Even if he is a polarizing figure for most Toronto Raptors fans, Vince Carter's impact on basketball in Canada is undeniable.
A generation of aspiring ballers across the country grew up idolizing the Raptors' first superstar, which is why it's apt that his number will live forever in the rafters of Scotiabank Arena.
It will be a special evening for many Canadian basketball fans — one that Denver Nuggets star and Kitchener, Ontario's own Jamal Murray wishes he could attend.
"He took it to another level and showed me what the game could be," Murray said to reporters after the Nuggets' overtime win over the Raptors on Monday. "I wish I was there for it, the ceremony. I know it's going to be great. It's well-deserved.
"He's put a lot of inspiration into a lot of young kids and he's inspired me to put inspiration into others. Just comes full circle."
Murray is one of the leaders in this new era of Canadian basketball — which may shape up to be the greatest — alongside the likes of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, RJ Barrett and Andrew Wiggins for the men and Bridget Carleton, Kayla Alexander and Natalie Achonwa for the women.
Canadians are also well-represented in the NBA, with 22 in the best basketball league in the world. This is the 11th season that Canada is the most-represented country in the NBA outside of the United States.
Though the last time the Larry O'Brien trophy was north of the border was in 2019, and Canada hasn't medalled at the Olympics since its debut in 1936, the future is still bright for Canadian basketball—led by a generation inspired by Carter.
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