“You’ve Been An Inspiration To A Generation”: Toronto Raptors Guard Pens Emotional Message For Vince Carter

When the NBA season came to a halt on March 11, it cruelly put an end to a legendary career. Fans knew before the start of the 2019/20 season that this would be the final year they’ll be seeing Vince Carter in the NBA. The 42-year-old hinted at retirement before the season began, but never would he have thought that it would end this way. 

The persisting impact of the coronavirus has caused the NBA to take drastic measures in order to complete the current season. The league was skeptical between canceling the season and resuming it. Finally, early in the month commissioner Adam Silver announced the return, which would only comprise 22 teams from both conferences. 

Carter’s Atlanta Hawks are 14th in the East, which means they will not be a part of the NBA’s return. Thus, this officially ends Vince Carter’s career, as his team won’t be making it to the postseason. There has been no other player in the NBA with longevity like Carter. With 22 regular seasons, he is leading the list of professionals who have served the most number of seasons in the NBA. 

Such a glorious career deserved a proper send-off in front of thousands of fans. However, the coronavirus spoiled Carter’s retirement party and the Hawks player formally announced it on June 25th. 

Kyle Lowry congratulates Vince Carter on his retirement

Vince began his NBA career by playing for the Toronto Raptors. He played with the Raptors from 1998 to 2004. Carter won the Rookie of the Year by playing for the Raptors, and his nickname ‘Air Canada’ originated from his high-flying abilities on the court. 

Now, a current Raptors star wants to salute him for all the achievements over the years. 2019 NBA champion Kyle Lowry posted a photo of him and Carter on Instagram, wishing the eight-time All-Star a happy retirement. 

“You’ve been an inspiration to a generation, Lowry wrote. “You’ve meant soo much to the game of basketball not just in the cites you’ve played in but THE COUNTRY OF CANADA!! You deserve everything that will be coming to you in the future!!”

Evidently, Lowry was shocked to hear Carter’s sudden announcement. The 34-year-old posted a heartfelt message to the former Raptor, who unfortunately is ending his career without a championship ring. However, Carter will always be an inspiration for the insane things he can do with a basketball in his hand. Happy retirement, Vinsanity!