In the 2005–06 season, Carter saw an increase in playing time, and increased his scoring average to 4.8 points per game. His best point production was on December 28, 2005, where he scored 14 points against SE Missouri St. coming off the bench. He also started in his first college game on December 18, 2005 against Coppin State University. The Illini made it to the 2006 NCAA Tournament, and Carter contributed 12 points in a first-round victory against the U.S. Air Force Academy.