Shaquille O’Neal May Be Oldest in NBA, But Far From Oldest in NBA History

Thirty-nine-year-old Lindsey Hunter ended his playing career this past season after being released by the Chicago Bulls and immediately joining the team's front office.

Upon Hunter's retirement, Shaquille O'Neal became the oldest player in the NBA at 38 years of age — edging out the likes of Grant Hill, Juwan Howard, Jason Kidd and Theo Ratliff.

In truth, 38 isn't very old for the oldest player in the NBA. Kevin Willis, who retired in 2007, played until he was 45 years old. Nat Hickey of the 1947-48 Providence Steamrollers even played in the association at nearly 46, making him the oldest ever.

Of course, nobody really knows how old Dikembe Mutumbo was when he retired.

Other legends too played into their forties. Karl Malone tried to win a ring with the Lakers when he was in his fifth decade, and long-time teammate John Stockton played until he was 41 too.

Celtics legend Robert Parish played until he was 43 years old, even winning a ring on the Chicago Bulls' bench.

Bob Cousy even came out of seven years of retirement to play for the Cincinnati Royals when he was 41.

Clearly, Shaq has a long way to go.

NESN.com will showcase one Moment of Shaq every day until the
Celtics open the season against the Heat on Oct. 26 at the TD Garden.

Friday Sept. 24: Shaq's helicopter stunt