NBA OGs: Kevin Durant, LeBron James and Stephen Curry go on their journey as friends and opponents

Kevin Durant (left), LeBron James and Stephen Curry come together for a chat in Lille, France.

As the world takes in 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 their careers took. In “NBA OGs: Friends and Rivals,” the trio revisits their storied journeys as opponents and teammates, sharing insights into the rivalries, friendships and legacy they 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 the legendary Finals battles between the Cavaliers and Warriors to Durant’s transformative impact upon joining Golden State.

“You don’t sleep well the night before you play greatness the next day,” James said.

For four straight NBA Finals (2015-2018), we’ve seen James and Curry battle it out with Curry’s Warriors taking a 3–1 lead. Then came Durant’s arrival in Golden State in 2016, tipping the balance of power further.

“You wear this all year. Those offseason workouts, in the back of your mind, his (James’) face is in your head,” Curry said, pointing to James. “Think about who you’ll have to defeat to get to the end goal.”

With nearly 55 years of NBA experience, James (22), Durant (17) and Curry (16) remain at the top of their games, leading their franchises to victory. James is looking to further mark his greatness in the historic Los Angeles Laker franchise. Curry preserving 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 aims to bring Phoenix its first NBA title in franchise history. Their volume and longevity is a testament to their tireless work ethic and adaptability.

When asked what they would take from each other’s games, their answers highlighted their mutual admiration.

“Give me KD’s pull, hes, left,” James said. Durant, meanwhile, praised Curry’s shooting: “His quick change.”

Curry added, “I’ll take LeBron’s IQ. Being able to control the tempo and flow of the game on your own is crazy.”

The trio proved that their influence far exceeded their rivalry. As fans savor this conversation, all three stars will also take the court for their signature games on Christmas Day, when Durant’s Suns face Nikola Jokić and the Denver Nuggets and James’ Lakers battle Curry’s Warriors.