What's Happening?
Former Portland State men's basketball player Vonte Carter, who played for the Vikings from 2017 to 2019, has established a vintage clothing resale business. Carter developed a passion for vintage apparel after discovering local resellers sourcing merchandise
from Goodwill bins. His business now includes a dedicated collection of vintage Portland State Vikings sports clothing and memorabilia. This endeavor has led to a collaboration with the PSU Library’s Special Collections and University Archives. As part of the university's 80th-anniversary celebration, Carter's collection, alongside other historical artifacts from the Vanport era through the 1970s, will be featured in a fall term exhibit. The exhibit, which includes a 1957 varsity basketball jacket acquired by Carter, aims to expand beyond traditional photos and documents to showcase more physical artifacts from the university's history.
Why It's Important?
Carter's initiative highlights a growing trend in entrepreneurship among former athletes, leveraging personal passions into business ventures. His focus on vintage sports memorabilia taps into a niche market that appeals to both sports fans and collectors, fostering a sense of nostalgia and connection to university history. The collaboration with the PSU Library also underscores the value of community engagement and the preservation of institutional heritage. By showcasing vintage athletic wear, the exhibit provides a unique perspective on the evolution of the university's sports identity and broader cultural trends. This project not only supports a local business but also enriches the university's archival efforts, making history more accessible and tangible for students, alumni, and the public.
What's Next?
The exhibit featuring Vonte Carter's vintage Portland State Vikings sports clothing collection is scheduled to go live on the first floor of the Millar Library. This display will be accessible to both PSU-affiliated visitors and the general public. The collaboration between Carter and the PSU Library's Special Collections and University Archives may serve as a model for future partnerships that integrate community contributions with academic institutions for historical preservation and public engagement. The success of this exhibit could also inspire other former athletes or community members to contribute their personal collections or expertise to similar university initiatives, further enriching the historical narrative of Portland State University.
Beyond the Headlines
This story extends beyond a simple business venture, touching upon themes of identity, community, and the tangible representation of history. For Vonte Carter, his business is a way to maintain a connection to his alma mater and share his passion for its legacy. The act of collecting and curating vintage items transforms them from mere clothing into historical artifacts, each piece telling a story about a specific era of Portland State sports. This initiative also subtly addresses sustainability by promoting the reuse and appreciation of existing garments. Furthermore, it demonstrates how personal interests can intersect with institutional goals, creating a unique blend of entrepreneurship, historical preservation, and community pride that resonates with a broad audience.
