More Vinsanity: NBA Vet Vince Carter Makes History for Longest Playing Record of 22 Seasons

We may earn a commission from links on this page.
Image for article titled More Vinsanity: NBA Vet Vince Carter Makes History for Longest Playing Record of 22 Seasons
Photo: Kevin C. Cox (Getty Images)

It’s official.

The Vinsanity continues…for at least for one more year.

Vince Carter has re-signed with the Atlanta Hawks—and with the new agreement, the 42-year-old guard/forward will become the first player in NBA history to play for 22 seasons.

He may walk away without any championship rings, but he’ll still be a history maker.

Advertisement

Per team policy, the terms of the agreement with Carter were not disclosed, but it’s reportedly been on the table for a couple of months now.

Advertisement

In 21 seasons, the 6’6” baller was the overall pick in the 1998 draft and has been spread like butter—playing on teams such as the New Jersey Nets (before Brooklyn), Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks, Memphis Grizzlies, and Sacramento Kings.

Advertisement

In the new year, Carter would be the very first player to have been on the courtplayingwithin four decades (1990s, 2000s, 2010s and 2020s).

Early in his career, he became a star as Rookie of the Year with the Toronto Raptors.

Advertisement

A native of Daytona Beach, Fla., the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill alum took home an Olympic gold medal in 2000 as part of the U.S. Men’s Basketball team in Sydney, Australia.

Long considered one of the good guys, the high-flying Omega Psi Phi brother is recognized as the league’s ideal teammate, who exemplifies selfless play and commitment and dedication to the team,

Advertisement

Fox Sports ranks Carter as one of NBA’s greatest dunkers of all time, coming in only second to 1980s’ great Dominique Wilkins.

North Carolina’s Vince Carter drives to the basket, circa 1998.
North Carolina’s Vince Carter drives to the basket, circa 1998.
Photo: ALAN MOTHNER (AP)
Advertisement

The eight-time All-Star has averaged 17.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.0 steals over 30.7 minutes over his entire career.