Magic Johnson, an NBA legend and a pivotal figure in basketball history, recently took to X (formerly Twitter ) to reflect on the profound influence that three of the modern game’s superstars—LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant—have had on shaping the current era of basketball. Johnson, who alongside Larry Bird is often credited with transforming the NBA in the 1980s, highlighted how this trio has carried the mantle in the 21st century, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
"I watched Quincy Olivari’s interview after his 22 point performance last night against the Suns where he cried talking about meeting and talking to his hero Steph Curry, mentioning how he used to sleep in his jersey every night."
"It was powerful and it truly touched me! Everybody should go watch it back when they get a chance."
"Larry and I often get credited for helping change the game, but Steph Curry, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant have been instrumental in the changing the game today!"
Magic Johnson’s comments were sparked by an emotional interview featuring Los Angeles Lakers rookie Quincy Olivari. After a standout 22-point performance against the Phoenix Suns, Olivari broke down in tears while talking about meeting his basketball idol, Stephen Curry. Olivari shared how deeply he admired Curry, even sleeping in his jersey as a child .
This touching moment resonated with Johnson, who encouraged fans to watch the interview, noting how Curry’s impact has transcended the game itself.
Stephen Curry , LeBron James , and Kevin Durant are often mentioned in the same breath as the greatest players of this generation. Each of them has played a unique role in altering the way basketball is played and perceived today. Johnson emphasized that just as he and Larry Bird helped revolutionize the NBA in the 1980s, these three players have pushed the game to new heights in the 21st century.
LeBron James, often compared to Michael Jordan in the GOAT debate, has redefined what it means to be an all-around player. With his exceptional passing, scoring, and defensive abilities, LeBron’s longevity and versatility have enabled him to remain a dominant force in the league for over two decades.
Beyond his personal accolades, including four NBA championships, LeBron has been a leader off the court as well, using his platform to advocate for social justice and inspire future generations of athletes.
Stephen Curry’s impact is perhaps the most visible on the court. Widely regarded as the greatest shooter in NBA history, Curry’s ability to consistently make shots from long range has changed how the game is played. His success with the Golden State Warriors has ushered in a new era of basketball that prioritizes pace, space, and three-point shooting. Teams now structure their offenses to exploit the perimeter, and Curry's influence is evident at every level of the sport, from youth leagues to the NBA.
Kevin Durant, known as one of the most gifted scorers of all time, has expanded the role of the modern forward. With his combination of size, shooting, ball-handling, and defensive prowess, Durant has proven that players of his stature can dominate from every area of the floor.
His scoring ability has often been compared to legends like Larry Bird, and his fluidity on the court makes him nearly impossible to defend. Durant’s stints with teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder , Golden State Warriors , Brooklyn Nets , and Phoenix Suns have earned him two NBA championships and countless accolades.
In 2024, basketball fans witnessed a historic moment when LeBron, Curry, and Durant teamed up for Team USA at the Olympics, leading the nation to a gold medal. It was a rare convergence of the three players on the same team, showcasing the collective greatness of the modern game’s biggest stars.
For fans, this was a culmination of the influence these players have had on basketball, not only in terms of their individual brilliance but also in the way they’ve redefined what it means to be great in today’s NBA.
Magic’s acknowledgment of Curry, LeBron, and Durant highlights how these players continue to inspire, innovate, and leave an impact on the game that will be felt for generations to come.
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