Father Time may be undefeated, but LeBron James is certainly taking him to overtime.
The four-time NBA champion and four-time league MVP continues to stuff the stat sheet even in the latter years of his playing career. The 2024-25 NBA season marks the 22nd of James’ storied career, tying Vince Carter for the most in NBA history.
While James continues to defy time, here’s a look at the players who have logged the most seasons across the major North American sports leagues:
MLB
All time
- Nolan Ryan, 27 seasons (1966-1993)
- Cap Anson, 27 seasons (1871-1897)
Active
- Rich Hill, 20 seasons (since 2005)
MLS
All time
- Kyle Beckerman, 21 seasons (2000-20)
Active
- Kei Kamara, 18 seasons (since 2006)
NBA
All time
- Vince Carter, 22 seasons (1998-2020)
Active
- LeBron James, 22 seasons (since 2003)
NFL
All time
- George Blanda, 26 seasons (1949-1975)
Active
- Aaron Rodgers, 20 seasons (since 2005)
NHL
All time
- Chris Chelios, 26 seasons (1983-2010)
- Gordie Howe, 26 seasons (1946-71, 1979-80)
Active
- Brent Burns, 21 seasons (since 2003)
NWSL
All time and active
- Lauren Barnes, 12 seasons (since 2013)
- Jess Fishlock, 12 seasons (since 2013)
WNBA
All time
- Diana Taurasi, 20 seasons (2004-14, 2016-24)
Active
- DeWanna Bonner, 15 seasons (since 2009)
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