Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler III dismissed suggestions that age has impacted his athleticism. He has a light exchange with a reporter, and the six-time all-star emphasized that he is still as explosive as ever.
Jimmy Butler Shuts Down Declining Athleticism Questions
A video posted by 95.7 The Game on X showed Butler responding to a comment that players often become less athletic as they get older.
“I’m not old, first of all,” Butler said.
The reporter followed up by noting that Butler is older now than when he entered the league. Butler replied, “Yeah, no sh*t. You’re older than you were yesterday.”
When asked what allows him to stay athletic late into his career, Butler kept his answer simple.
“Just take care of your body,” he said. “Keep doing what you have been doing to get to this point.”
He later added that he still feels capable physically, jokingly saying he can “jump a little bit.”
Butler is 36 years old and in his 15th NBA season. He was selected 30th overall in the 2011 NBA Draft and has played for five franchises during his career. He joined the Warriors in a significant trade with the Miami Heat, finalized around February 5, 2025.
Despite his age, Butler has remained productive this season. He is averaging 20.1 points per game while playing 31.4 minutes per night. He is shooting 51.9% from the field and remains effective on both ends of the floor.
Butler leads the Warriors in steals with 1.4 per game. He is also averaging 5.6 rebounds per contest, showing that his defensive impact has remained steady. His free-throw shooting has been a strength, as he is converting 86.2 percent of his attempts.
Butler Shines As Warriors Hold Firm in Playoff Race
While Butler’s playing style has adjusted over time, his role remains significant. He has shifted toward more off-ball movement, spacing, and drawing fouls rather than relying purely on explosiveness. The approach has helped him stay efficient and effective in a high-minute role.
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His performance against the New York Knicks on January 15 highlighted that impact. Butler scored 32 points in 32 minutes during the Warriors’ 126-113 win. He also recorded eight rebounds, four assists, and two steals while shooting 14-of-22 from the field.
The Warriors are currently eighth in the Western Conference with a 23-19 record. Butler has been a stabilizing presence as the team works through the middle portion of the season and pushes for playoff positioning.
Often referred to as “Playoff Jimmy” for his postseason performances, Butler continues to show that age has not significantly slowed him during the regular season.
The Warriors are scheduled to face the Charlotte Hornets on January 17. Butler is expected to remain in the starting lineup as Golden State looks to build momentum heading deeper into the season.
