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Vince Carter is the seasoned pro in a young man's league. Half Man, Half Amazing is in the twilight of his career, but he's out to prove that he can still hang with the young bucks.
Carter spoke with The Associated Press about his age and how he sees himself in a league where he's playing against guys half his age. Carter said:
“I know playing this game that the media and the fans and people can be cruel. It's like, ‘You're old and you're playing against guys half your age. You shouldn't be out here.' But then for me that is my goal, to prove that I'm able to do that. And I put in a lot of work in mentally as well as physically just preparing myself.
“Yeah, I'm still the same person. My approach is still the same. My work ethic, my ability to play the game is still the same. Obviously it's limited. You just don't get to see it as much, but it's the same guy.”
Carter transitioned seamlessly from an All-Star to a nice role player. That is something that many superstars have struggled to do over the years. Kobe Bryant and Carmelo Anthony are a few who come to mind.
Vince never had that problem. After his tenure in New Jersey, it was clear Carter was no longer one of the league's best. Rather than trying to force his will on the court, Carter took a lesser role and performed it well. He learned how to come off the bench effectively in Dallas and has never looked back.
His experience and team-first mentality are two big reasons why he's still playing at the ripe old age of 41.
