Today’s NBA is arguably more diverse than ever, featuring players from all over the globe at various stages of their careers. Identifying the top player at each age provides an interesting perspective on the evolution of talent, skill, and influence throughout a player’s journey. As athletes age, their roles, strengths, and contributions often change, demonstrating both personal growth and the shifting landscape of the league. By examining the standout players at each age, fans gain a deeper appreciation for the different paths to greatness and the remarkable careers that define what it is to be a star in the modern NBA landscape.
19 Years Old: Bub Carrington (Washington Wizards) #8 – PG
Beginning with the youngest player on the list, Bub Carrington has quickly made his name known amongst NBA fans. His journey began when he was drafted 14th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers, only to be immediately traded to the Washington Wizards in a package deal that included additional assets and Deni Avdija. Carrington’s impressive play has since overshadowed this initial uncertainty for the Pitt graduate. He has demonstrated impressive two-way skills for such a young player, and with a youthful Washington team around him, his potential appears limitless.
20 Years Old: Stephon Castle (San Antonio Spurs) #5 – SG
Staying with the 2024 NBA Draft class, Stephon Castle stands out for beating out Bud Carrington for the 2024-25 NBA Rookie of the Year. This achievement is even more impressive considering the talent in the class, which included future stars like Dalton Knecht, Jared McCain, and Zach Edey. For his young age, fans have been impressed by his ability to read teams on and off the ball. Despite injuries causing San Antonio to narrowly miss the playoffs, the future for Castle and the team is promising.
21 Years Old: Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs) #1 – C
Coming as a shock to nobody, the first overall pick of the 2023 NBA Draft ranked superior in his age group. Standing at 7-foot-3, Victor Wembanyama has quickly risen through the ranks amongst his rookie class and the entire NBA. The recipient of the 2023-24 NBA Rookie of the Year award was also the leading candidate for the 2024-25 NBA Defensive Player of the Year before a blood clot unfortunately ended his season in February. With the potential to be the next face of the NBA, there’s no doubt in any fan’s mind that Wembanyama will succeed. With an average of 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 3.8 blocks, it would be no exaggeration to label him as already one of the best in the world and the NBA’s “the next big thing.”
22 Years Old: Paolo Banchero (Orlando Magic) #5 – PF
Following the trend of first overall draft picks, Paolo Banchero arrived just one year before Wembanyama, also as the top selection. Just three years later, Banchero is receiving high praise as one of the league’s premier two-way talents. His impressive combination of size and skill has quickly made him beloved by his fans. At 6-foot-10 and averaging close to 26 points, Banchero has potentially become the answer to the question the Orlando Magic have been asking since the departure of Dwight Howard: Who is the next face of the franchise?
23 Years Old: Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves) #5 – SG
Similar to the earlier example of Paolo Banchero with the Orlando Magic, two years earlier, the Minnesota Timberwolves also aimed to find their franchise player with the No. 1 overall pick, selecting Anthony Edwards in the 2020 NBA Draft. Now, five years into his career, it’s undeniable that Edwards has risen to the occasion. He has achieved various accolades, including a spot on the 2021 NBA All-Rookie First Team, three NBA All-Star appearances (2023-25), and being named to the All-NBA Second Team in 2024. With these achievements and more, it’s no surprise that if Edwards continues to live up to the Michael Jordan comparisons, he will eventually bring a championship to Minnesota.
24 Years Old: Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers) #0 – PG
The list goes from arguably one of the most impressive teams in the 2024-25 NBA season to one that has greatly disappointed most fans. During an upsetting Philadelphia 76ers season where they went (24-58), many would argue Tyrese Maxey has been the only positive to come out of this season. After a breakout 2023-24 NBA season, Maxey has solidified his position as a top NBA point guard, challenging guards such as Darius Garland, Luka Dončić, and others. Despite the dark future for the team, Maxey could be the player to guide the once-great franchise into a new era.
25 Years Old: Ja Morant (Memphis Grizzlies) #12 – PG
Although he may be the most controversial entrant, it’s no surprise to many that Ja Morant is featured on this list. Setting aside his off-court issues, few would argue that Morant has established himself as one of the top players in the NBA. His exceptional shooting and defensive skills have led the Memphis Grizzlies to the playoffs four times since he was drafted in 2019. Now six years into his career, with a 2019-20 NBA Rookie of the Year, All-NBA Second Team selection, and two NBA All-Star appearances (2022-23) to his name, don’t be surprised if Morant guides Memphis to their first NBA championship in franchise history by the end of his career.
26 Years Old: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder) #2 – PG
Unlike Memphis, who was previously mentioned as a long-term project, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander could be the player to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to their first NBA championship since 1979. Selected 11th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, expectations for Alexander were low after the Charlotte Hornets traded him to the Los Angeles Clippers on draft night. However, seven years later and with a 2024-25 NBA season MVP award in his trophy case, Alexander is averaging an impressive 32.7 points—more than anyone in the league. It wouldn’t be a surprise that by the time he retires, Alexander’s peak may be regarded as one of the greatest in league history.
27 Years Old: De’Aaron Fox (San Antonio Spurs) #4 – PG
Differing from other entrants on this list, De’Aaron Fox may act as a surprise to many on this. Fox has been a reliable and consistent scorer since he arrived at the NBA in 2017. Fox would eventually earn recognition for contributions to the league with the 2022-23 NBA Clutch Player of the Year award. Now following his trade from the Sacramento Kings to the San Antonio Spurs in 2024, and with a young, talented roster supporting him, don’t be surprised if Fox adds an NBA championship to his list of accolades before ending his career.
28 Years Old: Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns) #1 – SG
From a player who departed his team not too long ago, the next entrant is a man many consider to be a Phoenix Sun for life. Having been with the franchise since 2015, Devin Booker has endeared himself to Suns fans and NBA fans everywhere. As the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, Booker also holds the record for the most points scored in a player’s first postseason run. Don’t be surprised if, in the coming years, he cements his place not only as one of the top shooting guards of 2025 but also as one of the greatest shooting guards of all time.
29 Years Old: Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks) #34 – PF
Continuing the discussion of franchise players, Giannis Antetokounmpo has recently been at the center of conversations regarding his status with the Milwaukee Bucks. Drafted 15th overall in the 2013 NBA Draft, it took time for Antetokounmpo to fully develop, but once he did, he was undeniable. Now, more than a decade into his career, Antetokounmpo is in the process of becoming one of the greatest players in NBA history. With accolades including two NBA MVP awards (2018-20), a 2019-20 NBA Defensive Player of the Year award, a 2024 Emirates NBA Cup, and an NBA championship in 2021, it’s no surprise that his legacy continues to grow. Don’t be surprised if one day he is recognized as one of the all-time greats.
30 Years Old: Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets) #15 – C
The list transitions from one future all-time great to the next. When Nikola Jokić was drafted 41st overall in the 2014 NBA Draft, expectations were non-existent. Now, after winning the 2023 NBA championship and earning NBA Finals MVP honors, Jokić is widely regarded as one of the most innovative offensive players in league history. During the 2024-25 NBA season, he averaged an impressive 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists triple-double, cementing his status as arguably the Denver Nuggets’ greatest player of all time. At just thirty years old, Jokić is destined to be remembered as one of the best centers in NBA history.
31 Years Old: Pascal Siakam (Indiana Pacers) #43 – PF
Similar to De’Aaron Fox previously mentioned, this entrant may catch many off guard. His durability sets Pascal Siakam apart from his competition; over his nine NBA seasons, he has consistently remained healthy. Averaging 18 points per game throughout his career, Siakam has been an integral contributor to every team he’s played for, from his current tenure with the Indiana Pacers to his previous role with the Toronto Raptors, where he helped secure an NBA championship in 2019. With limited time remaining in his career, Pascal Siakam is poised to be recognized as one of the most reliable players of his generation.
32 Years Old: Anthony Davis (Dallas Mavericks) #3 – PF
Although Anthony Davis may not be as consistently reliable as Pascal Siakam as he ages, many fans agree that his performances often make up for it. Since entering the NBA as the 1st overall pick in the 2012 Draft, Davis has been a dominant force whenever he’s on the court. The former NBA champion in 2020, has accumulated numerous accolades, including nine NBA All-Star selections (2014-21 and 2024), three NBA All-Defensive First Team honors (2018, 2020, 2024), and the NBA All-Star Game MVP award in 2017. Now with a fresh start on the Dallas Mavericks, fans can expect Davis to continue making an impact in the years to come.
33 Years Old: Kyrie Irving (Dallas Mavericks) #11 – PG
Sticking with the Dallas Mavericks, ever since being traded to the franchise in 2022, Kyrie Irving has shown why he is one of the best of his generation. Whether it’s his time on the Dallas Mavericks or his time on his previous teams in the Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, and Brooklyn Nets, Irving has established himself as arguably the greatest ball handler of all time. With Luka Dončić’s departure leaving a void in the offense of Dallas, many are excited to see if Irving can rise to the challenge once more and pursue his second NBA championship.
34 Years Old: Damian Lillard (Milwaukee Bucks) #0 – PG
The list then shifted from an NBA champion to a player widely regarded as one of the greatest to never win an NBA title. Drafted 6th overall in the 2012 NBA Draft, Damian Lillard entered the league with high expectations that he has certainly met. Over his eleven seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers, he solidified his legacy as the franchise’s greatest player in history. Additionally, the 2020 U.S. Olympic gold medalist has maintained a career-long scoring average of over 20 points since his sophomore year. Sadly, his 2024-25 season was cut short due to a blood clot, and Milwaukee got eliminated in the playoffs soon after. With his future uncertain, fans should honor an NBA legend in the making.
35 Years Old: James Harden (Los Angeles Clippers) #1 – PG
Another future NBA legend who has yet to claim a championship is James Harden. Regardless of his championship status, since entering the league in 2009, he has been regarded as one of the greatest scorers in NBA history. His peak came during the 2018-19 season, when he averaged an impressive 36.1 points per game; coming just a year after earning MVP honors in the 2017-18 season. During this period, Harden secured three NBA scoring titles between the 2017 and 2020 seasons. Even in his later years, he continues to make history, ranking third all-time in three-pointers made in league history. Whether or not he finally wins a title, Harden will go down as one of the most dynamic players ever.
36 Years Old: Kevin Durant (Phoenix Suns) #35 – PF
Fortunately for Kevin Durant, championships have rarely been an issue A two-time NBA champion (2017-18) during his time on the Golden State Warriors, Durant, now a Phoenix Sun, has established himself as one of the greatest players of his generation. Even at his current age, he continues to average 26.6 points per game, which is even more impressive in the increasingly skill-driven league. His illustrious career also boasts four Olympic gold medals, the most ever by a single player, ensuring that Durant’s legacy will remain etched in basketball history.
37 Years Old: Steph Curry (Golden State Warriors) #30 – PG
While Kevin Durant played a big role in the Golden State Warriors’ championship victories, many argue that the franchise’s true cornerstone was and has been Steph Curry. Drafted 7th overall in the 2009 NBA Draft, Curry has crafted a legendary career that has started debates about whether he is the greatest point guard of all time. With eleven NBA All-Star appearances (2014-2019, 2021-2025), four NBA championships (2015, 2017-18, and 2022), two NBA MVP awards (2015-16 and 2016-17), a Finals MVP in 2022, and the record for most three-pointers made in NBA history, Curry has established himself as one of the most transcendent players in league history. As his career nears its end, Curry’s legacy is guaranteed for generations to come.
38 Years Old: Al Horford (Boston Celtics) #42 – C
Unlike Steph Curry, who has spent his entire career with one team, Al Horford is celebrated as one of the league’s greatest journeymen. During his time with the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, Oklahoma City Thunder, and currently the Boston Celtics, Horford has established himself as one of the most dependable players teams can be reliant upon. In 2024, Horford would finally be rewarded for his effort by winning the NBA championship with Boston. With the 2024-25 season rumored to be his last, appreciate Horford while he’s still here.
39 years Old: Chris Paul (San Antonio Spurs) #3 – PG
Among players who have switched teams various times throughout their careers, few can match Chris Paul’s journey. Paul can claim fame for being on seven teams since being drafted 4th overall in 2005. Even though it’s been difficult for Paul to find himself a home since his days as a New Orleans Pelican, he has still carved out a legendary career many would only dream of. Olympic gold medals (2008 and 2012), the 2013 NBA All-Star Game MVP award, countless NBA All-Star selections, and many more are all achievements that belong to Paul during his illustrious career.
40 years Old: LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers) #23 – SF
Now ending with the oldest player on the list, what’s there to be said that hasn’t been said already about LeBron James? While being known as the greatest of all time to a good portion of NBA fans, LeBron James has accomplished almost everything there is to achieve in the NBA since he was selected 1st overall in the 2003 NBA Draft. From both stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers to his tenure on the Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers, James has amassed four NBA championships (2012-13, 2016, and 2020). Even though the NBA’s all-time scoring leader has just recently turned forty years old, James remains a dominant force and continues to define a generation of basketball.
