thrive on the court without the weight of the world on his shoulders.

You wouldn’t believe but Michelle Carter also had a role in the No. 15 that Vince had picked in high school! “I don’t remember what made me pick 15, but I’m glad I did,” he said. “Mom told me, hey, pick a number, make it famous.”

Kevin Durant once said, “Mothers are the real MVPs,” and Michelle Carter proves just how true that is.