Kevin Durant joins Joel Embiid in questioning LeBron’s skills ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics

Why do LeBron James’ teammates keep dissing him for his age? That is the trending question

During a pre-Olympic exhibition match against South Sudan, the United States narrowly clinched a victory with a final score of 101-100, thanks to a decisive layup by LeBron James. This unexpected struggle against South Sudan left many American fans bewildered, as even the Sudanese players seemed surprised by the close outcome.

The game has sparked concerns among some NBA stars. Joel Embiid, in a recent interview with the New York Times, voiced his doubts about LeBron James’ ability to keep up with the demands of elite competition due to his age. Now, Kevin Durant has echoed these sentiments, raising questions about whether the veteran Lakers star’s athleticism is beginning to wane.

Kevin Durant, a veteran player himself, knows the toll of age and injury all too well. Having recovered from a serious Achilles tendon tear, Durant continues to put up impressive numbers on the court. However, even he acknowledges that LeBron James isn’t quite the player he used to be.

In an interview with the Paris media, Durant commented, “Of course, he is not the same anymore. Me too. We figure out ways to be effective, just as Joel has as he’s gone through injuries. The thing about greatness is that you adjust and continue to find ways to be effective. That’s what LeBron has done. He’s not running and jumping the same way he was when he was 25, 26 years old, but he’s still jumping pretty high and running pretty fast.”

Durant’s remarks highlight the reality of aging athletes, who must adapt their game to remain competitive at the highest levels.

Durant Joins LeBron and Curry for Iconic Photo

In a bid to promote Team USA, a special photo shoot was arranged for the team’s three most veteran players. LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant recreated an iconic photo from 1992, where Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and Michael Jordan posed together in their uniforms before the Olympic Games in Barcelona. Known as the Dream Team, that roster remains legendary in basketball history.

Thirty-two years later, James, Curry, and Durant stood in the same pose, capturing a moment that promises to be just as iconic as the original. This photograph symbolizes the passing of the torch and the continued legacy of greatness in American basketball. Be sure to check it out!