Kevin Durant (left), LeBron James & Stephen Curry come together for a conversation in Lille, France.
As the world takes in the NBA on Christmas Day feast, three of the league’s most iconic players — Kevin Durant, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry — sit down to reflect on the miraculous paths that have intertwined their careers. In ‘NBA OGs: Friends and Rivals’, the trio revisits their storied journeys as opponents and teammates, sharing insights on the rivalries, friendships, and legacy they’ve built together.
Few players in NBA history have defined an era as distinctly as Durant, James, and Curry. Their legacies are etched into the league’s most memorable moments, from legendary Finals battles between the Cavaliers and Warriors to Durant’s transformative impact upon joining Golden State.
“You don’t sleep great the night before you play greatness the next day,” James said.
For four consecutive NBA Finals (2015-2018), we witnessed James and Curry battle it out with Curry’s Warriors taking a 3–1 edge. Then came Durant’s arrival in Golden State in 2016, tilting the balance of power even further.
“You carry that all year. Those offseason workouts, in the back of your mind, his [James’] face is in your head,” Curry said, pointing to James. “Thinking about who you’re going to have to beat to get to the ultimate goal.”
With nearly 55 years of NBA experience combined, James (22), Durant (17), and Curry (16) remain at the top of their games, leading their franchises in pursuit of victory. James looks to further mark his greatness in the Los Angeles Laker’s historic franchise. Curry holding onto his dynasty and extending Golden State’s run as one of the most successful franchises in all of sports over the last 10 years. And Durant, who has his sights set on bringing Phoenix its’ first NBA title in franchise history. Their drive and longevity are a testament to their tireless work ethic and adaptability.
When asked what they’d take from each other’s games, their responses highlighted their mutual admiration.
“Give me KD’s pull-up, hesi, left,” James said. Meanwhile, Durant praised Curry’s shooting: “The quick twitch on his jump shot.”
Curry added: “I’m gonna take LeBron’s IQ. Being able to control the tempo and the flow of the game single-handedly is insane.”
The trio has proven that their influence goes far beyond their rivalry. As fans savor this conversation, all three stars will also take the court for their marquee Christmas Day matchups when Durant’s Suns face Nikola Jokić and the Denver Nuggets and James’ Lakers battle Curry’s Warriors.
