The Evergreen: Vince Carter

Whether you are an NBA fan or just an occasional viewer, a kid or an adult, you’ve probably seen Vince Carter playing basketball at least once. Yes, Carter is the only player in the NBA history to appear in a game in four different decades. He was drafted to NBA in 1998 by the Golden State Warriors and retired on June 25, 2020 as an Atlanta Hawk. Born in Daytona Beach, Florida, Carter attended Mainland High School in his hometown. He led Mainland’s basketball team to its first Class 6A state title in 56 years and was a 1995 McDonald’s All- American. He was contacted by 77 NCAA Division I schools but ultimately chose the North Carolina Tar Heels. Considered one of the greatest dunkers in basketball history, Carter won the Slam Dunk Contest at All-Star Weekend in 2000. He was an eight-time All-Star in NBA and a two-time All- NBA Team selection. He played for eight different NBA teams in his career and contributed significantly to all the teams. He represented the United States in the 2000 Summer Olympics and won a gold medal. President Barack Obama, an avid basketball fan, gave praise to Carter, referring to Carter’s game as a “huge treat for me ever since he has been playing for the Tar Heels.”

Thank you for the lifetime of memories, champion!