Although time is relentless, figures like LeBron James defy the limits of sport. The four-time NBA champion and four-time league MVP continues to prove his worth in the final stages of his career. The 2025-26 season marked James’ twenty-third season, surpassing Vince Carter’s record. In the world of baseball, pitcher Rich Hill was called up by the Kansas City Royals in 2025, marking his twenty-first season in the MLB.
Players with the most seasons in North American sports leagues
- MLB
- All times
- Nolan Ryan, 27 seasons (1966-1993)
- Cap Anson, 27 seasons (1871-1897)
- Assets
- Rich Hill, 21 seasons (since 2005)
- MLS
- All times
- Kyle Beckerman, 21 seasons (2000-20)
- Assets
- Kei Kamara, 18 seasons (since 2006)
- NBA
- All times
- LeBron James, 23 seasons (since 2003)
- Assets
- LeBron James, 23 seasons (since 2003)
- NFL
- All times
- George Blanda, 26 seasons (1949-1975)
- Assets
- Aaron Rodgers, 21 seasons (since 2005)
- NHL
- All times
- Chris Chelios, 26 seasons (1983-2010)
- Gordie Howe, 26 seasons (1946-71, 1979-80)
- Assets
- Brent Burns, 22 seasons (since 2003)
- NWSL
- All times and assets
- Alyssa Naeher, 13 seasons (since 2013)
- Sydney Leroux, 13 seasons (since 2013)
- WNBA
- All times
- Diana Taurasi, 20 seasons (2004-14, 2016-24)
- Assets
- DeWanna Bonner, 16 seasons (since 2009)
