Vince Carter is definitely not your average 40-year old, and he is all in to prove himself one more time with the Sacramento Kings.
If you grew up in the 1990’s, you’re probably familiar with the video below.
The video which shows Vince Carter winning the 2000 NBA Dunk Contest and guaranteeing himself a spot on the Mount Rushmore of dunking. That dunk contest cemented him as probably the best dunker of all-time. Known as ‘Air Canada’ back then, the 6’6’’ guard also nicknamed ‘Half-man, Half-amazing’ went on to have a great and respectable basketball career, unfortunately without a championship ring, yet.
Carter joins Kings
More than 17 years later and he’s still around, at the age of 40, competing against guys who are half his age. Playing with up and coming talents so young that he can be their dad. And at 40 years old, Carter decided to land with the Sacramento Kings, maybe for one final dance. The Kings organization is not one that gives VC a shot at a title, and he knows that.
But Carter still decided to pick up the offer made by the franchise, joining a young team along with fellow veterans Zach Randolph and George Hill. In the twilight of his hall of fame career, Vince comes after three seasons in Memphis where he was a way above-average role player for the Grizzlies. The same organization where he worked under current Kings’ head coach Dave Joerger.
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So what does a 40-year old that is known best for his out-of-world athletic ability and his fantastic scoring bring to the table? Putting aside all of Carter’s basketball qualities, and he has a plethora, Carter carries his swag to California. He also brings his personality and his presence on the court and in the locker room. Carter has tons of experience, a trait that is more than welcome in the newest rebuilding mode for the Kings.
Last Chance?
Vince Carter gives a chance for his fans to see him a few more times on the hardwood. Those 90’s kids, counting myself, will be ecstatic to have the opportunity to watch one of the old dogs, the last of a dying breed, compete at the highest possible level.
With 20 years of NBA basketball behind his back, he can transcend his commitment to the game to the young Kings generation. An excellent role model both on and off the court, a guy who knows what the coach wants, and a veteran who reunites with two former teammates (Zach Randolph and Kosta Koufos).
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Is this going to be Carter’s last dance in the league? Nobody can say that, but one thing is sure, this is going to be fun to watch. How many 40-year olds can still do a windmill or a 360 dunk in your face? That’s right. Not much. Maybe even just one.
Vincent Lamar Carter.