Published 11:15 IST, June 5th 2020
Vince Carter's 22-year-long NBA career comes to an abrupt end, fans demand proper farewell
While Vince Carter did not want any pomp and celebration, his career came to an abrupt end due to the COVID-19 pandemic that caused the season to be suspended.
Advertisement
2019-20 NBA season is w officially set for a return as 29 team owners approved a proposal to resume play at Walt Disney World in Orlando during a vote on Thursday. NBA is looking to resume games by July 31 with 22 teams. Reports furr state that all teams will play eight regular-season games, followed by a play-in tournament to decide . 8 in both of conferences.
This format indicates that eight teams, including Atlanta Hawks, will t be returning in July. With Hawks being 11 games away from a playoff spot in Eastern Conference, Vince Carter's 22-year NBA career has w come to an end. Vince Carter anunced that he would be retiring after 2019-20 season and said he does t want any elaborate ceremonies like Dwyane Wade and Dirk witzki received.
Advertisement
Also read | Vince Carter retirement: Vince Carter could've played final shot of career incase of NBA return
Vince Carter NBA career ends in abrupt fashion
While Vince Carter did t want any pomp and celebration, his career came to an abrupt end due to COVID-19 pandemic that caused season to be suspended in March. Fans were unable to hour him during his final game and his last game ended up being Hawks' 136-131 loss to New York Knicks. Carter played 12 minutes during game, posting five points and one rebound. His final basket was off an assist from Trae Young for a three-pointer, where fans and his teammates cheered him on.
Advertisement
Vince Carter retirement: Final Vince Carter NBA career game
Also read | NBA targeting October 12 as last date for NBA Finals Game 7 in plan to wrap up season: NBA return
In post-game interview, Carter discussed what could have been his final game, accepting situation as it is. He stated that it was definitely a strange way to end his career. He reflected on t having any more games left, though re were 15 regular-season games remaining.
Advertisement
Carter accepted that he would be fine even if this was his last NBA game. He only thought it was 'weird', as y were getting briefed about situation and he thought 'this is it'. During press conference that night, Carter spoke about how Kobe Bryant was one who helped him come to terms with his retirement before his tragic death in January. Carter said that basketball has been good to him and he has enjoyed every single moment of it.
Vince Carter has played a record-breaking 22 seasons in NBA and is regarded as one of greatest three-point shooters despite t winning an NBA title or MVP award. Vince Carter made eight All-Star appearances, and also won Rookie of Year award in 1999. Carter led Toronto Raptors to ir first franchise playoff appearance and is kwn for delivering one of best Slam Dunk Contest performances in 2000. He will retire with a career aver of 16.7 points per game.
Advertisement
Vince Carter retirement: Will fans get a Vince Carter farewell game?
Fans have been suggesting various ways to hour Carter and give him a proper send-off, which includes signing with Raptors for post-season. Some fans are t ready for Carter to retire, wanting him to return for one final season. Most fans, however, were sad that one of ir favourite players would longer play on court.
Advertisement
11:15 IST, June 5th 2020