It used to be a rarity; now it’s almost the norm. The NBA’s biggest stars have shifted from ending their careers with a subdued profile to often appearing as if they could be All-Stars forever. LeBron James stands as the prime example, but he is joined by other names, such as Kevin Durant, who shows no intention of stopping anytime soon.
We’re not surprised. On the verge of turning 38, he remains an exceptional player, currently heading the Houston Rockets and chasing a major goal: competing in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, when he will be nearing 40.
Durant’s desire goes back a long way. Several months ago he highlighted, alongside Stephen Curry, that he wanted to be part of the Olympic event, a sentiment he reiterates now, also emphasizing how special it is to play for your country and how little it has to do with wearing a club’s jersey.
«It’s simply fun, man. It’s an incredible experience. You travel the world… Well, I’m not sure we’ll be able to travel the world since the Games will be in the United States, but in recent years we’ve gone to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Paris, London, the Canary Islands, Madrid… Places that changed not only my perspective on the game but on life in general,» he says in remarks gathered by Nick Friedell for The Athletic.
Kevin Durant and the Special Flavor of the Games
With four gold medals to his name, Durant could join the other 67 men who have earned five, a feat he would achieve as the United States’ all-time leading scorer. In 2024 he averaged 13.8 points in 22.2 minutes, adding an astounding 51.9 percent from three-point range. Beyond the numbers, he has enjoyed it so much that he encourages other players to experience the opportunity to represent their country.
«Bol Bol had the opportunity to play with South Sudan and I encouraged him to do it. I think he was injured, but I told him: ‘Man, you have to live the Olympic experience.’ Being able to play on that stage and see the pride people feel for their roots… I think all players should experience that,» he states.
