NBA
Top Five Oldest Active NBA Players in 2024
Embarking on a journey into the heart of professional basketball’s enduring spirit, this article explores the remarkable stories of five seasoned NBA players who defy the conventional expectations of age in the world of sports. From their early draft days to the present, each player's unique journey is dissected, shedding light on the unparalleled skills, natural fitness, and adaptability that have allowed them to remain pivotal forces on the court.
Image Credits: Lakers' Twitter (X) Account & Suns' Twitter (X) Account
Who are the oldest active players in the NBA?
In the ever-evolving world of professional basketball, age is often considered a factor that leads players to the twilight of their careers. However, a handful of seasoned veterans defy this notion, showcasing not only their enduring skills but also their invaluable contributions to the game. Here, we take a closer look at the top five oldest active NBA players, each a living testament to the longevity and adaptability required to thrive in the fast-paced world of the National Basketball Association (NBA).
This list was accumulated on January 2nd, 2024.
1. LeBron James (39 years, three days) – Los Angeles Lakers
The oldest active player in the NBA currently is arguably the greatest player of all time to play in the league. Born on December 30, 1984, LeBron James is a basketball prodigy whose career has spanned over two decades.
At 39 years and three days, he continues to be a dominant force on the court. LeBron's remarkable journey began in 2003 when he was selected as the first overall pick in the NBA draft. Throughout his illustrious career, he has played for three teams leaving an indelible mark with his scoring prowess, playmaking abilities, and leadership both on and off the court. Winning four NBA Championships, alongside his four Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, LeBron has forever etched his name in basketball history.
2. P.J. Tucker (38 years, 242 days) – Los Angeles Clippers
With a career that has seen him don the jerseys of seven different NBA teams, P. J. Tucker stands tall as one of the NBA's seasoned veterans. Born on May 5, 1985, Tucker was drafted in 2006 as the 35th overall pick but didn’t make his splash on the league until 2012 after owning his craft in Israel, and Germany, amongst other European divisions.
Renowned for his tenacious defence and three-point shooting, Tucker's versatility has made him a valuable asset for every team he's played for, contributing significantly to their successes. Tucker’s career highlight came in 2021, where he was a pivotal part of the Milwaukee Bucks’ playoff campaign, which saw the franchise lift their second ever NBA Championship.
3. Chris Paul (38 years, 241 days) – Golden State Warriors
Born on May 6, 1985, Chris Paul, or CP3 as he’s been nicknamed throughout his career, has etched his name in NBA history as one of the league's premier point guards. With a career spanning across six teams since being drafted in 2005 as the 4th overall pick, Paul has been a maestro orchestrating plays and displaying exceptional court vision.
Paul's enduring presence in the league is exemplified by his extraordinary NBA-record streak of starting an impressive 1,365 consecutive games throughout his illustrious career. This unparalleled achievement not only underscores Paul's remarkable durability but also cements his status as a player who consistently brings his A-game to the court, night after night.
4. Taj Gibson (38 years, 192 days) – New York Knicks
Taj Gibson, born on June 24, 1985, has been a reliable presence in the paint for five different teams since being drafted in 2009 as the 26th overall pick. Known for his defensive prowess, rebounding, and tenacity, Gibson has weathered the challenges of time admirably. His experience and leadership make him an invaluable asset for any team aiming for success in the competitive NBA landscape.
5. Kyle Lowry (37 years, 283 days) – Miami Heat
The veteran guard, Kyle Lowry, born on March 25, 1986, has been a force to be reckoned with since he was drafted in 2006 as the 24th overall pick. Lowry's career has seen him play for four different teams, and his impact goes beyond the stat sheet. Known for his tenacity, three-point shooting, and playmaking abilities, Lowry continues to be a stabilising force in the backcourt as he approaches 38.
Notably, his significance transcends individual brilliance, as he played a pivotal role in the Toronto Raptors' historic NBA Championship triumph in 2019. Lowry's leadership, clutch performances, and unyielding determination became the bedrock of the Raptors' success.
Conclusion
These five players not only defy the conventional wisdom that age diminishes performance but also serve as inspirations for the next generation of NBA players. Their enduring excellence and commitment to the game make them true legends in their own right, and fans around the world eagerly await their continued contributions to the sport they love.
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