Vincent Lamar Carter Jr. is a celebrated American former professional basketball player with a remarkable 22-season career in the NBA, tied with LeBron James for the longest NBA career. Primarily a shooting guard and small forward, he adapted his game to play power forward later in his career. Carter earned eight All-Star selections and two All-NBA Team honors. Notably, he holds the unique distinction of playing in the NBA across four different decades. His contributions to the sport were further recognized in 2024 with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
January 26, 1977: Birth of Vince Carter
Vince Carter was born on January 26, 1977.
1995: Carter Plays for U.S. Under-19 Team
In 1995, Vince Carter played for the United States men's national under-19 team at the FIBA Under-19 Basketball World Cup in Athens, where he tied for the team lead in blocks.
1995: Enrolled at UNC
Vince Carter enrolled at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1995.
1995: McDonald's All-American and High School State Title
In 1995, Vince Carter led Mainland's basketball team to its first Class 6A state title in 56 years and was named a McDonald's All-American.
1997: College Basketball at UNC
During the 1997-98 season, Vince Carter played for the North Carolina Tar Heels and helped the team to consecutive ACC tournament titles and Final Four appearances.
1997: Discovered familial relationship with Tracy McGrady
Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady discovered their familial relationship at a family reunion in 1997.
May 1998: Declared for NBA Draft
Following his junior year, Vince Carter declared for the 1998 NBA draft in May 1998.
1998: Played with Tracy McGrady on the Raptors
Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady played together on the Toronto Raptors in 1998. They were unaware of their familial relationship until a family reunion in 1997.
1998: Established The Embassy of Hope
Vince Carter established The Embassy of Hope charitable foundation in 1998 after being drafted into the NBA.
1998: Joined Toronto Raptors
Vince Carter joined the Toronto Raptors after being traded from the Golden State Warriors in 1998.
1998: Drafted into NBA
Vince Carter was drafted by the Golden State Warriors and traded to the Toronto Raptors in 1998.
1998: Carter Drafted
Vince Carter was drafted into the NBA in 1998. This is relevant because four of his teammates in his final season were born after he was drafted.
1998: NBA Draft
Vince Carter was selected fifth overall in the 1998 NBA draft by the Golden State Warriors and immediately traded to the Toronto Raptors.
February 1999: NBA Debut
Due to the NBA lockout, Vince Carter's NBA debut was delayed until February 1999. He quickly became a fan favorite, earning the nickname "Air Canada".
1999: Rookie of the Year
Vince Carter won the NBA Rookie of the Year Award in 1999.
1999: Signed with Puma and released signature shoe
In 1999, Vince Carter signed a sponsorship deal with Puma and released his first signature shoe, the Puma Vinsanity. However, he later broke the contract, citing discomfort with the shoes.
August 2000: Tracy McGrady Leaves Raptors
Tracy McGrady left the Toronto Raptors in free agency to join the Orlando Magic in August 2000.
August 2000: Graduated from UNC
Vince Carter graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in Afro-American studies in August 2000.
2000: "The Dunk of Death"
During the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Vince Carter performed his iconic dunk over 7'2" French center Frédéric Weis, which the French media dubbed "le dunk de la mort" ("The Dunk of Death"). Carter led the U.S. team in scoring and helped them win the gold medal.
2000: "Dunk of Death"
During the 2000 Summer Olympics, Vince Carter performed his iconic "Dunk of Death" against France, solidifying his reputation as an exceptional dunker.
2000: Signed with Nike
In 2000, Vince Carter signed with Nike and released his first signature Nike Shox shoe, the Nike Shox BB4 PE, coinciding with the Summer Olympics.
2000: Played with Tracy McGrady on the Raptors
Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady played together on the Toronto Raptors until 2000.
2000: First Playoff Appearance with Raptors
Vince Carter led the Toronto Raptors to their first-ever playoff appearance in 2000.
2000: All-NBA Second Team Selection
Vince Carter was named to the All-NBA Second Team in 2000.
2000: Olympic Gold Medal & Slam Dunk Contest Win
Vince Carter won the Slam Dunk Contest at the 2000 NBA All-Star Weekend and led the United States in scoring, winning a gold medal at the 2000 Summer Olympics.
May 2001: Attended Graduation Ceremonies
Vince Carter attended his graduation ceremonies at North Carolina in May 2001.
August 2001: Carter Signs Contract Extension
In August 2001, Vince Carter secured his future with the Toronto Raptors by signing a lucrative six-year contract extension worth up to $94 million.
December 7, 2001: Carter's Impressive Performance Against the Nuggets
On December 7, 2001, Vince Carter showcased his all-around skills with 42 points, 15 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals against the Denver Nuggets. This remarkable performance put him in the elite company of Charles Barkley as only the second player to achieve such a stat line since the league began officially tracking steals.
2001: Career-High Scoring Average and Playoff Performance
In 2001, Vince Carter averaged a career-high 27.6 points per game and had a memorable playoff performance against the 76ers, scoring 50 points in Game 3.
2001: Raptors' Playoff Series Win
Vince Carter led the Toronto Raptors to their first-ever playoff series win, advancing to the Eastern Conference Semifinals, in 2001.
2002: Carter's All-Star Selection and Injury
In 2002, Vince Carter's talent was recognized with an All-Star Game selection. Unfortunately, an injury prevented him from participating in the game. His absence was felt by the Raptors, who were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs without their star player.
2002: Carter's Injury-Shortened Season
Vince Carter's 2002-03 season was significantly hampered by injuries, limiting him to only 43 games. Despite this setback, he returned to play 73 games in the 2003-04 season.
February 2003: Carter Gives Up All-Star Starting Spot to Jordan
In a display of respect and sportsmanship, Vince Carter relinquished his starting position in the 2003 NBA All-Star Game to Michael Jordan. This gracious gesture allowed Jordan to start in his final All-Star appearance.
April 2003: Jordan's 25-Point Game at Age 40
In April 2003, Michael Jordan, playing for the Washington Wizards, scored 25 points at the age of 40. This feat was later referenced when Vince Carter scored 20 points in November 2016, becoming the oldest player to achieve such a feat since Jordan.
2003: Replaced Kobe Bryant on the USA roster
In 2003, Vince Carter replaced Kobe Bryant on the USA roster for the FIBA Americas Tournament due to Bryant's knee and shoulder surgeries. Carter even wore Bryant's jersey number 8.
July 2004: Married Ellen Rucker
Vince Carter married chiropractor Ellen Rucker in July 2004.
December 2004: Trade to New Jersey Nets
In December 2004, Vince Carter was traded to the New Jersey Nets.
December 17, 2004: Carter Traded to the New Jersey Nets
On December 17, 2004, after much speculation, Vince Carter was traded from the Toronto Raptors to the New Jersey Nets. The trade brought Alonzo Mourning, Aaron Williams, Eric Williams, and two first-round draft picks to Toronto.
2004: Declined Olympic spot
In 2004, Vince Carter declined a spot on the Olympic team, opting to prioritize rest, recovery, and his upcoming marriage. This decision followed Kobe Bryant's withdrawal from the Olympics due to sexual assault allegations.
2004: Carter Joins the Nets
In 2004, Vince Carter joined the New Jersey Nets, teaming up with Jason Kidd and Richard Jefferson. Despite the potential of the trio, injuries limited their playing time together during the 2004-05 season. Nevertheless, Carter and Kidd led a short-handed Nets team to a 15-4 run to close the season and secure a playoff spot.
April 15, 2005: Carter's Return to Toronto and Triumphant Performance
Vince Carter's first game back in Toronto as a Net, on April 15, 2005, was met with a hostile reception from Raptors fans. Despite the boos, Carter delivered a stellar performance, scoring 39 points and leading the Nets to a 101-90 victory.
November 7, 2005: Carter's Memorable Dunk on Mourning
On November 7, 2005, Vince Carter executed a spectacular dunk over Alonzo Mourning during a game against the Miami Heat, creating a lasting image of his athleticism.
December 23, 2005: Carter Sets Free Throw Record and Ties Career-High
On December 23, 2005, Vince Carter etched his name in the NBA record books by making 16 free throws in a single quarter (4th quarter) against the Miami Heat. In the same game, he tied his career-high with an impressive 51-point performance.
January 8, 2006: Carter's Buzzer-Beater Stuns Toronto
On January 8, 2006, Vince Carter silenced the Toronto crowd with a dramatic game-winning three-pointer against his former team. With only 0.1 seconds remaining, Carter sank the shot after a missed Raptors free throw, securing a 105-104 victory for the Nets. Carter, who finished with 42 points, considered it one of his greatest shots.
September 2006: Visited Duquesne University basketball team
In September 2006, Vince Carter visited the Duquesne University men's basketball team to offer support after a shooting incident involving five players.
2006: Carter's All-Star Selection and Playoff Performance
In 2006, Vince Carter was named an Eastern Conference All-Star, solidifying his status as one of the league's premier players. He also led the Nets to the second round of the playoffs, averaging 29.6 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in 11 playoff games.
2006: Divorced Ellen Rucker
Vince Carter and Ellen Rucker divorced in 2006.
February 3, 2007: Statue Unveiled
A statue of Vince Carter was unveiled at Mainland High School on February 3, 2007.
April 7, 2007: Carter and Kidd Achieve Rare Feat
On April 7, 2007, Vince Carter and Jason Kidd both recorded triple-doubles in the same game for the New Jersey Nets. This was the first time teammates accomplished this since Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen in 1989. Carter scored 46 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Kidd finished with 10 points, 16 rebounds, and 18 assists.
July 2007: Carter Re-signs with Nets
In July 2007, Vince Carter signed a four-year, $61.8 million contract extension to remain with the New Jersey Nets.
2007: Florida Governor's Points of Light Award
Vince Carter received the Florida Governor's Points of Light award for his philanthropy in 2007.
November 21, 2008: Carter's Overtime Heroics in Toronto
On November 21, 2008, Vince Carter once again delivered a memorable performance in Toronto. His late-game heroics forced the game into overtime, where he sealed a 129-127 Nets victory with an alley-oop dunk with 1.5 seconds left. Despite scoring 39 points and facing continued boos, Carter maintained a positive attitude towards the Toronto fans.
February 3, 2009: Carter's Fifth Triple-Double
On February 3, 2009, Vince Carter recorded his fifth career triple-double with 15 points, 12 assists, and 10 rebounds in a Nets win against the Milwaukee Bucks.
June 2009: Carter's Departure from the Nets
After five seasons with the New Jersey Nets, Vince Carter departed in June 2009. During his time with the Nets, Carter continued to excel, averaging 23.6 points per game and helping the team to three consecutive playoff appearances.
June 25, 2009: Carter Traded to Orlando Magic
On June 25, 2009, Vince Carter was traded from the New Jersey Nets to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Rafer Alston, Tony Battie, and Courtney Lee.
February 8, 2010: Carter's Season-High with Magic
On February 8, 2010, Vince Carter scored a season-high 48 points, including 34 in the second half, to lead the Orlando Magic to a comeback victory against the New Orleans Hornets.
December 18, 2010: Carter Traded to Phoenix Suns
On December 18, 2010, Vince Carter was traded to the Phoenix Suns as part of a multi-player deal that also sent Marcin Gortat and Mickael Pietrus to Phoenix.
2010: Opened Restaurant
Vince Carter opened a restaurant named after himself in Daytona Beach in 2010.
January 17, 2011: Carter Reaches 20,000 Career Points
On January 17, 2011, Vince Carter scored 29 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in a win over the New York Knicks, surpassing 20,000 career points in the process.
July 2011: Allen Iverson Reflects on 2001 Playoff Series
In July 2011, Allen Iverson reflected on the intense 2001 playoff series between the Raptors and the 76ers.
November 2011: Carter Addresses Toronto Fans in Interview
In November 2011, Vince Carter, along with Tracy McGrady and Charles Oakley, participated in an interview on "Off the Record" with Michael Landsberg. Carter addressed the Toronto fans directly, expressing his love for the city and acknowledging the hurt caused by his departure. He emphasized his appreciation for the experience and growth he gained in Toronto.
December 9, 2011: Carter Waived by Suns
On December 9, 2011, Vince Carter was waived by the Phoenix Suns following the resolution of the NBA lockout.
December 12, 2011: Carter Signs with Mavericks
On December 12, 2011, Vince Carter signed a three-year contract with the Dallas Mavericks, reuniting with former Nets teammate Jason Kidd.
January 31, 2012: Named one of 35 Greatest McDonald's All-Americans
On January 31, 2012, Vince Carter was named one of the 35 greatest McDonald's All-Americans.
April 20, 2012: Carter Reaches 1,500 3-Pointers
On April 20, 2012, Vince Carter made his 1,500th career 3-pointer in a game against the Golden State Warriors.
November 6, 2012: Carter Reaffirms Love for Toronto
On November 6, 2012, Vince Carter reiterated his affection for Toronto and his gratitude towards the Raptors organization in an interview with TSN Radio 1050. The following day, details emerged about Carter's desire to stay in Toronto before the trade to New Jersey, adding further context to his departure.
February 13, 2013: Carter Passes Larry Bird in Scoring
On February 13, 2013, Vince Carter scored 26 points against the Sacramento Kings to pass Larry Bird for 29th place on the NBA's all-time scoring list. He also became the 11th NBA player to make at least 1,600 three-pointers.
April 2013: Juwan Howard Starts Game at an Advanced Age
On March 13, 2017, Vince Carter became the oldest player to start an NBA game since Juwan Howard did so in April 2013. Carter was 40 years and 46 days old at the time.
March 16, 2014: Carter Passes 23,000 Career Points
On March 16, 2014, Vince Carter passed the 23,000-point mark in his career during a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
April 2014: Carter Recognized as a Raptors Symbol
In April 2014, Raptors general manager Masai Ujiri acknowledged Vince Carter's significant contributions to the franchise, referring to him as "one of the symbols of the Toronto Raptors." Carter's legacy as a high-scoring player and his statistical achievements solidified his place in Raptors history.
April 30, 2014: Carter's First 20-Point Game in Years
On November 8, 2016, Carter scored 20 points, his first such game since April 30, 2014. This also made him the oldest NBA player to score 20 points since Michael Jordan in April 2003.
July 12, 2014: Carter Signs with Grizzlies
On July 12, 2014, Vince Carter signed a multi-year contract with the Memphis Grizzlies.
November 13, 2014: Carter's Game-Winning Assist
On November 13, 2014, Vince Carter made a game-winning alley-oop assist to teammate Courtney Lee to defeat the Sacramento Kings.
November 19, 2014: Raptors Pay Tribute to Carter
On November 19, 2014, nearly a decade after his trade, the Toronto Raptors honored Vince Carter during their 20th-anniversary celebration. A video montage showcasing Carter's highlights was played, initially met with boos but ultimately culminating in a heartfelt standing ovation. Carter was visibly moved by the tribute, wiping away tears and expressing his gratitude to the fans.
December 17, 2014: Carter Passes Robert Parish in Scoring
On December 17, 2014, Vince Carter surpassed Robert Parish for 25th place on the NBA's all-time scoring list during a triple-overtime victory over the San Antonio Spurs.
February 24, 2016: Carter Passes Charles Barkley in Scoring
On February 24, 2016, Vince Carter scored 9 points against the Los Angeles Lakers to surpass Charles Barkley for 24th place on the NBA's all-time scoring list.
November 1, 2016: Carter Ties A.C. Green on NBA Career List
On November 1, 2016, Vince Carter tied A.C. Green for 25th on the NBA's career games played list, playing in his 1,278th game. He also became the 24th player to surpass 24,000 career points.
2016: Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year Award
Vince Carter received the Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year Award in 2016.
January 2017: Sold Restaurant
In January 2017, Vince Carter sold his eponymous restaurant in Daytona Beach for $4.3 million. His mother had been operating the establishment.
July 10, 2017: Carter Signs with Sacramento Kings
Vince Carter signed a one-year, $8 million contract with the Sacramento Kings on July 10, 2017.
August 18, 2017: Carter Named Most Influential Veteran
On August 18, 2017, Vince Carter received the Most Influential Veteran award from the NBA Players Association during the Players Voice Awards.
December 27, 2017: Carter's Season-High Against Cavaliers
On December 27, 2017, Vince Carter scored a season-high 24 points against the Cleveland Cavaliers, marking the first time in NBA history that a 40+ year old reserve scored 20+ points.
January 28, 2018: Carter and Ginóbili's Historic Game
On January 28, 2018, Vince Carter and Manu Ginóbili became the first pair of 40+ year old players in NBA history to each score at least 15 points in the same game. Carter scored 21 and Ginóbili scored 15 against the San Antonio Spurs.
March 19, 2018: Carter Passes Patrick Ewing in Scoring
On March 19, 2018, Vince Carter surpassed Patrick Ewing for 22nd place on the NBA's all-time scoring list during a game against the Detroit Pistons.
August 24, 2018: Carter Signs with Atlanta Hawks
Vince Carter signed with the Atlanta Hawks on August 24, 2018.
October 17, 2018: Carter Starts Season Opener at 41
Vince Carter started the season opener for the Atlanta Hawks on October 17, 2018, at 41 years old, becoming the second-oldest player to start a season opener in NBA history.
February 7, 2019: Carter Passes Jerry West in Scoring
On February 7, 2019, Vince Carter surpassed Jerry West for 21st on the NBA's all-time scoring list during a game against the Toronto Raptors.
March 1, 2019: Carter Plays 45 Minutes at 42
On March 1, 2019, Vince Carter played 45 minutes in a quadruple-overtime game against the Chicago Bulls, becoming the oldest player in NBA history to play at least 45 minutes in a game. He was 42 years old at the time.
June 2019: Carter Plans Retirement
In June 2019, Vince Carter stated that he was planning to retire at the end of the 2019-2020 season.
September 20, 2019: Carter Re-signs with Hawks
Vince Carter re-signed with the Atlanta Hawks on September 20, 2019, beginning his 22nd season in the NBA.
October 24, 2019: Carter Begins 22nd Season
On October 24, 2019, Vince Carter officially started his 22nd season in the NBA, playing for the Atlanta Hawks. Notably, four of his teammates were born after he was drafted in 1998.
December 10, 2019: Carter Reaches 1,500 Games Played
Vince Carter became the fifth player in NBA history to play at least 1,500 games on December 10, 2019.
January 4, 2020: Carter Plays in Four Decades
During a win against the Indiana Pacers on January 4, 2020, Vince Carter became the only player in NBA history to play in four different decades.
January 22, 2020: Carter Passes Alex English in Scoring
Vince Carter moved past Alex English for 19th on the NBA all-time scoring list on January 22, 2020.
January 31, 2020: Carter 3rd in All-Time Games Played
On January 31, 2020, Vince Carter moved up to 3rd place in all-time NBA games played with 1,523, passing Dirk Nowitzki.
March 11, 2020: Carter's Final Game
On March 11, 2020, Vince Carter hit a three-pointer in the final seconds of a game against the New York Knicks. This became his final NBA game as the season was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
June 25, 2020: Carter Announces Retirement
Vince Carter officially announced his retirement from the NBA on June 25, 2020, at age 43.
September 17, 2020: Signed with ESPN
On September 17, 2020, Vince Carter signed a multi-year contract with ESPN as an NBA and college basketball analyst.
July 2023: Left ESPN
In July 2023, ESPN did not renew Vince Carter's contract as part of network layoffs.
October 24, 2023: Joined YES Network
On October 24, 2023, Vince Carter joined YES Network as a part-time analyst for Brooklyn Nets games.
2023: Florida Sports Hall of Fame Induction
Vince Carter was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 2023.
2024: Hall of Fame Induction
Vince Carter was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2024.