All good things must come to an end, the career of Vince Carter is one of them. The 43 year old and former 5th overall pick announced his retirement via the Winging It Podcast on Thursday June 25th.
After 22 seasons in the NBA, Carter finally calls it a career. Vince Carter said, “I’m officially done playing basketball professionally.” Carter finished his career playing in 1541 games while averaging 16.7 points, 4.3 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game. His career shooting percentages are 43.5% from the field, 37.1% from the 3 point line and 79.8% from the free throw line.
Vince Carter managed to play games in 4 different decades! He played in the 90s, the 2000s, the 2010s and played a couple games in 2020. He became the first play to ever accomplish this feat and it’s unlikely we’ll see another one join him any time soon. Carter played for the Toronto Raptors, New Jersey Nets, Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks, Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings and finished his career with the Atlanta Hawks.
We all knew that this time was coming, it was simply a matter of when. It’s a shame that Carter’s final season was ended so abruptly, I feel it’s safe to say he deserved better. It’s also a shame that Carter never won a championship throughout his career. Carter’s longevity is simply amazing as well. To play for 22 years in the NBA is insane. People talk about Brady’s longevity to play quarterback but Carter playing into his 40s in the NBA is a feat just as, if not more, amazing.
Carter, you will be missed. Your iconic slam dunk will always be remembered. Your 50 point game against the 76ers in the playoffs will be remembered. As a Raptors fan and basketball fan in general, thank you Vince Carter.
