Some nights it’s started with a head nod. Others by a single word. Whatever the indication that it’s time, Paul George and Raymond Felton rise from their lockers in unison before every game.

“Ladies, ladies, gentlemen,” George says as they pass the Thunder public relations staff members and remaining reporters on their way out. Felton smiles.

They walk side by side down a brightly lit hallway and turn. They can glimpse the court, but they still have a few more minutes for private conversation. A fan catches sight of George, and his name ripples throughout the crowd. Arms reach from all sides. Then they step on the court and finally split off to warm up.

Felton, in his 14th season in the NBA, of course influences the younger players on the Thunder, but he also has a positive impact on the stars: George and Russell Westbrook.