Jan 25, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Former NBA star Vince Carter speaks at a jersey retirement press conference before a game between the Brooklyn Nets and the Miami Heat at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images John Jones-Imagn Images

NBA Legend Vince Carter Makes Heartfelt Julius Erving Statement

Originally posted on Fastbreak on SI | By Ben Stinar | Last updated Jan 26, 2025 3:28 AM ET

On Saturday evening, the Brooklyn Nets hosted the Miami Heat at Barclays Center in New York.

However, all of the attention was on former Nets star Vince Carter, who had his jersey officially retired by the organization.

Via The Brooklyn Nets: "The seventh Nets jersey in the rafters—Vince Carter."

The seventh Nets jersey in the rafters—Vince Carter. pic.twitter.com/6lLzUChVcK
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) January 26, 2025

Carter's number is going up next to Hall of Famer Julius Erving.

When Carter was inducted into the Hall of Famer he had Erving (and Tracy McGrady) beside him.

The eight-time NBA All-Star was asked about Erving on Saturday.

Reporter: "Not a lot of guys get to have their number go up next to their idol. What does that mean for you?"

Carter: "I have so much respect for Doc... Trace was an easy call for Hall of Fame... Dr. J was kind of like, I'm gonna make the call and he didn't answer the first time... Weeks go by and I hear nothing from Dr. J. And I received that phone call from him and he was like I would love it. I would love it... And that means so much... For somebody as iconic as Dr. J. was my hero to call me and be like heck yeah I'll do it... I'm truly honored. Period. He said yes and now I get to go up beside you... It's crazy."