Vince Carter Gave Up All-Star Spot for Michael Jordan's Final Game

Carter convinced Jordan to take his starting position in the 2003 NBA All-Star Game.

Feb. 9, 2026 at 8:31pm

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Vince Carter revealed that he gave up his starting spot in the 2003 NBA All-Star Game so that Michael Jordan could start in his final All-Star appearance. Carter said he told Jordan that if he didn't take the starting spot, Carter would stay in the back and not come out.

Why it matters

This gesture by Carter showed immense respect for Jordan and his legendary career. Even though Carter was in his prime at the time, he recognized the significance of allowing Jordan to start one last time in the All-Star Game before retiring.

The details

Jordan was playing the final year of his career with the Washington Wizards during the 2002-03 season. Despite being 40 years old, he still performed at a high level, averaging 20 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. Carter, who was in his superstar prime with the Toronto Raptors, earned an All-Star selection that year but gave up his starting spot so Jordan could start one last time.

  • The 2003 NBA All-Star Game took place in February 2003.
  • Jordan was 40 years old and in his final NBA season during the 2002-03 campaign.

The players

Vince Carter

A superstar player for the Toronto Raptors who was in his prime at the time and earned an All-Star selection, but gave up his starting spot to allow Michael Jordan to start one last time in the 2003 NBA All-Star Game.

Michael Jordan

A legendary NBA player who was 40 years old and playing in his final NBA season with the Washington Wizards in 2002-03. Despite his advanced age, he still performed at a high level, averaging 20 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.5 steals per game.

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What they’re saying

“I was like MJ [Michael Jordan], if you don't take the spot I'm gonna stay in the back and I ain't going to come out.”

— Vince Carter (ClutchPoints)

The takeaway

Vince Carter's selfless act of giving up his starting spot in the 2003 NBA All-Star Game so that Michael Jordan could start one last time before retiring showcased the immense respect and admiration Carter had for Jordan's legendary career. This gesture highlighted the camaraderie and sportsmanship that can exist between elite NBA players, even when they are competitors on the court.