Throughout the history of the NBA, more than 4,500 players have played in the league, and the average career lasts about 4.5 years. This is not surprising because basketball is a fast-paced and physical game, making it rare to see players over 35, let alone those who are 40.
However, there are some exceptions. A few players have managed to have long careers, competing at a high level for 15 or even 20 seasons, which is impressive. Let’s look at the five players who have played the longest in the NBA.
5. Kevin Garnett
Kevin Garnett played 21 seasons in his career, appearing in 1,462 games for the Timberwolves, Celtics, and Nets. Known for his defensive skills and intensity, Garnett was a 15-time NBA All-Star and won an NBA championship with the Celtics in 2008.
He was the NBA MVP in 2004 and is seen as one of the best power forwards ever. Garnett’s versatility allowed him to play both power forward and center, and he was a strong leader on and off the court. His career averages include 17.8 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game.
4. Dirk Nowitzki
Dirk Nowitzki also played 21 seasons, all with the Dallas Mavericks, from 1998 to 2019. Nowitzki appeared in 1,522 games and demonstrated exceptional scoring skills and a unique shooting style, especially his one-legged fadeaway. He led the Mavericks to an NBA championship in 2011, and the league named him the Finals MVP.
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Many fans consider him one of the best power forwards in NBA history, and he ranks sixth on the all-time scoring list. Dirk was a 14-time NBA All-Star and the league MVP in 2007, celebrated for his loyalty to the Mavericks and his influence on international players in the NBA.
Also Read: From LeBron James To Anthony Edwards: Top 5 NBA Players With Most Career Points Before Turning 20
3. Kevin Willis
Kevin Willis enjoyed a remarkable 22-season career in the NBA from 1984 to 2007, primarily playing as a center and power forward. The Atlanta Hawks selected him as the 11th overall pick in the draft, and he went on to play for eight different teams. A highlight of his career came in 2003 when he won an NBA Championship with the San Antonio Spurs.
Willis was named an All-Star once and earned a spot on the All-NBA Third Team. Over his extensive career, he participated in 1,424 games, accumulating 17,253 points and 11,900 rebounds. His career averages stood at 12.1 points and 8.4 rebounds per game. Willis’s longevity and versatility in adapting to various playing styles have solidified his status as a significant figure in NBA history.
2. Vince Carter
Vince Carter, the famous basketball player, had a great career that lasted 22 seasons in the NBA. During his career, he played 1,541 games for various North American teams, including the Toronto Raptors, New Jersey Nets, Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks, Memphis Grizzlies, Atlanta Hawks, and Sacramento Kings.
Famous for his amazing athleticism and dunking skills, Carter earned the nickname “Vinsanity.” He was an eight-time NBA All-Star and won the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 1999. Carter also played a big role in making basketball popular in Canada during his time with the Toronto Raptors.
1. LeBron James
LeBron James is currently active and entering his 22nd season, tying the record for the most seasons played in the NBA. He has played in 1,492 games for the Cavaliers, Heat, and Lakers. LeBron is the all-time leading scorer in the NBA, having broken Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s record in 2023 with over 40,474 points.
His career averages are 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game. Moreover, LeBron has won four NBA championships and four MVP awards. Known for his versatility and basketball IQ, he has been selected to the All-NBA First Team 13 times and is a three-time Olympic gold medalist.
These players have made a lasting impact on the NBA with their skills and achievements, setting a standard for longevity and consistency in professional basketball.
