12 Oldest Players to Play in NBA This Century
These 12 NBA veterans proved age is just a number, showing leadership, toughness, and lasting skill well into their 40s.
- Rajat Srivastava
- 5 min read
The NBA has seen several remarkable players extend their careers well into their late 30s and 40s this century. From legends like Vince Carter, LeBron James, and Dikembe Mutombo to role players like Udonis Haslem, P.J. Tucker, and Taj Gibson, these veterans proved longevity comes from discipline, toughness, and adaptability. Their stories highlight how experience, leadership, and love for the game can keep athletes thriving beyond their prime years.
12. Taj Gibson
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Taj Gibson has carved out a career built on toughness, defense, and hustle. Still active at 40, he may not have the flashy stats of stars, but coaches and teammates love his professionalism and energy. Gibson’s willingness to do the dirty work in rebounding, defending, and setting screens, has made him a reliable role player. His work ethic and resilience are the reasons he’s lasted so long.
11. P.J. Tucker
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P.J. Tucker’s journey to becoming an NBA veteran in his 40s is one of perseverance. After bouncing overseas early in his career, he returned to establish himself as a respected defender and corner three-point shooter. His toughness, hustle, and team-first attitude make him valuable even without big scoring numbers. Still active in 2025, Tucker’s grit and reliability continue to earn him minutes on contending teams.
10. Chris Paul
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Chris Paul is a masterful point guard who continues to compete at age 40. Known for his incredible vision, passing and leadership, he has guided many teams deep into the playoffs. While injuries and age have slowed him, his intelligence and steady play keep him effective. A future Hall of Famer, Paul remains one of the most respected floor generals in basketball history.
9. LeBron James
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LeBron James, still active at age 40 in 2025, has defied time like no other player. Entering the league in 2003, he remains a dominant force two decades later. A four-time champion and the NBA’s all-time scoring leader, LeBron blends power, intelligence and versatility. His relentless training and adaptability allow him to keep competing at the highest level, making him one of basketball’s greatest ever players.
8. Dirk Nowitzki
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Dirk Nowitzki retired in 2019 at age 40, finishing a legendary 21-year career with the Dallas Mavericks. Known for his unstoppable fadeaway jumper, he revolutionized the game as a 7-footer who could shoot from anywhere. Dirk led Dallas to its only championship in 2011, earning Finals MVP. His loyalty, skill, and humility made him one of the most beloved international stars in NBA history.
7. Karl Malone
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Karl Malone ended his career in 2004 at age 40, after one final season with the Lakers. “The Mailman” was known for his incredible scoring and strength, ranking second all-time in career points. Despite his physical style of play, he maintained peak conditioning deep into his career. Though he never won a championship, Malone’s consistency and power cemented him as one of basketball’s greatest forwards.
6. Manu Ginobili
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Manu Ginobili retired in 2018 at 41, remembered as one of the NBA’s most creative and clutch guards. A cornerstone of the San Antonio Spurs dynasty, he won four championships and dazzled fans with fearless drives and crafty moves. Even in his late 30s, Ginóbili made big plays when it mattered. His passion, energy, and willingness to sacrifice made him a fan favorite worldwide.
5. John Stockton
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John Stockton retired in 2003 at age 41 after an unmatched 19-year career with the Utah Jazz. Known as one of the greatest point guards ever, he holds unbreakable records in assists and steals. Stockton’s smart play, durability, and conditioning allowed him to compete effectively into his 40s. Quiet but fiercely competitive, he was the definition of consistency, playing nearly every game throughout his career.
4. Dikembe Mutombo
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Dikembe Mutombo, famous for his iconic finger-wag, was a dominant shot blocker and defender. He played until age 42 in 2009, showing remarkable longevity for a big man. His shot-blocking instincts and defensive presence remained impactful even late in his career. Beyond basketball, Mutombo became admired worldwide for his humanitarian work, proving he was not only an NBA great but also a global role model.
3. Udonis Haslem
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Udonis Haslem became the heart of the Miami Heat, playing 20 seasons exclusively with the franchise. Retiring at nearly 43 in 2023, he wasn’t a star in later years but was a respected leader. Haslem won three championships with Miami, known for toughness and loyalty. His influence in the locker room and mentorship to younger teammates made him a legend far beyond his stats.
2. Vince Carter
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Vince Carter thrilled fans with jaw-dropping dunks early in his career but earned equal respect for his longevity. He retired in 2020 at age 43, the only player to compete in four different decades. After his high-flying prime, Carter reinvented himself as a three-point shooter and team leader. His ability to adapt and love for the game kept him relevant and valuable for 22 seasons.
1. Kevin Willis
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Kevin Willis lasted until age 44 in 2007, making him the oldest player of this century. A 7-foot forward-center, he built a reputation as a strong rebounder and steady veteran. His long career started in the 1980s and spanned over two decades. Even in his 40s, Willis kept himself in elite shape, proving discipline and hard work could extend a basketball career far longer than expected.