CM Punk appeared on Friday’s edition of The Pat McAfee Show, where he discussed a range of topics, including the differences between working under Triple H and Vince McMahon.
Punk highlighted Triple H’s openness to feedback and willingness to consider other people’s ideas—something he believes was less common under McMahon. However, he also acknowledged the importance of having a definitive leader in charge.
“I think he’s receptive to other people’s ideas, whereas maybe Vince wasn’t. He was like, ‘I’m the boss. We’re doing this, and this is how we’re doing it.’ And that’s great. If you run a company, you need somebody who is the yes and no man and [has] the final say.”
Punk continued, emphasizing Triple H’s collaborative approach:
“But I think Triple H thinks he’s surrounded, and oftentimes is, by a lot of really, really genius wrestling minds. If he has an idea or see something one way, he’ll look at Michael Hayes and be like, ‘What do you think?’ He’ll turn and look at Paul Heyman. These are people who have Bonafide resumes. They have literally done everything you possibly could do in the sport. I think their voices should be heard. Not all the time everybody’s going to have this dynamite idea. But I think the best idea always wins in today’s WWE.”
Punk also noted that he prefers not to discuss backstage dynamics publicly, as he believes it can come across as disingenuous.
In a recent interview with PWMania, CM Punk opened up about his thoughts on the leadership styles of Triple H and Vince McMahon. Punk, who has worked closely with both men during his time in WWE, had some interesting insights to share.
When asked about Triple H’s leadership style, Punk described him as a “player’s coach.” He praised Triple H for being approachable and for genuinely caring about the well-being of his talent. Punk also noted that Triple H is more willing to listen to the ideas and feedback of the wrestlers, which creates a more collaborative atmosphere backstage.
On the other hand, Punk had a different perspective on Vince McMahon’s leadership style. He described McMahon as a “dictator” who rules with an iron fist. Punk acknowledged McMahon’s incredible success in building WWE into a global powerhouse but also criticized him for being out of touch with the current wrestling landscape. Punk suggested that McMahon’s stubbornness and unwillingness to change are holding WWE back from reaching its full potential.
Overall, Punk’s comparison of Triple H and Vince McMahon’s leadership styles sheds light on the different approaches to running a wrestling company. While Triple H is seen as more open and collaborative, McMahon is viewed as a powerful but sometimes rigid leader. It will be interesting to see how these contrasting styles continue to shape the future of WWE.
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CM Punk, Triple H, Vince McMahon, leadership styles, comparison, WWE, wrestling, professional wrestling, CM Punk interview, WWE executives, leadership qualities, wrestling industry leaders, Triple H leadership style, Vince McMahon leadership style
WWE superstar CM Punk returned to the company after a 10-year absence just over a year ago, and he returned to a drastically different landscape. When Punk left, under a cloud, WWE was ruled with an iron fist by Vince McMahon. Now, Punk has opened up about the dramatic shift in WWE’s creative landscape since McMahon’s departure. The Voice of the Voiceless drew a clear line between the autocratic era under McMahon and the more collaborative environment ushered in by Triple H, arguing that this change has made the company a better place for creative minds, speaking on The Pat McAfeeShow ahead of this weekend’s Royal Rumble.
Punk recalled his experiences under McMahon’s reign, describing McMahon’s management style as a strict top-down approach. “I think he’s receptive to other people’s ideas, whereas maybe Vince wasn’t. He was like, ‘I’m the boss. We’re doing this, and this is how we’re doing it,’” Punk explained. While he acknowledged that any organization needs someone with the final say, he contended that McMahon’s methods left little room for creative input, and that his methods actually stifled any creativity when things got stale.
CM Punk Says Triple H’s Approach is Working
In stark contrast, Punk praised Triple H for his willingness to listen and adapt, which does have a certain irony given the well documented animosity between the pair when Punk left the company. Indeed, Punk’s release papers were allegedly sent to him on his wedding day. But time heals all wounds, and for Punk, the company is now in the right hands.
“Triple H thinks he’s surrounded, and oftentimes is, by a lot of really, really genius wrestling minds. If he has an idea or sees something one way, he’ll look at Michael Hayes and be like, ‘What do you think?’ He’ll turn and look at Paul Heyman,” Punk noted.
Despite his praise for the current leadership, Punk was quick to sidestep any in-depth discussion of the backstage dynamics. “I don’t like talking publicly about the backstage vibes because it comes across as BS,” he admitted.
WWE is clearly embracing a new era where everyone has a say, and the clear collaboration between all parties is evidently making the product better for the fans and the wrestlers too, which is a huge factor in why the product is so hot now.
WWE Raw streams every Monday on Netflix at 8 PM ET. Stay tuned to Collider for more WWE news.
In a recent interview, former WWE superstar CM Punk made a shocking revelation about the current state of the company, stating that WWE is much better now that Vince McMahon is no longer in charge. Punk, who left WWE in 2014 amidst controversy and has since found success in the world of MMA and acting, explained that McMahon’s departure has allowed for a new era of creativity and talent to flourish.
According to Punk, McMahon’s micromanaging and outdated ideas were stifling the growth and potential of WWE superstars. With McMahon out of the picture, Punk believes that the younger generation of wrestlers have more freedom to showcase their skills and connect with audiences in a more authentic way.
Punk also praised the new leadership in WWE for their willingness to listen to the feedback and ideas of the talent, creating a more collaborative and inclusive environment. This shift in mentality has led to more opportunities for wrestlers to shine and for fans to enjoy a fresh and exciting product.
While McMahon’s influence will always be felt in WWE, Punk’s comments shed light on the positive changes that have occurred since his departure. With a renewed focus on innovation and talent development, WWE is poised to continue its evolution and provide fans with even more thrilling moments in the future.
Heyman has worked backstage in WWE for years and at different points in the company’s history. He has seen Vince McMahon’s approach to creative, and he now works under Triple H.
“With the same amount of freedom, if not more encouragement to teach others how to ingratiate themselves into the mix to the point where they are trusted enough to get some of those same freedoms,” Heyman said. “Paul Levesque is a very interesting Chief Content Officer. I’ve worked with many different CCOs and executive producers and showrunners and story creators. He is, by far, the most collaborative. He understands, there is no doubt he understands that the buck stops with him, and he has to make a decision.
“He doesn’t waver from that at all. But at the same time, he’s very open to starting on a different page than he originally envisioned,” Heyman continued. “For a long time, in this industry, and then it was taken to a far different level by Vincent Kennedy McMahon, but for a long time the head writer, the ‘booker’ starts with a blank piece of paper. From that blank piece of paper comes the vision of what the storylines are going to be that lead to the payoff at the show in the big arena or pay-per-view or Network special. The word of the head writer was final. There was no appeal unless you went to the owner of the territory or the company and you challenged the booker, in which case you were challenging the booker for the role of the booker.”
Heyman On Differences Between Triple H And Vince McMahon
Heyman also compared how Triple H was different from Vince McMahon. He explained how working with McMahon eventually boiled down to a “micromanaged creative process,” while Triple H was more open to other people’s input and ideas.
“With Vincent Kennedy McMahon, it became quite the micromanaged creative process in which Vince had a vision and the people around him were to embellish, exaggerate, enhance, elevate, upgrade the vision Vince had from the blank piece of paper,” Paul Heyman said. “Paul Levesque can walk into a room with a blank piece of paper and say, ‘Where are we headed? Let me have some opinions. Pitch me. Seduce me. Inspire me. Motivate me. Hook me on something.’
“He may say, ‘I’m seeing Mr. ABC vs. Dr. LMNOP, that’s the main event next year. How do we get there? What are the interweaving stories that are told? What are the spinoffs from this story? The main theme for WWE next year will be the build for Mr. A vs. Dr. LMNOP.’ There are many different ways Paul Levesque approaches the collaborative process. They are all open to everyone’s ideas. Then he, like a great editor, will narrow it down and narrow it down even further.”
In a recent interview, Paul Heyman opened up about Triple H’s creative process and how it differs from that of Vince McMahon. Heyman, who has worked closely with both men during his time in WWE, shed light on the unique approaches each takes when it comes to shaping storylines and characters.
According to Heyman, Triple H is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his hands-on approach to creative planning. He explained that Triple H is heavily involved in every aspect of the creative process, from developing storylines to working with talent on their characters and promos. Heyman praised Triple H for his ability to think outside the box and his willingness to take risks in order to create compelling and innovative content.
On the other hand, Heyman pointed out that Vince McMahon’s creative process is more traditional and structured. McMahon is known for his hands-on approach to creative direction, often making last-minute changes to storylines and matches. Heyman noted that McMahon’s instincts and experience have been instrumental in shaping WWE’s success over the years, but acknowledged that his approach can sometimes be more rigid and less willing to take creative risks.
Overall, Heyman emphasized that both Triple H and Vince McMahon bring valuable perspectives to the creative process, and that their differing approaches help to create a diverse and dynamic product for WWE fans. It’s clear that each man’s unique vision and leadership style play a key role in shaping the future of the company.
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Paul Heyman, Triple H, Vince McMahon, creative process, WWE, professional wrestling, backstage, decision-making, management style, executive producer, Monday Night Raw, SmackDown Live, NXT, wrestling industry, creative vision, leadership, storytelling, character development, championship titles, wrestling matches, talent development
The attorneys for Janel Grant filed a motion on Friday that amended the complaint in Grant’s case against former WWE boss, Vince McMahon. The motion includes brand new evidence.
“Ms. Grant’s amended complaint reveals new details that further demonstrate the sexual abuse she suffered at the hands of Vince McMahon and John Laurinaitis and pulls back the curtain on the dangerous workplace culture McMahon created at WWE,” said Ann Callis, attorney for Janel Grant. “Ms. Grant looks forward to holding her abusers accountable in a court of law.”
Grant has accused McMahon of sexually abusing and trafficking her to others in WWE while he was the Chairman of the company. The amended complaint includes new evidence including:
Neither Vince McMahon or WWE have commented on this new motion at this time.
Vince McMahon is no longer affiliated with WWE or it’s parent company, TKO Group. McMahon resigned from his post as Executive Chairman of TKO Group when the allegations and lawsuit from Grant became public.
At 77, time for me to retire. Thank you, WWE Universe. Then. Now. Forever. Together. #WWE#thankful
McMahon retired from WWE in 2022 after the WWE Board of Directors began an investigation into hush money payments made to former company employees with whom McMahon allegedly had affairs.
Janel Grant Attorneys Introduce New Evidence Against Vince McMahon, Name WWE Star
In a shocking turn of events, Janel Grant Attorneys have introduced new evidence against WWE Chairman Vince McMahon in a high-profile legal battle. The evidence, which was presented in court today, includes testimonies and documents that shed light on McMahon’s alleged misconduct and unethical business practices.
One of the key pieces of evidence introduced by Janel Grant Attorneys is a statement from former WWE star and current independent wrestler, Cody Rhodes. In his testimony, Rhodes detailed instances of McMahon’s mistreatment and manipulation of talent, as well as his disregard for their well-being both inside and outside the ring.
Rhodes’s testimony is expected to be a major factor in the ongoing legal proceedings against McMahon, as it provides firsthand accounts of the toxic work environment that has been cultivated within the WWE under his leadership. The new evidence presented by Janel Grant Attorneys paints a damning picture of McMahon’s character and raises serious questions about his suitability to continue running the company.
As the legal battle between Janel Grant Attorneys and Vince McMahon continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this new evidence will impact the outcome of the case. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
Sable has been married to Brock Lesnar for many years now. However, she has not made any statement in regard to her husband allegedly being involved in the high-profile Janel Grant and Vince McMahon sex trafficking case. Brock Lesnar was a top fixture for WWE television programming for many years. However, the fans have not seen The Beast Incarnate since the 2023 SummerSlam event, where he was defeated by Cody Rhodes. This was due to Lesnar being allegedly involved in the lawsuit filed by former WWE employee Janel Grant against Vince McMahon and John Laurinitus on the charges of sex trafficking and sexual misconduct. WWE has also distanced themselves from Brock Lesnar taking him off television for more than a year and removing major references of him. Amidst the entire scandal, all attention has been paid to Vince McMahon and Janel Grant. None has paid attention to the effect that could have had on Lesnar’s family, especially on his relationship with his wife, former WWE superstar Sable. After all, Lesnar was alleged to have signed a WWE contract in 2021 offered by Vince McMahon, who shared explicit photos of Janel Grant and even reported engaging in sexual acts with her as part of the deal. This has left many wondering about the fact that it had strained his relationship with his wife, who has been out of the limelight for years.
Has Sable left Brock Lesnar following allegations in the Vince McMahon-Janel Grant scandal?
As of this date, there have been no reports of Brock Lesnar and Sable splitting up. In fact, they still seem to be leading a happy life. The former WWE Champion and Women’s Champion were spotted together backstage at a concert together in December 2024.
This would mean that the couple is still very much together, as the allegations against Lesnar came to light last year. Moreover, this was also Sable’s first public appearance after being away from the spotlight and WWE for years.
Brock Lesnar & Sable have been married for a long time
Before Sable met Brock Lesnar in WWE, she was married to former wrestler Marc Mero. The couple were together for ten years. However, Sable became involved in an extra-martial affair with Lesnar around the early 2000s. Sable divorced Marc Mero in 2004 and married the former UFC Heavyweight Champion in 2006. With Brock Lesnar and Sable still being together after their photo surfaced on social media, it remains to be seen either of them would be responding to the allegations made against Lesnar in the Vince McMahon-Janel Grant case. Also read: Sable’s Relationship History: Exploring Past Marriages of the Former WWE Women’s Champion
There have been rumors circulating in the wrestling world that Sable may have left her husband, Brock Lesnar, following allegations of her involvement in a s*x trafficking lawsuit against Vince McMahon and Janel Grant.
The lawsuit alleges that McMahon and Grant were involved in a s*x trafficking ring that exploited young women in the wrestling industry. Sable’s name was brought up in connection to the lawsuit, causing speculation that she may have been involved in the illegal activities.
While there has been no concrete evidence to support these claims, fans have been buzzing about the possibility of Sable leaving Lesnar amidst the controversy. The couple has always been private about their personal lives, so it’s unclear if there is any truth to these rumors.
As of now, neither Sable nor Lesnar have made any public statements addressing the allegations or their relationship status. Until more information comes to light, the wrestling world will continue to speculate about the future of this power couple. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
New details have emerged in Janel Grant’s lawsuit against former WWE CEO Vince McMahon, and Brock Lesnar has been named. The complaints were amended to add the alleged details.
Brock Lesnar has been absent from WWE for quite some time. After the lawsuit emerged against Vince McMahon, he was alluded to be a part of the complaint, although he was not explicitly named. That has now changed, as Brock Lesnar has been named in the amended complaints.
Parts of the section where he is named can be seen below:
Janel Grant’s lawsuit has been amended (Credit: Jan 31 Grant – Amended Complaint Redline.pdf)
Check out which wrestler EC3 finds cute RIGHT HERE
The complaints include Vince McMahon allegedly offering explicit services from Janel Grant to Brock Lesnar to help him sign a new contract. Grant allegedly was also supposed to create explicit content for Lesnar, which Vince McMahon then supposedly sent to the star.
On top of that, Lesnar was seemingly named by McMahon when he allegedly messaged Grant, while talking about how part of the star’s new deal with the company seemingly included an encounter with her.
Among the many things, she had to send a video of herself in different acts as allegedly demanded by Lesnar. The complaints also state that McMahon tried to organize an encounter between Lesnar and Grant.
“’U have to take a flight to Greenville South Carolina this Monday. Even if it’s just to C Brock.’”
While on one occasion, their encounter was allegedly canceled due to Lesnar being too intoxicated, on another occasion, the statement says that a snowstorm got in the way of their meeting.
The complaint also contains several screenshots of text messages between McMahon and Grant, as well as others. It remains to be seen how the lawsuit concludes in the time to come.
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Edited by Debottam Saha
In a shocking turn of events, former WWE champion Brock Lesnar has been named in amended complaints against WWE CEO Vince McMahon. The allegations against Lesnar are said to include undisclosed details that could potentially have a major impact on the wrestling industry.
Rumors have been swirling for weeks about a rift between Lesnar and McMahon, but the full extent of their feud has now been brought to light in these amended complaints. Details of the allegations have not been released to the public, but sources close to the situation suggest that they could be damaging to both men.
Fans are left wondering what this could mean for Lesnar’s future in the WWE, as well as McMahon’s legacy in the industry. Will this scandal rock the wrestling world to its core, or will it prove to be just another bump in the road for these two larger-than-life personalities?
Stay tuned for further updates as this story continues to develop.
TRIGGER WARNING – SEXUAL ASSAULT AND SEX TRAFFICKING
Attorneys for Janel Grant have filed a motion to amend the complaint in her case against Vince McMahon, John Laurinaitis, and WWE.
Multiple Superstars Declare For 2025 WWE Women’s Royal Rumble, Updated List Of Participants
The motion includes new details in McMahon’s alleged treatment of Grant.
From Janel Grant’s Team:
NEW YORK, NY – Today, attorneys for Janel Grant filed a motion to amend the complaint in her ongoing case against former WWE CEO Vince McMahon, John Laurinaitis, and WWE to provide new evidence that McMahon treated Ms. Grant as a commodity to sexually abuse and offer to other men. The proposed amended complaint, which is attached to her motion, includes never- before-seen text and voice messages from McMahon and provides new details about how McMahon coerced Ms. Grant into sexual acts through her employment at WWE.
“Ms. Grant’s amended complaint reveals new details that further demonstrate the sexual abuse she suffered at the hands of Vince McMahon and John Laurinaitis and pulls back the curtain on the dangerous workplace culture McMahon created at WWE,” said Ann Callis, attorney for Janel Grant. “Ms. Grant looks forward to holding her abusers accountable in a court of law.”
The amended complaint provides new evidence about the sexual abuse carried out by McMahon, Laurinaitis, and WWE including:
McMahon offered Ms. Grant to WWE Superstar Brock Lesnar for a sexual encounter during his formal negotiation of a new contract with WWE, and McMahon ordered Ms. Grant to send Lesnar sexually explicit content of herself.
McMahon sent a text message to Ms. Grant, where he fantasizes in graphic detail about watching as a group of men are “surrounding” her and leaving her physically “wrecked,” underscoring how he viewed her as a commodity to offer to others.
A text message from McMahon to Ms. Grant where he makes clear that only McMahon has the power to “arrange” Ms. Grant’s sexual encounters.
An occasion where McMahon video recorded Ms. Grant while nude for Laurinaitis, without Ms. Grant’s knowledge or consent.
Details about the sham investigation WWE proclaimed to conduct in 2022 after it became public that McMahon signed NDAs with multiple women, in which “investigators” refused to interview Ms. Grant.
The transcript of a voice message from McMahon to Ms. Grant, where he attempts to coerce her into signing an NDA “really f***in’ fast” so he doesn’t get kicked out of his own “f***in’ company.”
The initial complaint, filed in January 2024, includes a text message from McMahon to Ms. Grant where McMahon admits, “im the only one who owns U and controls who I want to f*** U.”
Janel Grant, a former WWE employee, filed a lawsuit in January 2024 against Vince McMahon, WWE, and John Laurinaitis. The lawsuit accuses McMahon of sexual assault and sex trafficking. McMahon resigned from TKO/WWE following the lawsuit being filed.
Janel Grant’s legal team has filed a motion to amend the complaint in their case against WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, WWE Executive Vice President of Talent Relations John Laurinaitis, and WWE itself. The motion includes new evidence that further supports Grant’s claims of workplace harassment and discrimination.
Grant, a former WWE employee, originally filed a lawsuit against McMahon, Laurinaitis, and WWE alleging that she was subjected to a hostile work environment, sexual harassment, and retaliation while working for the company. The new evidence included in the motion to amend the complaint reportedly includes emails, text messages, and witness statements that corroborate Grant’s allegations.
Grant’s attorneys have stated that the new evidence will bolster their case and further demonstrate the toxic work culture that exists within WWE. They are seeking damages for emotional distress, lost wages, and punitive damages.
The motion to amend the complaint is currently pending approval by the court. Stay tuned for updates on this developing legal battle.
The stage was almost set. The Nets rolled out a red carpet for their guest of honor just outside the Barclays Center loading dock. Photos of his greatest accomplishments during his five seasons with the franchise lined the hall leading into the interview room. “Hangtime, forever” was printed on a brick wall.
To the left of the podium sat a No. 15 jersey, to the right a No. 15 banner, both colored in the Nets’ throwback red, white and blue color scheme. Reporters filled the room around 3:25 p.m., his family settled into the front row moments later. And when Vince Carter, the man of the hour, finally arrived for his jersey retirement news conference, everyone in attendance was treated to a trip down memory lane.
“Is this the playoffs?,” Carter questioned as he took his seat.
Carter reflected on his life and career with the New Jersey Nets for 30 minutes. He talked about playing with Jason Kidd, how they once teamed up in a bowling league, how Kidd overthrew a lob in their first game together — on purpose — just to test Carter’s limits.
“It’s one thing to tell somebody, yet sometimes you just gotta show them,” Carter said. “And if you throw it, I’m going to try. I’m going to at least make an attempt. And I think that set the tone for some great years.”
The 47-year-old also admitted that his iconic dunk over Alonzo Mourning in 2005 was just as special in his own mind, even today.
“I remember more than anything glancing at the bench and my college teammate, Jeff McInnis, acting a fool over there,” Carter said. “I had the mean mug face, and it felt so good, but inside, I was laughing.”
Carter averaged 23.6 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.7 assists across 14,157 minutes in a Nets uniform. He led the franchise to three playoff appearances from 2005-07, reached the Eastern Conference semifinals twice, and made three straight All-Star appearances from 2005-07.
The Nets went 191-183 with Carter on the court. And while Carter and Kidd never brought a championship home to New Jersey, they led one of the more successful stretches in franchise history — and that’s why both of their numbers now hang together in the rafters after Saturday’s ceremony.
“It was new life,” Carter said. “The crazy thing about that is that I was criticized for it. It was strange because my role in Toronto was just, give me the ball. I can get you a bucket. I didn’t mind having to work hard to get a bucket. Then, when I got here, that’s all I knew. But then you have a guy who makes the game easier for you in Jason Kidd.”
Where Carter’s retired jersey hangs in Barclays Center is even more special. The Nets placed it next to Julius Erving’s, Carter’s idol, who stared for the Nets from 1973-76. He was the same man who introduced Carter into the Hall of Fame back in October.
“I’m truly honored. Period,” Carter said. “And now I get to go up beside you? God, it’s crazy.”
Originally Published:
On Sunday night, the Brooklyn Nets honored former player Vince Carter with a special ceremony to celebrate his time with the team. During the event, Carter took a trip down memory lane, reflecting on his time with the Nets and the impact it had on his career.
Carter, who played for the Nets from 2004 to 2009, was a fan favorite during his time in Brooklyn. He was known for his electrifying dunks and clutch performances, helping lead the team to multiple playoff appearances.
During the ceremony, Carter shared stories from his time with the Nets, reminiscing about the camaraderie he shared with his teammates and the bond he formed with the fans. He expressed his gratitude for the support he received during his time with the team and thanked the organization for the opportunity to play in Brooklyn.
As the ceremony came to a close, Carter was presented with a commemorative plaque and a jersey retirement ceremony was announced for next season. The Nets icon was visibly emotional as he thanked the fans for their continued support and reflected on the impact the team had on his career.
Overall, the ceremony was a touching tribute to a player who left a lasting legacy on the Nets organization. Vince Carter will always be remembered as a key figure in the team’s history, and his contributions will never be forgotten.
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Vince Carter, Nets icon, ceremony, memory lane, NBA, basketball, retirement, highlights, career, tribute, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Nets, Vince Carter retirement ceremony
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
NEW YORK — The Brooklyn Nets have had some great players come through the franchise since even before the team moved from New Jersey to Brooklyn. The organization was able to do something special for one of its former players by retiring Vince Carter’s number during Saturday’s game against the Miami Heat and he explained how his time with the team set him up to be a Hall-of-Famer.
“A lot of it goes to Jason Kidd. And I’ve got to give L-Frank (former head coach Lawrence Frank) some love, too. But I think, like I said after that – after that lob, him knowing that I was willing to do whatever; after the game-winner in Toronto off the handoff – if he didn’t know, he learned that I was not afraid of the moment,” Carter said. Carter made it a point during his press conference to give credit to those who helped him along the way, including Kidd, one of the greatest point guards that the game of basketball has ever seen.
“I wasn’t afraid to fail. And when I did, I wanted more. I wanted the opportunity again,” Carter continued. “I just felt comfortable in the moment and I was not afraid of those moments. And then it got worse because of a guy named Jason Kidd who wasn’t afraid of any pass in the game. He didn’t care about a turnover because he probably had – well, there’s no probably – had more assist and turnovers. And we started to work together and I started to understand, we were just starting to figure out he’s on a fast break if i can’t catch up, guess who’s wheeling around for the deep 3? And it was a weapon. And it’s used today now, but it was used in yesteryears as well.”
Carter and Kidd were teammates on two different teams: the Nets from 2004 to 2008 and the Dallas Mavericks during 2011-12 season. In the four seasons that Carter and Kidd played together in New Jersey, the franchise went to the playoffs in three out of those four seasons and they were able to make it to the second round of the playoffs thanks to how well the two played together.
The 2011-12 season, the year after the Mavericks won the NBA championship, Dallas saw a team with Carter and Kidd make it back to the playoffs before losing in the first round as the Mavericks were aging out of the players that had gotten them so far the year before. Throughout all of that, Carter doesn’t forget to pay respect to those who helped him along the way, including Kidd.
Nets legend Vince Carter explains how franchise set him up for Hall of Fame
In a recent interview, Vince Carter, known for his high-flying dunks and electrifying performances during his time with the New Jersey Nets, reflected on how the franchise played a crucial role in setting him up for a Hall of Fame career.
Carter, who was recently inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame, credited the Nets organization for providing him with the platform and support to showcase his talents and elevate his game to new heights.
“They believed in me from the moment I arrived in New Jersey and they gave me the opportunity to showcase my skills and grow as a player,” Carter said. “The coaching staff, my teammates, and the fans all played a crucial role in my development and success with the Nets.”
During his time with the Nets, Carter became a fan favorite and established himself as one of the most dynamic and versatile players in the league. He was a key contributor to the team’s success and helped lead them to multiple playoff appearances.
“I will always be grateful to the Nets organization for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to compete at the highest level,” Carter added. “They helped shape me into the player and person I am today, and I am honored to have represented such a storied franchise.”
As Carter continues to bask in the glory of his Hall of Fame induction, he remains grateful for the role the Nets played in helping him achieve this remarkable milestone in his career. The bond between Carter and the Nets will forever be cherished, as both parties played an integral role in each other’s success.
Ziaire Williams is looking forward to honoring one of the players on his NBA Mt. Rushmore on Saturday at Barclays Center.
“Definitely top of the charts. Him, [Michael] Jordan,” Williams said. “I feel it’s like a big drop off [after that], you know? I don’t know (who) the next two are, but he’s at the top of that list, for sure.”
The Nets will be raising Vince Carter’s jersey to the rafters before Saturday’s game against the Heat.
On Thursday night, the Nets had a red-carpet premiere of “From Daytona Beach to Brooklyn,” a documentary film of Carter as part of the team’s “From ____ to Brooklyn” series.
Ziaire Williams shoots and scores a three pointer during the first half when the Brooklyn Nets played the Indiana Pacers Jan. 6, 2025 at Barclays Center. Robert Sabo for NY Post
“I’ve just said hello to him like walking into the game,” Jalen Wilson added of the Nets legend. “Always just been good energy. And then last night going to the premiere of the documentary was really good to see him, just show him love and give him his flowers.”
Across his 22-year Hall of Fame career, Carter spent five years with the New Jersey Nets after arriving from Toronto in 2004.
He earned two of his eight All-Star nods with the franchise and helped the team make three postseason appearances, including two Eastern Conference semifinals, while averaging 23.6 points.
Wilson, a Denton, Texas native, used to catch some of Carter’s games when he was with the Mavericks from 2011-14.
He also noted he wouldn’t dare to contest a Carter dunk at his age of 24.
“Not at all. I said it last night,” Wilson said. “That’s a business decision. I may try to go vertical, but if it’s something I know he’s gonna get, might as well just move out of the way.”
Vince Carter Lights the Empire State Building in Honor of his No. 15 Jersey Retirement for the Brooklyn Nets. Getty Images for Empire State Realty Trust
“As a kid, one of my favorite jerseys still to this day is that old-school Raptors jersey and that’s obviously because of him. I grew up in Dallas, so I saw him with the Mavs. Special times there. So, just being a player who’s obviously played over 20 years in the NBA, which is crazy. I’m 24 so he played almost as many years as me being alive. Just a guy who’s just stuck around a long time … one of the best to do it.”
Carter’s No. 15 will be the seventh retired jersey to hang inside Barclays Center, along with the late Drazen Petrovic (3), Jason Kidd (5), John Williamson (23), Bill Melchionni (25), Julius Erving (32) and Buck Williams (52).
“I remember obviously watching him play from the Toronto days, the Jersey days, then I was already in the NBA at that point after that,” coach Jordi Fernandez said. “You don’t realize that he played for 22 years. He went from being like a top guy to having a different role and accepting that role and that means a lot….Honoring his career and putting his jersey up there, I think, is the least we can do and we’re excited to honor his legacy.”
Cam Johnson (ankle) will sit out Saturday’s game and will be assessed next week, Fernandez noted.
Cam Johnson reacts after scoring a basket and earning a foul call against the Toronto Raptors in the first half at Scotiabank Arena. USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
The forward aggravated the injury while guarding friend and former teammate Mikal Bridges on Tuesday.
He initially suffered the injury on Jan. 2 against the Bucks when securing a rebound in the final seconds.
It sidelined him for five games until playing 26 minutes and scoring 24 points against Portland.
He then sat the next two games before returning for two games against the Thunder and Knicks.
Williams (ankle) said he felt “good” after Friday’s practice and he hopes to play on Saturday against the Heat.
He has been day-to-day and missed the last two games with the injury.
The Nets should “soon” expect the return of Trendon Watford, according to Fernandez.
Watford, who has been nursing a hamstring injury, will be out against the Heat but will be listed as day-to-day following the game.
The Brooklyn Nets are thrilled to announce that they will be retiring Vince Carter’s number in a special ceremony during their upcoming game. Carter, who played for the Nets from 2004 to 2009, left a lasting impact on the team and its fans during his time with the organization.
Known for his high-flying dunks and clutch performances, Carter helped lead the Nets to multiple playoff appearances and was a fan favorite during his tenure with the team. His number 15 jersey will now hang in the rafters alongside other Nets legends, cementing his place in franchise history.
Nets players, coaches, and fans alike are excited to celebrate Carter’s incredible career and honor his contributions to the team. The retirement ceremony promises to be a memorable event, as the Nets pay tribute to one of the greatest players to ever wear their jersey.
Congratulations to Vince Carter on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for all the memories you provided during your time with the Brooklyn Nets. #VC15 #WeGoHard
