At the 2024 Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Carter tearfully thanked Kobe Bryant
On October 14, the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place in Beijing, marking a significant moment in the world of basketball.
This year’s inductees include Simone Augustus (Player), Dick Barnett (Player), Chauncey Billups (Player), Vince Carter (Player), Doug Collins (Contributor – Coach/Broadcaster), Michael Cooper (Player), Walter Davis (Player), Haley Reddin (Coach), Bo Ryan (Coach), Herb Simon (Contributor – Team Owner), Charles Smith (Coach), Michelle Timms (Player), and Jerry West (Contributor – Team Manager).
For many fans, players like Carter, known as “Half Man, Half Amazing,” and Billups, often referred to as “Mr. Big Shot,” symbolize a generation of memories. Meanwhile, Jerry West, entering the Hall of Fame for the third time as a “Contributor,” represents the high honor and legacy in the game.
When discussing Carter, the first thought for many is his iconic dunks. The artist of the rim has always blended power and aesthetics in his dunking prowess. He recalls a childhood obsession with the dunk contest, spending sleepless nights recording and studying the events. “I began practicing in high school and college, even rehearsing the handshake with Stern while lifting the trophy.”
During games, Carter would often scan the court before unleashing a 360-degree dunk on a fast break. His legendary performance in the 2000 All-Star Dunk Contest solidified his place in basketball history. With a series of breathtaking moves, including a left-side approach, a windmill dunk from behind the backboard, and a leap from the free-throw line, he transformed everyone’s perception of what a dunk could be.
When asked about his most cherished sports memorabilia during the induction ceremony, Carter revealed that it is a photo with his childhood idol, Julius Erving, taken at the 2000 Dunk Contest—a significant piece he keeps stored away.
Carter’s career has certainly been remarkable, spanning 22 seasons. When asked how he extended his playing days, he emphasized the importance of dedication, stating, “I did whatever it took to stay on the court.” Competing alongside younger players, he maintained discipline and preparation, often arriving early to the gym and training longer.
Even in his final season, he struggled to say goodbye. Reflecting on that time during his speech, he recalled asking Kobe Bryant about retirement while watching a Nets game. Kobe’s assurance that life after basketball was a beautiful journey brought him peace. “Kobe taught me that it’s okay to move on. For so many years, you can be a competitor, but when it’s time to leave, you need to prepare for the next chapter. Thank you, Kobe,” he said, fighting back tears.
With Carter’s induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, the great shooting guards from the “West Coast, East Coast, North, and South” eras are now cherished memories.
This ceremony also came shortly after the passing of Jerry West in June at the age of 86. A 14-time NBA All-Star, West left behind an indelible legacy in basketball.
Regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history, West dominated in an era where centers were pivotal, captivating fans with his unique insight into the game. Over his career, he averaged 27 points and 6.7 assists per game, boasting an impressive shooting percentage of 47.4%. He became one of the rare players to average 40 points per game in a single playoff season.
Known as a phenomenal shooter, West seemed destined to score on the court. He believed in a simple formula for shooting success: “Just keep your arms relatively straight… use your legs, and follow through well, and shooting becomes easy.”
His classic long-range shot, which famously drew the nickname “Mr. Clutch,” is a testament to his ability to thrive under pressure. The NBA’s “Clutch Player of the Year Award” is named in his honor.
As a rookie, West scored 38 points, grabbed 15 rebounds, and dished out 10 assists while matched up against Wilt Chamberlain. In Game 7 of the 1969 Finals, he delivered a remarkable 42-point, 13-rebound, and 12-assist performance, leading the Lakers until the final moments. Over his 14 years with the Lakers, he guided the team to nine Finals appearances, making history as the only player to win the Finals MVP award while on the losing side.
During his tenure as the Lakers’ general manager, West was instrumental in creating the iconic “Showtime” era. He later brought in legends like Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, and coach Phil Jackson, shaping another championship run for the franchise. His foresight led to retaining Klay Thompson, paving the way for the “Splash Brothers” to dominate the league.
Additionally, players like Cooper and Billups shared their own career highlights, expressing gratitude to their families, teammates, and rivals during the ceremony.
