"I was teaching you how to dunk" - 2× Super Bowl champ jokingly dares Vince Carter to a dunk competition
Vince Carter has been regarded as one of the best dunkers in NBA history after numerous iconic dunks both in games and in the annual dunk contest. With Carter in his prime, two-time Super Bowl champion Eli Manning jokingly challenged him to a dunk contest.
In a congratulatory message after Carter’s jersey was retired by the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday, Manning joked about how he taught Carter all he knows about dunking before challenging him to a dunk contest.
“Congratulations on your jersey retirement. It feels like just yesterday that you and I were out n the driveway and teaching you how to dunk,” Manning said.
“I mean, sure, you added the 360s, the windmills, and jumping over seven footers but let’s not forget where it all started.”
Manning, who played 16 seasons in the NFL with the New York Giants, then jokingly said:
“And if you ever want a dunk contest, I’ve been working on my six-inch vertical, so just let me know.”
Manning was selected as the top overall pick in the 2004 NFL draft when Carter was already carving his name in the NBA with the Toronto Raptors. After seven seasons with the Raptors, Carter joined the New Jersey Nets, where he continued to showcase his explosiveness for five years wearing the No. 15 jersey.
During those five years from 2004-2009, Carter and Manning were among the top sports personalities in the New York and New Jersey area, creating shared fan bases. Carter went on to play for a record 22 seasons, only retiring in 2020 while he was with the Atlanta Hawks.
Manning said Carter inspired many fans in the New York area during his time playing with the Nets.
“In all seriousness, you’ve inspired so many Nets fans and basketball fans across the world for your competitiveness, your passion, and your love of the game," Manning said. "Enjoy this moment. After 22 seasons, you’ve earned every second of it … Congrats again on your amazing career."
Vince Carter reflects on time with the Nets
Although Vince Carter played five seasons with the Nets, he left an indelible mark on the franchise and its fans. He reflected on this in his speech during the retirement of his jersey number with the team.
“We had fun, but we understood when it was time to lock in … We hung out and actually enjoyed each other and played for each other, and that’s what made the game fun … I went out and did my job and had a darn good time doing it,” he said.
Carter played with legend and current Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd in the Nets before joining the Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks, Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings and the Hawks.
Carter won the 2000 NBA All-Star weekend Dunk Contest in one of the most iconic moments of the midseason event. More than just a dunker, Carter scored the 22nd most points in NBA history.