NBA's Top 30 Players Over 30: Sportz Nation's List
Turning 30 is no longer the beginning of the end. Thanks to advancements in sports medicine, nutrition, training, and recovery, NBA careers are being extended longer than ever, and some of the league's biggest names are showing absolutely NO signs of slowing down. We're witnessing a generation of veterans who aren't just surviving in a young man's league—they're DOMINATING it.
And while the league continues to welcome an influx of electrifying young talent, don't get it twisted: the veterans aren't ready to surrender their thrones just yet.
So, with the 2026–27 NBA season officially underway, let's give the old heads their flowers. Here are the 30 best NBA players age 30 and older.
Josh Hart (G)
New York Knicks
2026-27 Stats: 9.0 PPG · 7.8 RPG · 3.4 APG · 40.5% FG
Kicking things off at No. 30 is the NBA's Swiss Army knife. Now a certified NBA champion, Josh Hart has is a rare, do-it-all player who helps elevate the team in multiple ways. Standing at just 6'5", Hart rebounds like a power forward, hustles like his life depends on it, and covers an INSANE amount of ground on both ends of the floor. His 6'9" wingspan makes him a pesky defender capable of disrupting passing lanes and giving bigger opponents fits. What Hart lacks in elite scoring ability, he more than makes up for with relentless energy, versatility, and an unmatched willingness to do the dirty work. He might not be the most physically gifted player on this list, but make no mistake: Hart is a winning basketball player, and his impact goes far beyond the box score.
Aaron Gordon (F)
Denver Nuggets
2026-27 Stats: 12.3 PPG · 6.5 RPG · 2.5 APG · 34.2% FG
When healthy, Aaron Gordon is one of the most valuable complementary players in the league, and the Denver Nuggets learned that the hard way last season. After battling a brutal series of injuries that limited him to just 36 regular-season appearances, Gordon's absence left a noticeable void on both ends of the floor. An absolute athletic freak, Air Gordon can still jump out of the gym, throw down thunderous dunks over virtually anybody, and defend multiple positions with his imposing physicality. He's developed into a respectable perimeter threat, connecting on nearly 39% of his three-point attempts last season. Unfortunately, the 31-year-old has endured a rather ugly start to the 2026–27 campaign, shooting a dreadful 34.2% from the field through four games, including consecutive seven-point outings. It's early in the season, however.
Dillon Brooks (F)
Phoenix Suns
2026-27 Stats: 14.7 PPG · 3.7 RPG · 3.3 APG · 37.8% FG
Love him or hate him, there's no denying Dillon Brooks is one of the NBA's fiercest competitors. Coming off a career year in which he averaged 20.2 points per contest, Dillon the Villain has evolved into a legitimate offensive weapon, and with Grayson Allen now out of Phoenix, Brooks should continue to shoulder a significant scoring responsibility. At 6-foot-7 and a muscular 225 pounds, Brooks is a physical forward who can bully smaller defenders in the post and knock down shots from the perimeter. But make no mistake, defense remains his bread and butter. Brooks takes immense pride in guarding the opposing team's best player, getting under their skin, and making opposing fanbases absolutely DESPISE him. He's an agitator, an enforcer, and the kind of relentless competitor every team would love to have on its side. Frankly, it's shocking that a defender of his caliber has earned just one All-Defensive Team selection in nine seasons.
CJ McCollum (G)
Atlanta Hawks
2026-27 Stats: 16.4 PPG · 1.6 RPG · 1.8 APG · 55.2% FG
Would you believe CJ McCollum is already 35 years old? Time certainly flies, but fortunately, the former Most Improved Player hasn't forgotten how to put the ball in the basket. One of the smoothest and most technically gifted scorers of his generation, McCollum has spent over a decade terrorizing defenders with his silky midrange jumper, crafty handles, and lethal three-point shooting. The veteran guard is averaging 16.4 points on a ridiculous 55.2% shooting from the field, including 44.4% from beyond the arc, despite playing just 25 minutes per contest. McCollum has built up a tremendous career built on scoring and could possibly crack into the 20k points club.
Dejounte Murray (G)
New Orleans Pelicans
2026-27 Stats: 17.8 PPG · 5.8 RPG · 6.0 APG · 46.8% FG
Healthy, hungry, and with a MAJOR chip on his shoulder, Dejounte Murray is back with something to prove. After injuries derailed much of his first two seasons in New Orleans, the former All-Star is determined to help the Pelicans return to playoff contention. And so far, he's looking like his old self, averaging 18 points, six rebounds, six assists, and two steals per contest. A gifted two-way guard with tremendous defensive instincts, Murray has also showcased his ability to orchestrate an offense and create opportunities for his teammates. However, one question continues to linger: will he ever develop a reliable three-point shot? He's connecting on just 20% of his attempts from deep thus far, a glaring weakness in an otherwise well-rounded offensive arsenal. Nevertheless, Murray knows how to make an impact without relying on the long ball, and it'll be fascinating to see how New Orleans balances his minutes with those of rising star Jeremiah Fears.
Jrue Holiday (G)
Portland Trail Blazers
2026-27 Stats: 14.0 PPG · 3.0 RPG · 4.0 APG · 50.0% FG
At 36 years old, Jrue Holiday continues to play elite defense. A six-time All-Defensive Team selection and two-time NBA champion, Holiday has spent nearly two decades making life MISERABLE for opposing guards, and remarkably, he hasn't lost his touch. While he may not be the offensive centerpiece he once was, the veteran remains an incredibly intelligent playmaker, reliable shooter, and one of the toughest perimeter defenders in basketball. Now operating in a reserve role behind Portland's backcourt of Damian Lillard and Ja Morant, Holiday could emerge as a legitimate Sixth Man of the Year candidate. His athleticism might not be what it was a decade ago, but his instincts, defensive tenacity, and championship pedigree remain invaluable.
Rudy Gobert (C)
Minnesota Timberwolves
2026-27 Stats: 6.6 PPG · 12.2 RPG · 1.0 APG · 37.0% FG
At this point, Rudy Gobert is building a defensive resumé that belongs in the history books. The four-time Defensive Player of the Year earned his EIGHTH All-Defensive First Team selection last season. We're talking about a player who has a legitimate argument for being one of the 10 greatest defensive centers to ever grace an NBA court. Even at 34 years old, the French big remains an imposing presence in the paint, altering shots, protecting the rim, and making life miserable for anyone brave enough to challenge him. His rebounding hasn't missed a beat either, as he's hauling in a monstrous 12.2 boards per contest to begin the 2026–27 campaign. Unfortunately, his offensive production has been downright UGLY, averaging just 6.6 points on a shocking 37% shooting from the field. For a 7-foot-1 center who operates almost exclusively around the basket, those numbers are difficult to stomach, but Gobert's defense is unmatched. I have a feeling we won't fully appreciate it until it's gone.
Derrick White (G)
Boston Celtics
2026-27 Stats: 12.5 PPG · 4.0 RPG · 6.3 APG · 44.2% FG
Derrick White didn't truly blossom until he was approaching 30, and his evolution has been nothing short of remarkable. Since arriving in Boston, White has transformed from a relatively unheralded role player into one of the league's most complete two-way guards, earning three All-Defensive Team selections and an NBA championship along the way. The 32-year-old was particularly phenomenal defensively last season, earning All-Defensive First Team honors while leading ALL guards with an astonishing 98 blocked shots. There aren't many 6-foot-4 guards that can protect the rim like that. And while his offensive efficiency has been a concern in recent years, White is showing signs of improvement, shooting 44.2% from the field to begin the 2026–27 campaign after connecting on just 39.4% of his attempts last season. His scoring remains a work in progress, but his defense makes him invaluable to Boston.
Norman Powell (G)
Chicago Bulls
2026-27 Stats: 21.6 PPG · 2.8 RPG · 1.8 APG · 43.3% FG
Who says you can't bloom into a star in your 30s? Norman Powell is living proof that some players truly do get better with age. After spending much of his career as a dependable role player and offensive spark plug, Powell enjoyed a remarkable breakout at 31 before earning his FIRST All-Star selection last season at 32 years old. Now 33, the former NBA champion has taken his talents from Miami to Chicago. Powell is leading the team with an impressive 21.6 points per contest. A lethal three-point shooter with explosive scoring instincts, Powell can manufacture buckets in a HURRY, whether he's attacking the basket, spotting up from deep, or creating his own shot.
Paul George (F)
Boston Celtics
2026-27 Stats: 22.3 PPG · 6.0 RPG · 3.5 APG · 47.0% FG
If we're judging strictly by how these guys have performed to begin the season, there's a legitimate argument Paul George should be much higher on this list. At 36, the nine-time All-Star appears to have discovered the fountain of youth, and the Boston Celtics are reaping the benefits. After arriving in Boston as part of the blockbuster trade that sent Jaylen Brown to Philadelphia, PG-13 has wasted absolutely no time reminding the basketball world what he's capable of. Through four games, he's averaging an impressive 22.3 points, 6 rebounds, and 2.3 steals while shooting 47% from the field and a scorching 43.8% from beyond the arc! He erupted for 38 points and SEVEN three-pointers in his Celtics debut which set a franchise record. A silky-smooth three-level scorer with tremendous defensive instincts, George has fit surprisingly well, and here's hoping he stays healthy.
Julius Randle (F)
Brooklyn Nets
2026-27 Stats: 22.5 PPG · 7.5 RPG · 5.8 APG · 48.4% FG
New threads, same buckets. Julius Randle has taken his talents to Brooklyn. Teaming up with Michael Porter Jr., Randle has given the struggling Nets a legitimate offensive one-two punch, with both forwards averaging over 22 points per contest to begin the 2026–27 campaign. The 31-year-old is stuffing the stat sheet with an impressive 22.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game while shooting a respectable 48.4% from the field. A bruising, physical scorer who can bully defenders in the post, create his own shot, and facilitate for his teammates, Randle remains one of the NBA's most versatile offensive power forwards. Unfortunately, the Nets have struggled to translate their newfound offensive firepower into victories, starting the season off 0-4.
Zach LaVine (G)
Sacramento Kings
2026-27 Stats: 26.0 PPG · 3.4 RPG · 3.6 APG · 50.0% FG
You can't afford to leave LaVine open right now. After an injury-riddled 2025–26 campaign that limited him to just 39 appearances, the two-time All-Star has returned with a VENGEANCE. At 31 years old, LaVine is absolutely torching defenses to begin the 2026–27 season, leading Sacramento with a ridiculous 26 points per contest on an incredibly efficient 52.2% shooting from the field. A lethal three-level scorer, LaVine is especially dangerous in the midrange, where his jumper, explosive first step, and ability to knock down heavily contested shots make him an absolute nightmare to contain. Unfortunately, Sacramento hasn't been able to translate his individual scoring into victories, but LaVine certainly isn't the problem offensively.
James Harden (G)
Cleveland Cavaliers
2026-27 Stats: 17.4 PPG · 4.6 RPG · 6.2 APG · 36.2% FG
Enjoy it while it lasts, folks, because we may never see another player quite like him. At 37, Harden continues to defy Father Time, and while his days of averaging 35 points per game are long behind him, The Beard remains one of the most gifted offensive orchestrators in basketball. Now fully embracing his role as Cleveland's floor general, Harden has shown tremendous willingness to take an offensive backseat to Donovan Mitchell, instead focusing on creating opportunities for his teammates and keeping the Cavaliers' offense running like a well-oiled machine. He's averaging 15.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 6.8 assists through four games. Unfortunately, his shooting has been downright ugly, connecting on just 36.2% of his attempts from the field and 29% from beyond the arc. Nevertheless, Harden's ability to manipulate defenses, control the tempo, and make difficult passes look effortless remains a sight to behold.
Domantas Sabonis (C)
Sacramento Kings
2026-27 Stats: 17.0 PPG · 16.2 RPG · 7.2 APG · 70.0% FG
Ladies and gentlemen, Domantas Sabonis is BACK, and he looks like a monster. After an injury-plagued 2025–26 campaign that limited him to just 19 appearances, the three-time All-Star appears determined to make up for lost time. Through four games, the Lithuanian big man is averaging a remarkable 17 points, a league-leading 16.2 rebounds, and 7.2 assists while shooting an absolutely absurd 70% from the field. An elite rebounder, phenomenal interior scorer, and one of the most gifted passing big men in basketball, Sabonis remains a walking double-double who can orchestrate an entire offense from the post. Unfortunately, Sacramento's early struggles (0-5) have overshadowed his skill, but if Sabonis can stay on the court and maintain this level of production, a fourth All-Star appearance could certainly be in the cards.
Kyrie Irving (G)
Dallas Mavericks
2026-27 Stats: 18.0 PPG · 3.2 RPG · 3.8 APG · 49.1% FG
Uncle Drew is BACK, and basketball fans couldn't be happier. After missing the ENTIRE 2025–26 season while recovering from a devastating ACL tear, Kyrie Irving has finally returned to the hardwood. Nearly 600 days removed from his last NBA appearance, the nine-time All-Star is averaging a respectable 18 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists while shooting an impressive 51% from the field through four games. Not bad for someone who hasn't played meaningful basketball in well over a year. His mesmerizing handles, ridiculous finishing ability, and silky-smooth jumper remain a sight to behold, although Dallas is understandably taking precautions with his workload. And with the Mavericks looking to establish themselves as legitimate contenders in the Western Conference, a healthy Kyrie could make ALL the difference.
Damian Lillard (G)
Portland Trail Blazers
2026-27 Stats: 18.5 PPG · 3.8 RPG · 3.5 APG · 40.0% FG
Dame Time is back in Portland, and it feels just right. After spending two seasons in Milwaukee and missing the entire 2025–26 campaign with a torn Achilles, Damian Lillard has returned to the O. Now 36 years old, the nine-time All-Star might not have the same explosiveness he did in his prime, but he's still capable of dropping 20 points on any given night. Lillard wasted no time announcing his return, pouring in 25 points and drilling six three-pointers in his season debut against Phoenix. And while he's experienced some early shooting inconsistencies, his limitless range and ability to take over games in the clutch remain as dangerous as ever. Perhaps the most intriguing storyline is his partnership with Ja Morant, as Portland now boasts one of the most ELECTRIFYING backcourts in basketball.
LeBron James (F)
Philadelphia 76ers
2026-27 Stats: 15.5 PPG · 6.5 RPG · 6.8 APG · 42.6% FG
In his 24th NBA season, the King is approaching his 42nd birthday, and the fact that he's still competing at this level is nothing short of unbelievable. Unfortunately, Father Time is finally beginning to make his presence felt, as James continues to battle sciatica and lower back discomfort that have forced him to become more selective with his workload. Now in Philadelphia, the four-time MVP appears content taking a backseat offensively, averaging a modest 15.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per contest. But don't let those numbers fool you. Philly is 4-1 right now. He won't carry a franchise for 82 games at this stage in his career, but when the stakes are highest, you can never count him out. At this point, every additional season feels like another chapter in a career that has completely redefined what athletic longevity looks like. We're witnessing history, folks. Appreciate it while you can.
Kawhi Leonard (F)
Toronto Raptors
2026-27 Stats: 19.5 PPG · 7.5 RPG · 1.5 APG · 32.4% FG
If availability weren't such a major concern, Kawhi Leonard would be much higher on this list. At 35 years old, "The Klaw" remains one of the most dominant two-way forwards in basketball, and his performance last season was nothing short of spectacular. Leonard averaged a career-high 27.9 points per contest at 34 years old, shooting an incredibly efficient 50.5% from the field and 38.7% from beyond the arc. Unfortunately, it's the same old story: INJURIES. After making his highly anticipated return to Toronto, Leonard has already been sidelined indefinitely with swelling in his left knee, with no definitive return date established. It's a frustrating development for a player who, when healthy, can still go toe-to-toe with virtually ANY superstar in the league. ]There's no questioning Kawhi's talent, but until he proves he can consistently stay on the floor, it's difficult to justify placing him any higher.
Anthony Davis (F)
Washington Wizards
2026-27 Stats: 21.8 PPG · 8.4 RPG · 2.4 APG · 44.1% FG
Healthy Anthony Davis? It's a scary sight. After an injury-riddled 2025–26 campaign that limited him to just 20 appearances with Dallas, the 10-time All-Star is finally back on the hardwood, and the Washington Wizards couldn't be happier. At 33 years old, Davis remains one of the most uniquely gifted big men in basketball, combining elite rim protection, tremendous athleticism, and a versatile offensive arsenal that makes him a nightmare to contain. He's averaging 21.8 points, 8.4 rebounds, and a block per contest to begin the 2026–27 campaign. Now surrounded by an exciting young core featuring Alex Sarr, Dybantsa, Kyshawn George and more, Davis has an opportunity to serve as both a veteran leader and the defensive anchor of a potentially dangerous Washington squad. Of course, the million-dollar question remains: can he STAY healthy?
Pascal Siakam (F)
Indiana Pacers
2026-27 Stats: 24.0 PPG · 8.4 RPG · 3.8 APG · 55.3% FG
After carrying an injury-riddled Indiana Pacers squad on his back last season, Pascal Siakam has picked up right where he left off. At 32 years old, Siakam is averaging an impressive 24 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists while shooting a ridiculous 55.3% from the field to begin the 2026–27 campaign. A three-level scorer with tremendous footwork, an underrated passing arsenal, and a seemingly endless supply of spin moves, Siakam remains one of the toughest power forwards in basketball to contain. He's scored at least 20 points in every game thus far, and has been equally impactful on defense. Unfortunately, the Pacers have been dealt another brutal blow, with Tyrese Haliburton sidelined by a hamstring injury just four games into his comeback season. That leaves Siakam with the enormous responsibility yet again.
Joel Embiid (C)
Philadelphia 76ers
2026-27 Stats: 21.5 PPG · 10.0 RPG · 4.8 APG · 42.6% FG
At 32 years old, Joel Embiid continues to remind the basketball world why he's one of the most dominant big men of his generation. After several injury-plagued campaigns, the former MVP is looking increasingly comfortable on the hardwood, and the Philadelphia 76ers are reaping the benefits. With Philly racing out to an impressive 4–1 start, Embiid is averaging 21.5 points, 10 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per contest, proving he can still impact the game in virtually EVERY facet. Armed with a virtually unstoppable midrange jumper, tremendous footwork, and an imposing 7-foot frame, Embiid remains an absolute nightmare to guard. Of course, staying healthy remains the biggest obstacle, but if Embiid can remain available, there's no telling how dangerous Philadelphia could become.
Devin Booker (G)
Phoenix Suns
2026-27 Stats: 23.0 PPG · 4.3 RPG · 5.3 APG · 55.6% FG
As of TODAY, Devin Booker joins this illustrious club. And judging by the way he's playing, he has plenty of basketball left in the tank. One of the best three-level scorers of his generation, Booker can dismantle opposing defenses in virtually EVERY way imaginable. Whether he's pulling up from midrange, creating separation, attacking the basket, or burying contested jumpers, there simply aren't many defenders capable of slowing him down. And the numbers speak for themselves. Through three games, Booker is averaging 23 points and 5.3 assists on an incredible 55.6% shooting from the field, including a MONSTROUS 43-point explosion against Golden State. But what makes Booker particularly special is his ability to create offense without relying solely on athleticism, a skill set that could age beautifully as he ventures deeper into his 30s.
Karl-Anthony Towns (C)
New York Knicks
2026-27 Stats: 21.8 PPG · 13.8 RPG · 3.2 APG · 58.3% FG
After finally capturing that elusive first championship with the New York Knicks, KAT has firmly established himself as one of the most talented offensive big men of his generation. At 30 years old, the six-time All-Star is averaging 21.8 points and 13.8 rebounds while shooting an absurd 58.3% from the field and 40.9% from beyond the arc to begin the 2026–27 campaign. Widely regarded as one of the greatest three-point shooting big men in NBA history, Towns possesses a remarkably versatile offensive arsenal, capable of bullying defenders in the post, stretching the floor, and knocking down jumpers with the confidence of a shooting guard. And let's not overlook his rebounding. But perhaps his greatest accomplishment has been learning to sacrifice individual accolades for TEAM success, which makes him a superb assett.
Jaylen Brown (G)
Philadelphia 76ers
2026-27 Stats: 20.6 PPG · 6.6 RPG · 4.2 APG · 44.2% FG
Fresh off the best season of his NBA career, Jaylen Brown has officially entered his 30s, and the five-time All-Star remains firmly in his prime. After averaging a career-high 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists last season in Boston, Brown has taken his talents to Philadelphia, where he's quickly established himself as an integral piece of the 76ers' title hopes. Despite a tandem loaded with offensive talent, Brown remains arguably the most RELIABLE scorer on this star-studded roster. Through five games, the former Finals MVP is averaging 20.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while shooting an impressive 40.9% from beyond the arc. A tremendously physical two-way wing with explosive athleticism, a lethal midrange jumper, and the ability to finish through contact, Brown can create buckets in virtually ANY situation.
Kevin Durant (F)
Houston Rockets
2026-27 Stats: 22.4 PPG · 6.2 RPG · 3.4 APG · 54.0% FG
KD continues to make scoring look absolutely effortless, and there's a legitimate argument that we're watching the greatest pure bucket-getter to ever pick up a ball. Standing nearly seven feet tall with the shooting touch of an elite guard, KD remains virtually impossible to defend. His silky-smooth jumper, lethal midrange game, and ability to shoot over practically anybody have aged like fine wine. Through five games, Durant is averaging 22.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists while shooting a phenomenal 54% from the field and an absurd 50% from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets have stormed out to a PERFECT 5–0 start, looking every bit like legitimate championship contenders. With a more than capable squad around Durant, this could be the season he achieves what he's been longing for—a third title.
Stephen Curry (G)
Golden State Warriors
2026-27 Stats: 28.8 PPG · 3.8 RPG · 3.5 APG · 47.7% FG
Curry continues to make a mockery of Father Time, and his latest performance is a reminder that shooting is the one basketball skill that doesn't fade. Curry recently erupted for 44 points against Minnesota, draining six three-pointers and going a perfect 16-of-16 from the charity stripe to lead Golden State to victory. He's averaging 28.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists through four appearances. With the Warriors' roster undergoing a period of uncertainty, Curry has essentially been handed the green light to shoot whenever, wherever, and HOWEVER he pleases, and it looks like his shooting touch is immune to aging. At this point, Curry has nothing left to prove, but he's continuing to add to one of the most revolutionary careers in basketball history. Enjoy every three-pointer like it's his last because we'll likely never see this again.
Jalen Brunson (G)
New York Knicks
2026-27 Stats: 25.8 PPG · 2.4 RPG · 5.0 APG · 40.2% FG
Fresh off leading the New York Knicks to their first NBA championship in over five decades, Jalen Brunson has firmly established himself as one of the premier point guards in basketball, and he's showing absolutely NO signs of slowing down. Unfortunately, the reigning champions have stumbled out of the gate, posting a disappointing 2–3 record to begin the 2026–27 campaign. But don't point the finger at Brunson, who's averaging an impressive 25.8 points, five assists, and 2.4 rebounds per contest. A masterful three-level scorer with tremendous footwork, deceptive strength, and an incredibly polished offensive arsenal, Brunson can break down defenders in virtually ANY situation. With the Knicks looking to defend their championship, Brunson will lead the charge and try his best to defend the throne.
Donovan Mitchell (G)
Cleveland Cavaliers
2026-27 Stats: 24.2 PPG · 5.6 RPG · 4.8 APG · 47.1% FG
Having celebrated his 30th birthday in September, Donovan Mitchell is showing no signs of slowing down, and at this point, it feels inevitable that Cleveland will finish among the Eastern Conference's top three seeds. Already a seven-time All-Star, Mitchell is an electric scorer with very little left to prove. Through five games, the Cavaliers star is averaging 24.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.8 assists while shooting a respectable 47% from the field. A phenomenal three-level scorer with athleticism, a lethal pull-up jumper, and an uncanny ability to finish through contact, Mitchell remains an absolute nightare for opposing defenses. And with James Harden now handling more of the playmaking responsibilities, Spida has even greater freedom to do what he does best—score. The one glaring ommision from his portfolio is a deep postseason run.
Giannis Antetokounmpo (F)
Miami Heat
2026-27 Stats: 27.6 PPG · 11.2 RPG · 4.6 APG · 56.7% FG
It's almost hard to believe Giannis Antetokounmpo is already 31 years old, considering it feels like YESTERDAY that he was terrorizing the league en route to back-to-back MVP awards in 2019 and 2020. Now in Miami, the two-time MVP continues to establish himself as one of the greatest power forwards to ever grace a basketball court. Through five games, Giannis is averaging a ridiculous 27.6 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 4.6 assists while shooting nearly 57% from the field. Unfortunately, the Heat have gotten off to a disastrous 1–4 start, and despite Giannis' best efforts, victories have been incredibly difficult to come by. But you can't really blame Giannis. He's already delivered 30-point performances, including a 36-point, 12-rebound masterpiece against Detroit, and hauled in eighteen rebounds to help Miami secure its first victory of the season. Virtually unstoppable on the drive, Giannis combines athleticism, length, and physicality with tremendous defensive versatility.
Nikola Jokić (C)
Denver Nuggets
2026-27 Stats: 22.0 PPG · 10.5 RPG · 9.0 APG · 45.2% FG
Our resident basketball genius takes the number one spot. At 31 years old, the three-time MVP is showing absolutely no signs of relinquishing his throne, and his latest accomplishment is another reminder that we're witnessing one of the greatest players to ever step onto an NBA court. In Denver's 104–91 victory over New Orleans, Jokic recorded 21 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists to notch his 200th career triple-double, becoming just the second player in NBA history to reach that milestone alongside Russell Westbrook. Last season by becoming the first player ever to lead the NBA in both assists and rebounds per game. The otherworldly court vision, impeccable footwork, and a seemingly effortless scoring arsenal, Jokić makes the extraordinary look routine. Players like this don't come around often.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Father Time is coming for everybody, but he may have to wait a bit longer. With LeBron James continuing to rewrite the rules, Curry still lighting up defenses, and Nikola Jokić showing no signs of relinquishing his throne, how long can they keep the party going?
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Thanks for reading!
-Joel Piton
(@jp7ton)
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