The 2025-26 NBA season features a rare group of veterans who continue to compete at the highest level. While the league evolves around them, their discipline and adaptability keep them active and effective contributors.

These players bridge generations of basketball, offering stability and leadership on teams filled with emerging stars. Their roles may have changed, but their impact remains essential both on and off the court.

Longevity in the NBA is never accidental. Through years of training, recovery, and reinvention, these athletes have shown how commitment and experience can keep a career alive well beyond expectations.

Who is the oldest active NBA player in 2025?

As the 2025–26 NBA season progresses, LeBron James continues to defy expectations. At 40 years old, he remains the league’s oldest active player and is set to play his 23rd season with the Los Angeles Lakers.

He exercised a $52.6 million option to return this season, solidifying his position as the NBA’s oldest active player. Despite his age, he shows no signs of slowing down. In the previous season, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists per game, demonstrating his enduring excellence on the court.

His longevity is a testament to his commitment to fitness and his ability to adapt his game over the years. His continued presence in the league not only highlights his personal achievements but also serves as an inspiration to both current and future players.

Oldest NBA players in the 2025-26 season

LeBron James – 40 years old

LeBron James‘ narrative is not merely that of an NBA superstar, but a phenomenon defying all biological and sporting conventions. Entering the 2025-26 season, and set to turn 41, “King James” steps into territory where time, for him, seems to be only a number—a philosophy he himself has reiterated: “Nah, age doesn’t matter. Age is just a number for sure“.

His presence is far from ceremonial; despite entering the final stages of his monumental career, his on-court impact remains elite, cementing his status as one of the world’s most dominant talents.

His game has continued to evolve, prioritizing intelligence and post-up strength, although the explosive athleticism to attack the rim is still unleashed when needed.

The off-court regimen that sustains this level of play is perhaps the most lauded aspect of this career phase, marking a record of both longevity and excellence. James is poised to compete in a remarkable 23rd regular season, a milestone that further solidifies his status as an enduring icon of basketball.

Chris Paul – 40 years old

For Chris Paul, reaching 40 years old in the NBA is not an endpoint but a reaffirmation of his mastery. Following his recent return to the LA Clippers, he has made it clear that while the 2025-26 season will find him celebrating four decades of life, he’s not certain it will be his last dance. “It’s going to be cool. Like I said, it’s a lot of gratitude to still get a chance to play at this age”, the guard told reporters, according to Sports Illustrated.

Known as “The Point God”, his longevity is rooted in his supreme basketball IQ. His game has never relied solely on explosive athleticism, but rather on surgical court vision, textbook pick-and-roll execution, and crafty defense.

At 40, he remains an on-court conductor whose value is measured in assists, clutch moments, and the ability to collectively elevate his team’s performance, solidifying his legacy as one of the most intelligent point guards to ever grace the court.

Kyle Lowry – 39 years old

Kyle Lowry, the six-time All-Star guard, approaches the 2025-26 season at 39, an age that places him at the apex of veteran status. The Philadelphia native has proven that his worth extends far beyond the box score.

While his on-court production at age 39 is closely watched, his role as a locker room leader and mentor is undisputed and critically important, as it has been for the 76ers, according to PhillyVoice.

He is a player forged in toughness, renowned for drawing charges and tenacious perimeter defense. Though his athleticism may be waning, his leadership, tactical knowledge, and “warrior” spirit remain invaluable assets.

This season also brings an additional layer to Lowry’s profile, as he has started a broadcasting career as an analyst for NBA on Prime, a fascinating duality demonstrating how these veterans begin to carve out their legacy while still actively playing.

Garrett Temple – 39 years old

Garrett Temple, set to turn 40 by the end of the 2025-26 season, personifies the resilience and value of a veteran role player. Unlike the superstars, his longevity is a testament to his professionalism, defensive versatility, and steady locker room presence—a true “system man” who has graced multiple team rosters since entering the league.

Known for his solid perimeter defense and ability to play without the ball, he has earned the league’s respect not for his flashy numbers, but for his reliability and capacity to adapt to any roster’s needs.

His ability to remain in the NBA until 39, with his current contract expiring at the end of the season, underscores that experience and commitment to the details remain a valuable currency in the NBA.

Al Horford – 39 years old

Al Horford, the talented Dominican big man, is the very definition of intelligence in the paint. At 39, and despite the influx of younger talent, Horford remains a crucial pillar in the rotation of a title contender. In fact, he has expressed his intention to play the 2025-26 season, which would be his 19th in the league, according to Yardbarker reports from May 2025.

His game has been refined to counter physical wear and tear: his shot selection remains lethal, his passing vision is elite, and his defense, though more measured, is tactically flawless.

He is more than just a minutes-eater; he is a chess piece whose presence on the court balances his team’s offense and defense, providing crucial maturity, especially in the postseason, where his experience has recently been more integral than that of other starters.

Jeff Green – 39 years old

Jeff Green, affectionately nicknamed “Uncle Jeff” or “The Reverend,” is an example of athletic longevity and personal resilience. At 39, this forward has overcome not only the typical toll of time but also open-heart surgery earlier in his career—a tale of overcoming adversity that adds an epic chapter to his veteran status.

In the 2025-26 season, he continues to contribute his versatility, playing multiple wing and power forward positions. His role with the Houston Rockets centers on experience, professionalism, and the ability to efficiently score off the bench.

At 39, and with a salary just over $3.6 million for 2025-26, his value lies in his availability, court knowledge, and, above all, the championship pedigree he carries, making him an invaluable mentor.

Joe Ingles – 38 years old

Joe Ingles, the 38-year-old Australian forward, is distinguished not only by his deadly accuracy from three-point range but also by overcoming a severe knee injury at an advanced age. His return to action and ability to remain in the league, even with reduced minutes, demonstrates his commitment and the value franchises see in his basketball mind.

The player, starting the 2025-26 season with the Timberwolves, remains an asset due to his high basketball IQ, his passing ability and his vocal leadership. While his court time may be managed, his presence on the roster is far from a formality; he is a secondary playmaker, an elite shooter, and a locker room presence who offers a veteran perspective in a league increasingly leaning toward youth.

Mike Conley – 38 years old

Mike Conley, at 38, is the definition of a consummate professional and a point guard whose game is built on composure and efficiency. The former Ohio State star has shown an astonishing ability to adapt to changing roles, transitioning from a high-production starting point guard to a reliable mentor and ball-handler on contending teams like the Timberwolves.

As athleticism declines, his intelligence in the pick-and-roll and his minimal turnover rate become even more valuable. Though his scoring numbers may have trended downward, his impact on the game’s pace, his positional defense, and his calm leadership make him a crucial puzzle piece. He is a prime example of how a player can remain integral to the NBA, even when the spotlight is focused elsewhere.

Stephen Curry – 37 years old

At 37 years old at the start of the 2025-26 season, Stephen Curry is not just counted among the veterans, he remains one of the league’s most dynamic forces. The key to his longevity is that his game, based on long-range shooting and a constant threat from half-court, is designed to age exceptionally well, as it relies less on physical explosiveness.

He is poised to make history with the Warriors, and while age may necessitate more careful management of his minutes, his gravitational impact on the court is unparalleled.

The four-time champion and all-time three-point leader remains the heart of his franchise, and with a salary approaching $60 million, his on-court value is as high as his contract. He proves that at 37, skill, precision, and vision can still overpower sheer youth.

Brook Lopez – 37 years old

Brook Lopez, at 37, is a testament to tactical evolution in the NBA. The center, a 17-season veteran, has transformed his game from a traditional low-post scorer to an elite rim protector and a reliable three-point shooter, earning him the moniker “Splash Mountain”. This reinvention in the latter half of his career has allowed him to successfully prolong his time in the league.

In the 2025-26 season, whether with the Clippers or wherever his career takes him, he remains a starting-caliber center capable of impacting the game on both ends of the floor.

His height, combined with his shot-blocking timing and his ability to stretch the court, make him a valuable asset. His contract, which extends into the 2026-27 season, is a clear indication that franchises value his unique ability to be a veteran two-way presence at the center position.

Critics didn’t hold back after the Sixers brought in yet another guard, especially one nearing retirement. Social media lit up with questions and skepticism, with some fans even admitting they didn’t know Lowry was still active. But Morey had already gone on the record in support of the move.

“Kyle’s championship experience and Hall-of-Fame resume speaks for itself. He is a proven floor general with tremendous knowledge of the game that is a resource to everyone in the organization,” said Morey. “It’s only fitting that his 20th NBA season will be right here in Philadelphia, the city he calls home.”

Criticism and mockery follow Lowry’s signing with the Sixers

Despite Morey’s support for the one-year addition, many fans wanted answers. With an already guard-heavy roster, the decision to sign a 39-year-old sparked questions about the team’s direction.

“Wasting three roster spots on Eric Gordon, Kyle Lowry and Andre Drummond is inexcusable,” wrote one frustrated Sixers fan. Philly Take’s RB also weighed in, saying, “Using roster spots on Kyle Lowry & Eric Gordon for ‘mentorship’ is just insane. The team also now has a million guards.”

How much are the Sixers paying Lowry?

For what’s expected to be his final NBA season, Lowry signed a one-year deal worth $3.6 million—an increase from his previous contract with the team during the 2024–25 season, which was valued at $2.08 million. It’s also higher than his 2023–24 salary of $2.7 million.

During the 76ers’ Media Day, Lowry opened up about his decision to re-sign with Philadelphia. “I think the time here was short, but it was fun. I got a chance to get to know Tyrese and Joel and get back with Nick [Nurse],” Lowry said.

“Being around Nick was part of the reason to come back,” he continued. “But getting the chance to be around Tyrese and help him grow a little more, help his development… I saw what Daryl, Elton, and the organization were building.”

Lowry also highlighted how the team’s blend of youth and experience was a big factor in his decision to return. “It was like a perfect fit for me. Got a good mixture of young guys, got a good mixture of veteran guys. It felt like a great opportunity.”

Embiid delivers big words for 76ers fans

Joel Embiid, fresh off signing a three-year, $193 million contract extension that keeps him in Philadelphia through the 2027-28 season, had a clear message for Sixers fans: he’s here to stay.

“Philadelphia is home. I want to be here for the rest of my career,” Embiid posted on social media. “I love this community and everything you’ve given me and my family. There’s a lot more work to do. You guys deserve a championship, and I think we’re just getting started! #TrustTheProcess.”

In the team’s official announcement, Embiid reflected on his journey since being drafted. “I started as a Sixer and want to be right here for the rest of my career. I had no idea when I was drafted as a 20-year-old kid from Cameroon how lucky I was to be in Philadelphia,” Embiid said.

“Through all the ups and downs, this city and the fans have been everything, and I am so grateful for how they’ve embraced me,” he continued. “I want to thank Josh, David, and the entire organization. Philadelphia is home, and it’s time to bring this community an NBA championship.”

And that help could come in the form of a player who knows what is like to go the distance and win a championship. According to Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report, the Lakers are a team to watch for Kyle Lowry:

“He’s probably better suited for a bench role, but Lowry is one of the great older veterans in the league. The Sixers may bring him back, either on a minimum contract or with part of their RMLE. While that seems like the most likely outcome, he’ll probably have minimum offers from the [Los Angeles] Clippers, Lakers and [Phoenix] Suns.”

At 38, Lowry is about to hit the open market after spending the second half of the season with the Philadelphia 76ers, who bought him out from the Charlotte Hornets. Before that, the veteran guard was traded by the Miami Heat.

Even though he’s not getting any younger, Lowry could still bring a spark coming off the bench. Besides, he’s got that championship experience from the 2018-19 season with the Toronto Raptors.

Lakers could compete against the Clippers to get Kyle Lowry

It’s still uncertain what route Lowry will take this summer, as the Lakers are not the only team with reported interest in his services. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Lakers’ crosstown rivals Clippers also have Lowry on their radar:

“Paul and Kyle Lowry, whose free agency is looming after finishing last season in Philadelphia, are veteran guards said to interest the Clippers … with a further variable to factor in stemming from Russell Westbrook’s still-to-be determined status. Westbrook has a $4 million player option for next season that he must decide on by June 29.”

However, it looks like the Sixers want to see more of Lowry before letting him go, with Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer naming the guard as one of the free agents the team “most likely would like to re-sign.”

In the meantime, the Lakers face big questions this summer with the coaching search to replace Darvin Ham still ongoing and LeBron James having until June 29 to opt into or decline a player option for next season.

Any trade for Lillard would obviously cost the Heat plenty of depth, and all transactions would be centered around Tyler Herro, Miami’s rising star and most tradeable piece.

However, if the Heat and Blazers were to end trade talks, then a new report states that Herro could be their new starting point guard for the upcoming NBA season, with Kyle Lowry coming off the bench.

Tyler Herro Could Run Point For The Heat

“Kyle Lowry is the only natural point guard on the Heat’s roster, but a person familiar with the team’s thinking said he won’t be surprised if the Heat opts for Tyler Herro or even Josh Richardson as a starting primary ball handler if it’s unable to acquire Lillard before the season opener,” per Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald. “Lowry could continue to come off the bench in that scenario.”

Of course, Herro isn’t a traditional playmaker or point guard by any means, but it’s not like they’re getting a lot out of Lowry lately. Also, they need someone to run the second unit, with Gabe Vincent gone to the Lakers.

Even so, we expect the Heat to re-engage in talks for Lillard before training camp starts. If not, then they should be all over whichever star player becomes available, as they lost a lot of depth this summer.

The USABMNT will start the group stage in Group C with Jordan, Greece, and New Zealand. They are favorites to advance to the Second Round, where they will be part of another tough group. If they can advance to the Final Round, they will be one of the favorites to win the gold medal.

The last time the USABMNT won the FIBA Basketball World Cup was in 2014. They have only two World Cup titles in the 21st century, but they have won a total of 16 gold medals at the Olympic Games.

Which NBA Stars recently visited the USABMNT?

According to a video posted by the NBA on Twitter, the two players who visited the national team were Chris Paul and Kyle Lowry. Paul is a two-time gold medalist with the national team, while Lowry won a gold medal at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

In general, the USABMNT has not won a major tournament or gold medal since 2021, when they won the Summer Olympics in Tokyo. In 2022, they finished in third place in the FIBA AmeriCup.

The 2023-2024 NBA season could be the last for some players who have been in the league for almost 20 years. They still have contracts that will maintain their lifestyle, but after almost two decades, most of these veterans are well-established.

Even though veterans like Kyle Lowry are nearing 40 years old, they still have a lot to contribute to a franchise that needs a player with enough experience to not rely on rookies.

When a player retires, the process is usually quick and painless. Although some players stay in the public eye as TV commentators or in other media jobs, the vast majority of players prefer to retire from public life completely.

Who are the five veterans who could retire after the next season?

Kyle Lowry is first on the list of players who will be free agents at the end of the 2023-2024 season. He is playing for Miami with a $28 million contract, but Lowry is 38.3 years old, which means his retirement could be closer.

Veterans who will be free agents in 2024 and could be close to retirement:

• Kyle Lowry (38.3 years old)
• Rudy Gay (37.9 years old)
• Jeff Green (37.8 years old)
• Wesley Matthews (37.7 years old)
• Mike Conley (36.7 years old)

These veterans will be free agents in 2024 and could be close to retirement. Only Mike Conley (with a $22 million contract) and Kyle Lowry (with a $28 million contract) have contracts over $20 million. Rudy Gay is also on the list, even though he doesn’t have a team at the moment, as he was recently waived by the Thunder.

The Miami Heat had a fantastic run in the 2023 NBA playoffs. But in the end, it looked crystal clear the team lacked another star next to Jimmy Butler to go the extra mile and win the championship.

But it wasn’t just this year that Miami challenged for the title. Erik Spoelstra’s men already had deep postseason runs in recent years, making the Finals in 2020 and losing the Conference Finals in seven games in 2022.

Therefore, everyone expects Pat Riley to do whatever it takes to upgrade the roster this summer. However, it looks like the team will first cut one of its players instead.

Rumor: Heat could waive Kyle Lowry

According to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, the Miami Heat could waive Kyle Lowry if they don’t find a trade partner for the veteran guard this offseason:

“According to two sources, the Heat has been giving thought to potentially using the waive-and-stretch provision on Lowry if Miami is unable to trade him, though a firm decision on that has not been made. That waive-and-stretch mechanism would allocate his remaining cap hit equally over three seasons.”

There are many reasons that would explain this decision. Lowry is not getting any younger (he turns 38 in March), plus he’s entering the final year of his contract. On top of that, he’s due nearly $30m next season. Therefore, it looks like his days in South Florida are numbered.

Rob Pelinka made some minor moves in the offseason, and it became evident that they were still lacking the firepower to make a deep run in the Western Conference, even with a healthy Anthony Davis.

Now, after months of inconsistent play and blowout losses, it seems like the front office has finally decided to do something. With that in mind, they could target a veteran point guard from a struggling team, according to the latest rumors.

NBA Rumors: Lakers Could Pursue Fred VanVleet Or Kyle Lowry

“The 17-23 Raptors have financial decisions to make at some point. Keep this in mind, too: Under team president Masai Ujiri and general manager Bobby Webster, the Raptors are not known for major deals at the trade deadline. VanVleet is worth watching, and with his name linked to a possible Lakers deal, don’t discount a sly move for VanVleet by Orlando,” USA Today’s Jeff Zillgittreported.

“The Heat are notoriously tight-lipped about their plans,” Zillgitt added. “But around the league, it’s believed the Heat are willing to shed Kyle Lowry’s contract, which pays him $29.6 million in 2023-24. The Heat, who reached the Finals in 2020 and the conference finals last season, are 21-20 and in eighth place. Lowry is another player who has been linked to a potential deal with the Lakers, and Minnesota sending D’Angelo Russell to Miami for Lowry would net the Heat an expiring contract.”

Ironically, PG play hasn’t been one of the Lakers’ issues this season, as Dennis Schroder has been quite solid and Russell Westbrook is turning heads off the bench. But it’s nice to know that they’ve finally decided to improve their roster.

The Toronto Raptors legend became an unrestricted free agent this year after nine seasons in Canada. Lowry, 35, had a number of candidates making the queue to sign him in August.

Once again, it was Pat Riley who pulled off thetricks to acquire the six-time NBA All-Star, just like he did to secure Victor Oladipo and former Milwaukee Bucks star PJ Tucker. But why did Lowry picked the Heat?

Kyle Lowry explains his decision to sign for the Miami Heat

Lowry has been previously linked with a move to South Florida in January. When he headed into the free agency, however, he seemed to be closer to other teams. But eventually, the Heat were the winners of the battle and tied him down to a $90 million, three-year contract.

Recently, Lowry opened up on what made him sign for Miami. Speaking to Portland Trail Blazers‘ CJ McCollum on his podcast “Pull Up with CJ McCollum”, he mentioned that his ambitions didn’t exactly meet with the Raptors’ goals:

“This summer, I knew the direction that Toronto was heading in and what they were going to do,” Lowry said, as quoted by Clutchpoints. “They aren’t trying to tank or anything, they’re just going into a situation where those guys are younger and they’re gonna let them take the reins, you know?

“And for me, it’s championship or bust,” he explained, saying that he found in the Heat a place where he could chase glory. “Going to Miami, that was a situation where I felt like that’s what they want to do. I have a close friend in Jimmy Butler there. And in Miami, that’s what they want to do. If you’re not playing for championships, what are you playing for? And that’s the only thought process that went into my free agency.”

Following a surprising run to the 2020 NBA Finals in the Orlando bubble, the Heat suffered an early exit in the 2021 Playoffs when they were swept by the Bucks, who eventually claimed the ring. This season, it seems like Miami wants to bounce back and fight for the championship after so long.

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Just a couple of minutes into free agency, and we already had Adrian Wojnarowski and Shams Charania reporting on players agreeing to multi-year deals. Unless they can hear a team’s pitch, read and sign a contract, and leak it to the media in 15 seconds, it’s obvious that those deals were already agreed upon beforehand.

That’s why the league is reportedly set to investigate the Bulls and Heat for their sign-and-trades with Lonzo Ball and Kyle Lowry, respectively. But, according to Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, the Heat could be on the clear because they had already tried to trade for Lowry this year.

The Heat Can’t Be Punished For Kyle Lowry’s Deal

“At the time, the Raptors laid out potential parameters for a trade, an NBA source confirmed to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, with it also clear at the time what the financial parameters would be to sign Lowry in free agency. Lowry ultimately agreed to a three-year, $85 million contract that starts at $27 million this coming season,” stated the report.

“Aware of those parameters, the Heat last Sunday picked up the 2021-22 $19.4 million team option on the contract of veteran guard Goran Dragic, with that contract along with the contract of neophyte center Precious Achiuwa utilized as matching salaries for the Lowry acquisition,” added Winderman.

The league hasn’t done anything to enforce punishments for tampering. They took a second-round pick away from the Milwaukee Bucks last year over the Bogdan Bogdanovic fiasco, but not more than that.

Should the Bulls and/or Heat be punished, they’d have to forfeit picks, pay a big fine, and they could even void the contracts. But that’s just not going to happen. Maybe it’s just time we put an end to this charade.