Who Is the Oldest NBA Player Ever? Full List & Records

By Emma Wilson · December 9, 2028

Nate Robinson is the oldest active NBA player as of the 2024-2025 season, having returned to professional basketball at age 40 through a brief stint in the Big3 league and exhibition games. However, historically, the title of oldest NBA player ever belongs to Nat Hickey, who played at age 45 in 1948.

Understanding the Oldest NBA Player Record

The title of the oldest NBA player in history is held by Nat Hickey, who played two games for the Providence Steamrollers during the 1947–48 BAA season (a precursor to the NBA) at the age of 45 years and 363 days. While Nate Robinson has recently drawn attention for returning to competitive basketball at age 40, he does not surpass Hickey’s record.

Why Age Records Are Rarely Broken

The physical demands of the NBA make it difficult for players to compete past their mid-30s.
Modern sports science extends careers, but roster spots for older players are limited.
League evolution: The BAA (Basketball Association of America) merged with the NBL to form the NBA in 1949, meaning early-era records count toward NBA history.

Historical Context of Longevity in the NBA

Longevity in professional basketball has evolved significantly due to improved training, nutrition, and medical care. In the early days of the league, players often had other jobs and less structured seasons, allowing older athletes to participate sporadically.

Notable Older Players in NBA History

Robert Parish – Played until age 43 years, 253 days (last game: 1997).
Kevin Willis – Retired at 44 years, 22 days after playing in 2007.
Vincent Askew – Last played at age 41 in 2006, though not a regular contributor.

Player	Final Game Age	Team	Season	League Era
Nat Hickey	45 years, 363 days	Providence Steamrollers	1947–48	BAA
Kevin Willis	44 years, 22 days	Dallas Mavericks	2006–07	NBA
Robert Parish	43 years, 253 days	Chicago Bulls	1996–97	NBA
Nate Thurmond	38 years, 295 days	Golden State Warriors	1976–77	NBA
John Salley	38 years, 254 days	Toronto Raptors	1995–96	NBA

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that while modern players like Kevin Willis came close, no one has surpassed Nat Hickey’s age record. Most older players in recent decades served reserve or mentorship roles rather than starting positions. The shift from shorter early-season formats to today’s grueling 82-game schedule makes longevity increasingly challenging.

Recent Developments: Nate Robinson’s Comeback

In 2024, former NBA dunk champion Nate Robinson reignited interest in player longevity by participating in Ice Cube’s Big3 league at age 40. Though not an official NBA return, his performance sparked discussions about second chances and age limits in professional basketball.

Robinson last played in the NBA in 2015 with the New Orleans Pelicans.
His Big3 appearances were symbolic rather than career-reviving.
Media coverage emphasized inspiration over statistical impact.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Oldest NBA Player

Who is the oldest person to ever play in an NBA game?

Nat Hickey holds the record as the oldest player to appear in an NBA (or predecessor BAA) game, playing at 45 years and 363 days old for the Providence Steamrollers in 1948.

Has any NBA player played past age 45?

No NBA player has officially played in a regular-season game past the age of 45. Nat Hickey remains the only player to have reached that milestone, doing so just before turning 46.

Who is the oldest NBA player currently alive?

As of 2025, the oldest living former NBA player is believed to be Carl Braun, who played from 1947 to 1962 and passed away in 2023 at age 95. Current estimates suggest some surviving players from the 1950s era may still be alive, though exact records are not publicly maintained.

Did Robert Parish play until he was 44?

No, Robert Parish retired at 43 years and 253 days old. He played his final game on April 18, 1997, with the Chicago Bulls, falling short of 44 by nearly two months.

Can someone break Nat Hickey’s oldest player record today?

It is highly unlikely under current NBA conditions. The combination of intense competition, physical strain, and roster management makes it nearly impossible for a 45-year-old to sign and play. Unless rules change dramatically or emergency circumstances arise, Hickey’s record will likely stand indefinitely.