SAN FRANCISCO — The Warriors are headed into the new season with a strange crown: they own the oldest starting lineup in the league. The Clippers hold the oldest roster overall, but when it comes to the starting five, Golden State has everyone beat. Gen Z calls it the “unc” title—slang for a guy reaching uncle status, someone seen as old or out of touch.
Warriors Snatch ‘Unc’ Title From Clippers With NBA’s Oldest Lineup
The Warriors have leaned into that title this offseason. Al Horford signed on, Gary Payton II re-upped, and De’Anthony Melton joined the fold. Rumors have Seth Curry in the mix, while Jonathan Kuminga is expected to return once his deal is finalized. This group looks older than ever.
Clippers vs. Warriors: Who’s the Real “Unc”?
The Clippers’ guaranteed roster averages 31.4 years old, compared with Golden State’s 29.1. By roster, the Clippers win the “unc” battle. But the Warriors oldest starting lineup gives them the edge where it matters most—the five on the floor.
Golden State projects a starting group of Stephen Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, and Horford. That averages 33.8 years. If Steve Kerr opts for Buddy Hield’s shooting, the number jumps to 35.8. Even if Moses Moody slides in for his two-way capability, the average still hovers above 34.
The Clippers will roll out James Harden, Bradley Beal, Kawhi Leonard, John Collins, and Ivica Zubac. That averages 31.6—still younger than the Warriors.
The Age Problem in a Young League
Experience matters. Veterans know how to win high-stakes games, but the NBA is still a young man’s league. Last season proved it. The four conference finalists—Oklahoma City, Minnesota, Indiana, and New York—averaged just 26.5 years.
Older rosters face obvious issues. They are less athletic, slower on closeouts, and more vulnerable to injury. The Warriors owning oldest starting lineup magnifies these risks. With Curry at 37, Butler at 36, Green at 35, and Horford at 39, the margin for error is razor thin.
Can the Warriors Overcome the Odds?
Golden State still has championship DNA. But Father Time is undefeated, and the odds aren’t in their favor. The team’s lack of size and elite rebounding remains another flaw. If the Warriors want to stay in the hunt, they’ll need careful minute management and a little luck.
The Clippers may carry the oldest roster, but the Warriors starting lineup has secured the “unc” belt. Whether that title comes with another ring—or just an early playoff exit—remains to be seen.
Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
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