Why Vince Carter Left the NBA Ending His 22-Year Career

The Atlanta Hawks' official Twitter page shared its heartfelt gratitude for the retirement of NBA veteran Vince Carter.

In a short tweet, the Atlanta Hawks organization showed its appreciation for the 22-year veteran as they posted a photo of Vince Carter, faced back and arms spread, captioned with a huge "Thank you, Vince."

The tweet contained a link to the NBA's official website that showcased a brief history of Carter's career, as well as stellar photographs of the high-flying NBA star through the years.

THE CURTAIN CALL

Carter made it clear that his signing of a one-year deal with the Atlanta-based team would be his final for the 2019-2020 season.

The couple shared a passion for basketball and later decided to buy a team.

Making an appearance in four different decades in the NBA, the athlete decided that this season would be his curtain call. Still, things ultimately changed with the NBA's suspension last March 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The NBA's return remained uncertain for months, but league officials eventually decided on its resumption to be held at Disney World.

With only some teams invited to finish the season, those with poor standings have been eliminated, with the Hawks being among them. This brought an abrupt end to Carter's 22-year NBA journey.

HIS DECISION

"I'm officially done playing basketball professionally," said the eight-time NBA All-Star in his podcast "Winging It With Vince Carter."

During the podcast episode, Carter explained that, while there was a disappointment, it was much easier to walk away considering that the pandemic's situation was way bigger than he was.

"It's unfortunate, but with the coronavirus taking people's lives rapidly, that's the big picture in my mind," said Carter while putting his feelings on the sudden end to his career aside.

Such an end to his career appears to be a big coincidence to his beginnings in the league, considering Carter's career began on a shortened season.

THE ATLANTA HAWKS

The Atlanta Hawks are co-owned by Hollywood actress Jami Gertz and her billionaire husband, Antony Ressler.

The couple shared a passion for basketball and later decided to buy a team. Initially, the pair eyed the L.A. Clippers but lost the bid to Steve Ballmer.

Eventually, they bought the Atlanta Hawks after owner Bruce Levenson sold his share, following a controversy.