"Ant was 12-13 years old when he saw me play" - Kevin Durant & LeBron James make feelings known on future of NBA talent

Kevin Durant, LeBron James and Steph Curry have seen their best years in the NBA in the rearview mirror. Now nearing the twilights of their careers, the three players look to keep the torch burning before handing it over to the next generation of stars.

In an ESPN special feature, the three superstars made their feelings known about the young stars in the NBA today, considering them as the future of the league they dominated for years.

“We are (at) the point of our careers where guys that were kids when we were first coming in, now they are grown-ups and you see that full circle and we still here with them ... Ant was 12-13 years old when he saw me play for the first time,” a candid Durant said.

Durant was referring to Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, who idolized him during his teenage years as he honed his game with the current Phoenix Suns forward.

Meanwhile, James, who won four NBA titles in his career, praised the young talents, believing that they can carry the league on their backs the same way they did.

“We definitely are fans of the guys that’s coming up in the ranks and just doing great things. We just hope we have inspired them to, you know, when we decide that we’re done, they can keep this beautiful game going,” James said.

Curry also lauded the energy the young players give to the game, as it provides new viewers with a different perspective on the sport.

“Every year, it’s like some new styles and new, young energy coming through that challenges you. But then, also knowing it’s not going to be around forever — it gives you perspective on enjoying the game now and to enjoy every minute of it,” the longtime Golden State Warriors star said.

The three have been former NBA Finals rivals as James, when he was still with the Cleveland Cavaliers, played the Warriors, led by Curry and then eventually Durant, for four straight championship series.

Curry has matched James' championship tally with four rings, while Durant only had two, both of which were with Curry as a teammate.

James, Durant, Curry have their last hoorah together at the 2024 Paris Olympics

LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Steph Curry teamed up together for the first time ever with Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The trio led their nation to a gold medal, alongside some of the NBA's top young talents, such as Anthony Edwards, Joel Embiid and Jayson Tatum.

The triumphant stint gave James his third Olympic gold medal, Curry his first Olympic, and Durant his fourth straight Olympic title.

There is a high likelihood that it was the last time the three will ever share a court as teammates, as James will turn 40 this December, while Curry and Durant are already 36 years old.