TNT honored Harvey Carey the best way it could.
The Tropang Giga retired the franchise lifer’s jersey no. 4 in a ceremony held at halftime of their PBA On Tour match versus Meralco, Wednesday evening.
“I’m so thankful and honored to have my jersey retired tonight,” he expressed during his acceptance speech at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
Simple yet nostalgic were the rites held for Carey, as some of the key figures in a pro career that spanned 17 years were in attendance.
Former teammates such as one-time MVP Asi Taulava, Donbel Belano, Jay Washington, TNT deputy Bong Ravena, current Bolts assistant Patrick Fran, Jared Dillinger, and Troy Rosario were present in the reunion of sorts.
PBA chairman and TNT governor Ricky Vargas and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Al Panlilio, formerly a team executive, were there as well.
Carey was fighting back tears during the rites as he’s overwhelmed with how everything turned out for him after being drafted fourth overall in 2003.
The Fil-Am bruiser retired in 2021, ending a career that saw him win a total of seven championships, an All-Star citation in 2011, an All-Defensive Team inclusion in 2007, and a Mythical Second Team spot in 2003.
“That risk you took on me changed the trajectory of my life and I am forever grateful,” said Carey.
