The Toronto Raptors celebrated a significant moment in franchise history on Saturday, retiring Vince Carter’s No. 15 jersey in a special 23-minute halftime ceremony during their game against the Sacramento Kings. As the crowd watched, Carter’s jersey was raised into the rafters at Scotiabank Arena, making him the first player to receive this honor from the Raptors.
Another Raptors star, DeMar DeRozan, is also being considered for this honor, as he spent the first nine years of his NBA career with the Raptors. However, not everyone is on board with the idea of seeing DeRozan’s jersey in the rafters, most notably Canadian rapper and Raptors ambassador Drake.
Speaking during a TSN broadcast, Drake made it clear he isn’t in favor of the team retiring DeRozan’s number. “If you ever put up a DeRozan banner, I’ll go up there and pull it down myself,” Drake said.
“If you ever put up a DeRozan banner, I’ll go up there and pull it down myself,” Drake said.
Drake’s stance may have a bit of history behind it, as DeRozan recently appeared in the music video for Kendrick Lamar’s song Not Like Us. Many consider the song a diss track directed at Drake, which famously turned him into a hater of DeRozan.
Vince Carter Reflects On Patience And Passion During Jersey Retirement
Vince Carter couldn’t hold back his tears, visibly moved by the recognition from the Raptors organization and fans. Choosing to enter the Hall of Fame as a Raptors, Carter made it clear that Toronto holds a special place in his heart.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
In an emotional speech, Carter opened up about his deep connection with Toronto and his journey of patience and love for the franchise.
“I’ve been patient, and I’m going to continue to be patient because I understood a long time ago if you have an appreciation for something, love something like you do, people don’t see it; be patient, because it’s going to shine through,” he said.
Carter’s impact on the Raptors is undeniable. During his first six and a half seasons with the team, he was instrumental in leading them to their first playoff appearance. According to Statmuse, Carter played 403 games for Toronto, averaging 23.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists.
Also Read: What Tattoos Does DeMar DeRozan Have? Taking A Look At Sacramento Kings Star’s Unique Inks
