Kevin Love Discusses Longevity Strategies for His NBA Career

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — NBA champion Kevin Love is beginning his 18th season with the Utah Jazz, eager to embrace new challenges while focusing on extending his basketball career.

At 37, Love reflects on how improved sports science and wellness practices contribute to longer athletic careers. In an interview with Fox News Digital, he emphasized the importance of mentorship. “I keep using the term ‘pay it forward’ to the young guys,” he said. “It’s gratifying for me to show up every day, and I actually feel very good.”

While admitting he isn’t suited for an 82-game season anymore, Love is determined to excel in his games. “I like to go out there and put my best foot forward, and I love to play the game,” he noted, acknowledging the complexities of the business side of basketball.

Love credits his overall well-being to Shift Naturals, a wellness brand. He described the products as helpful, particularly for winding down after rigorous practices. “This being my 18th season and my career being built on recovery and consistency,” he shared. “It’s great to have healthy alternatives that actually taste good.”

He enjoys the brand’s sparkling waters and gummies, which he uses to manage stress and relax at the end of the day. “I typically have the gummies after I put my daughter down at night or after practice,” Love added.

Love also highlighted the evolution of sports science, noting how players now have access to recovery methods unimaginable in earlier years. “You’re seeing guys not only stay around into 15, 20 years in the league,” he said, referencing peers like Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant, who continue to excel in their later careers.

He believes this knowledge will lead to even longer careers for future players. “I think you’re going to see it more and more — guys playing 15, 20 years in the league,” Love said. “It’s going to be amazing to see these long careers and what people are going to be able to produce.”

Love’s insights reflect changes in sports medicine and personal health management that promise to enhance the lives of athletes both during and after their careers.