Do you ever wake up and wonder which NBA players might be celebrating a special day today? It's a fun way to add some extra excitement to the game, knowing that some of your favorite players are also marking another year of life. For instance, did you know that LeBron James, often considered one of the greatest to ever play, has his birthday on December 30th? Imagine the kind of birthday party a man with a net worth that Forbes estimates at $1 billion might throw. Insane, right?
Speaking of which, Giannis Antetokounmpo, the "Greek Freak" with a wingspan of 7 feet 3 inches, celebrates his birthday on December 6th. This two-time MVP has taken the Milwaukee Bucks to new heights, including an NBA Championship win in 2021. It's no coincidence; his stats echo his performance—averaging 29.5 points, 13.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game that season. It’s not just a birthday; it’s a celebration of a phenomenal career.
Now let’s talk about Stephen Curry, the sharpshooter who redefined the three-point game. Born on March 14th, he holds the record for the most three-pointers made in a single season. To be more specific, he drained an astounding 402 three-pointers during the 2015-2016 season, setting a mark that’s yet to be touched. Imagine blowing out candles after dragging defenders out to the half-court line; not many can say they do that.
Kevin Durant, who needs no introduction, celebrates his birthday on September 29th. This two-time NBA Champion and two-time NBA Finals MVP stands at 6 feet 10 inches with a 7-foot-5 wingspan. Known for his scoring prowess, Durant has regularly averaged over 27 points per game during his career, including an incredible 32 points per game during the 2013-2014 season. His birthday is a date to mark if you’re a fantasy basketball owner.
What about the younger stars? Luka Dončić, born on February 28th, shows why he’s set to become one of the next greats. In his rookie season with the Dallas Mavericks, Luka averaged 21.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6 assists per game. It’s almost poetic to imagine this guy celebrating his birthday while holding an average triple-double in his third season. Talk about a gift to the game.
Chris Paul, the point guard maestro, was born on May 6th. Known for his exceptional ball-handling skills and court vision, Paul has been a part of the NBA's All-Defensive Team nine times and has led the league in assists four times. He turned 36 in 2021 but continues to play at an elite level, a testament to his longevity and conditioning. What’s 36 years when you’re dishing out assists at a high efficiency rate of 10 per game?
Other notable mentions include Kawhi Leonard, whose birthday on June 29th, makes it easy to remember. Nicknamed ‘The Klaw’ for his enormous hand size, he’s a two-time NBA Finals MVP and has won two NBA Championships. His defensive prowess is one for the books, with Defensive Player of the Year titles in 2015 and 2016.
Even if you’re not a die-hard basketball fan, these birthdays add a layer of fun to the sport. It’s like a little extra trivia to share with friends while watching a game. Whether it's the record-breaking shooters, the versatile big men, or the all-time great point guards, celebrating their birthdays makes the NBA season feel even more special. So next time you find yourself scrolling through the arena plus, keep an eye out for these milestone dates, as they give more context to the players’ incredible careers.