Kevin Love Discusses His NBA Journey and Future Aspirations
Kevin Love seems to believe that the sooner he steps away from the game, the sooner he might be considered for the Hall of Fame. Despite this notion, he’s determined to extend his basketball career for as long as he can. At 37, Love has just kicked off his 18th season with the Utah Jazz, his fourth NBA team, and is adapting to a new role in a fresh setting.
“I love it here,” Love shared in a recent interview. “It’s such a different challenge being in this environment. I often talk about the idea of ‘paying it forward’ to our younger players. And honestly, I just feel really good out there. Sure, I’ve been playing basketball for 30 years, and I feel like my knee might not be what it used to be, but I’m enjoying it. I know I’m not playing all 82 games anymore, but I give it my all every time I step on the court. The NBA has treated me well, and I want to be here as long as possible.”
Part of his well-being can be attributed to Shift Naturals, a wellness brand that Love jokingly points out has close ties to medical marijuana. With its zero sugar and alcohol content, the brand’s gummies and drinks offer a way for him to unwind after a busy day, whether it’s from practice or parenting.
“This is my 18th season, and I’ve built my career around recovery and consistency. It’s refreshing to have healthier alternatives that actually taste good. Being from Oregon, where these products are made, makes it even more special to me,” Love explained. “I incorporate them into my routine—after I tuck my daughter in or after practice, I turn to these treats. Staying hydrated with sparkling water also helps me avoid fatigue.”
As he embraces sports science in his career, Love sees how it has transformed the game. There’s a wealth of information available now that wasn’t accessible when he began. “Looking back, we didn’t have these kinds of health options. Now, we have products like Shift that promote relaxation. It’s nice to see this evolution,” he reflected. “Guys like LeBron James and Stephen Curry are playing at high levels well into their careers, and I think part of that is the advancements in sports science. It’s amazing to see how longevity has become a reality for players today.”
He continued, “I wish I had known all this when I first entered the league. Understanding how to care for your body and mind is crucial. It really is impressive how even older players maintain their health and performance.”
Love forecasts a more enduring future for players. “I really think we’re going to see players thriving for 15 or even 20 years. With all of the resources available, it’ll be fascinating to observe how this affects their health and well-being in the long run. The idea is to feel good, and I believe that contributes to a better life overall—whether it’s about being a younger parent or partner,” he concluded.
