The Toronto Raptors existed before Vince Carter, and they persisted long after he was gone. But he was the franchise’s first true love, one that burns to this day.
The number 15 is ubiquitous. Teenagers who only know Vince from YouTube swear by his name. The highlights loop endlessly, his elbow forever suspended in the hoop. His subdued retirement commands headlines, even though he last wore a Raptors jersey 16 years ago. To this day, the topic of how to honour Vince — if at all — remains the easiest gimmick on local sports radio. He is the most iconic player in franchise history.