Legends Collide: Curry, James, and Durant Reflect on Their NBA Journey in All-Star Showdown

The 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco marks a historic reunion for basketball icons Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant. Having shared the court in some of the most memorable NBA Finals battles and Olympic triumphs, the trio now reflects on their careers and the evolving dynamics of their relationships.

Rivalries Turned Respect Curry and James, once bitter rivals during their four straight Finals matchups from 2015 to 2018, now share a mutual respect that has grown into a genuine friendship. "It was petty, competitive, and filled with trash talk," Curry admitted. "But there’s always respect. I didn’t like the player, but the person’s always great."

James echoed these sentiments, acknowledging how their rivalry pushed both to greatness. "When you’re in a dogfight, you dislike that person," James said. "But as we get longer in our careers, you appreciate what that person was able to do for you."

The Durant Factor Durant, who played alongside Curry during Golden State’s back-to-back championships in 2017 and 2018, remains a pivotal figure in this narrative. Despite whispers of a potential reunion this season, Durant chose to stay with the Phoenix Suns, citing a desire for a fresh chapter. "You need everybody to be bought in," Curry said. "I respect KD’s decision."

All-Star Weekend: A Precious Opportunity With James at 40 and Curry and Durant both 36, the trio understands that their time sharing the same stage is dwindling. "There ain’t going to be that many times left," James said. "You take it all in and don’t take it for granted."

Curry, who has endured a challenging season with the Warriors, finds renewed hope with the addition of Jimmy Butler. "Every possession just doesn’t feel as hard," Curry said after Butler’s debut. "It has the potential to be really, really fun."

As the All-Star Game approaches, Curry, James, and Durant aim to create one more unforgettable moment. "These opportunities are very precious," Curry said. "From the Olympics to All-Star, it adds other chapters that we never really thought were possible."