A certain Toronto Raptors legend is gearing up to return to familiar territory—not the hardwood this time, but the world of sports broadcasting. If you’ve followed his journey post-retirement, you’ll know this isn’t his first rodeo. After previous stints with ESPN and TNT, the former shooting guard is stepping back into the analyst chair. But what’s different now? He’s joining a media lineup that’s already buzzing with big names, including none other than Michael Jordan.

Vince Carter is set to become part of NBC Sports, the media giant backed by NBCUniversal Media Group, which boasts a massive valuation of $129.6 billion. When the NBA makes its long-awaited return to NBC and hits Peacock in October, the former Toronto Raptors star will be front and center as a studio analyst.

The announcement made waves on Tuesday, confirming that the 8x NBA All-Star will be featured in the studio at least once a week during playoff season. And he won’t be alone—he’s expected to frequently team up with Carmelo Anthony. As Carter put it, “I could not be more excited and appreciative to have the opportunity to be a part of the historic return of the NBA to NBC and now Peacock,” adding, “I am truly looking forward to joining Melo in the studio and the rest of the broadcast team overall, as we embark on bringing NBA fans best-in-class coverage of the league they love.”

As most fans would know, it was just recently that NBCUniversal regained the NBA’s broadcasting rights under a new 11-year deal that kicks off in July 2025. Since then, the network has been building a dream team. Alongside Carter and Anthony, names like Jamal Crawford and Reggie Miller will join as analysts, with Mike Tirico and Noah Eagle calling the games. And yes, Michael Jordan himself is stepping in as a special contributor. Still, not everyone is jumping for joy over Carter’s return. The news has stirred a mixed bag of reactions among fans, and that’s keeping the conversation alive.

Fans pour in mixed reactions to Vince Carter joining NBC Sports

Carter is headed to NBC Sports, and fans definitely have something to say about it. But while the idea of seeing Vinsanity on screen again should spark excitement, not everyone’s buying into the hype just yet. Some fans haven’t exactly been thrilled with Carter’s work behind the mic in the past. And this, despite his contribution to NBC’s coverage during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. One fan summed up this feeling pretty clearly: “Hopefully Vince got better in the commentary department. I didn’t think he was that great of an analyst, but I’m here for MJ…“ Safe to say, the spotlight might be shifting more toward another legend.

Because let’s face it—when Michael Jordan’s name pops up, everything else seems to fade in the background. That His Airness effect is real. And one fan couldn’t care less about anyone else: “You don’t need anyone other than Michael. I hate peakok but will pay for it to watch Michael. He’s the ambassador for the game we want. Don’t want or need any one else, they are all fine but not the true Goat.“

Then there’s the viewer who seems to be calling for a shift in tone. Forget the same old takes—they’re clearly done with the nostalgia overload. “Great crew so far, but can we please put an emphasis on growing the game and supporting the players instead of a bunch of grumpy old heads that think they’re better than everyone playing the game now.“ That’s a message many might echo!

Still, there’s plenty of love coming Vince Carter’s way, too. “All my favorite players! @carmeloanthony @mrvincecarter15 and Michael Jordan… back in the day once your favorite retired you rarely saw them again so glad this won’t be the case with these guys! Thank you @NBAonNBC,“ one excited fan shared, clearly here for the reunion.

Then there was one who cared for no one but Vinsanity. “This is a good choice. Reggie Miller, Carmelo, and Crawford are terrible choices,“ he wrote. The reactions are loud, passionate, and anything but one-note—just like the game itself. What do you think of the latest addition to the lineup? Drop your thoughts below!