The oldest player to ever participate in an NBA game was Nat Hickey, who played at the remarkable age of 45 years and 363 days old. He set this record in 1948.
Nat Hickey's Historic Appearance
Nat Hickey made his historic appearance while coaching the Providence Steamrollers. In a unique moment for the league, Hickey activated himself as a player for two games, cementing his place in the record books as the oldest individual to step onto an NBA court. His brief stint as a player highlighted the early era of professional basketball, where roles could be more fluid than in modern times.
Key Details of the Record
Hickey's record-setting performance occurred during the 1947-48 Basketball Association of America (BAA) season, which later became the NBA. His advanced age for a professional athlete at the time made his participation particularly notable.
| Player | Age | Team | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nat Hickey | 45 years, 363 days | Providence Steamrollers | 1948 | Player (also served as coach) |
This exceptional feat underscores the dedication and passion that early pioneers of the sport brought to the game. More details about the oldest players in NBA history can be found on official league resources, such as the Oldest players to play in an NBA game page.
