NBA OGs: Kevin Durant, LeBron James and Stephen Curry unpack their journey as friends and adversaries

Kevin Durant (left), LeBron James and Stephen Curry meet for a conversation in Lille, France.

As the world welcomes the NBA on Christmas Day, 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 into the rivalries, friendships and legacies they’ve built together.

Few players in NBA history have defined an era as clearly as Durant, James and Curry. Their legacy is etched into the league’s most memorable moments, from legendary Finals matchups between the Cavaliers and Warriors to Durant’s transformative impact in joining Golden State.

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

In four consecutive NBA Finals (2015-2018), we saw James and Curry battle Curry’s Warriors with a 3-1 edge. Then came Durant’s arrival in Golden State in 2016, tipping the balance of power further.

“You carry that all year. Those offseason workouts, in the back of your mind, it’s his (James’) face in your head,” Curry said, pointing to James. “Think about who you’re going to have to beat to get there ultimate goal.”

With nearly 55 years of NBA experience combined, James (22), Durant (17) and Curry (16) remain at the top of their games and lead their franchise in the pursuit of victory. James looks to further mark his greatness in the Los Angeles Lakers historic franchise. Curry holds on to his dynasty and extends Golden State’s run as one of the most successful franchises in all of sports over the past 10 years. And Durant, who has his sights set on bringing Phoenix its first NBA title in franchise history. Their drive and longevity is a testament to their tireless work ethic and adaptability.

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

“Give me KD’s pull-up, hoarse, left,” James said. Meanwhile, Durant praised Curry’s shooting: “The quick jerk on his jump shot.”

Curry added, “I’ll take LeBron’s IQ. To be able to control the pace and flow of the game on your own is insane.”

The trio has proven that their influence extends far beyond their rivalry. While fans enjoy this conversation, all three stars will also take the court for their games on Christmas Day, when Durant’s Suns face Nikola Jokić and the Denver Nuggets and James’ Lakers battle Curry’s Warriors.