As Kevin Durant gears up for his 17th NBA season, his illustrious career continues to captivate basketball fans around the globe. At 35 years old, Durant remains a significant force in the league, having recently secured his fourth Olympic gold medal with Team USA. His resume is brimming with achievements, and his journey from being the No. 2 overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Seattle SuperSonics to his current tenure with the Phoenix Suns is nothing short of extraordinary.
The Seattle SuperSonics, the team that first recognized Durant's potential, would later become the Oklahoma City Thunder, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the NBA and in Durant’s career. Yet, Durant's impact has spanned various franchises, each stepping stone adding to his legacy. His next pivotal moment is on the horizon, as Durant will not become an unrestricted free agent until 2026, giving him two more fully guaranteed years with the Suns to solidify his place in Phoenix history.
Reflecting on a Stalwart Career
Since starting to play basketball at just 8 years old, Durant has seen the game evolve and grow younger around him. This passage of time often prompts the basketball veteran to ponder his career's inevitable conclusion. "As I get older in the league and the league is getting younger, I tend to think about retirement more. It creeps in my mind for sure," Durant admits.
His thoughts don't just rest on retirement but also on what comes after. "I honestly don't know what I'll do [when I stop playing]. I have a lot of different interests. I definitely want to stay around the game... That's gonna be a huge, huge transition. I've been at this since I was 8. It's gonna be hopefully 30 years of me doing this where every day was centered around the game of basketball. It hasn't been no other lifestyle but this."
Passion for Phoenix
Durant's passion for the game is palpable, as is his dedication to the Phoenix Suns. "I love playing in Phoenix, I love our fans, I love the city," he expresses. His commitment extends beyond the court, embracing the culture and mission of the franchise. "I realized what our mission is by being in the Valley and I realized how much these people care about their team. I started to understand the history of the Phoenix Suns and I am happy to be a part of it."
Durant's deep connection to the Suns has also inspired personal aspirations. "One day, I would like to receive the franchise's Ring of Honor," he reveals, signifying his desire to be remembered as a pivotal figure in the team's history. As he continues to elevate his game, Durant leaves no doubt about his immediate dedication. "Right now I would say yes [about staying in the game], but that's just a figure of speech, I can't know what's going to happen."
The Weight of Legacy
Durant's draft class is a testament to the competitive era he emerged from, including notable players like Al Horford, Mike Conley, and Jeff Green. The landscape of the NBA in 2007 was charged with promising talent, and Durant has remained at the forefront, continuously demonstrating his elite skills and leadership.
As he approaches another season, his focus remains sharp, and his ambitions crystal clear. Durant's drive isn't just about personal accolades but also contributing to the success of his team. His journey reflects resilience and an unwavering love for the sport, elements that have defined his career and endeared him to fans worldwide.
With each game, Kevin Durant adds another layer to his legacy, a narrative rich with triumphs, transitions, and the pursuit of greatness. The upcoming seasons with the Phoenix Suns promise to be more than mere chapters in an already storied career; they are opportunities for Durant to cement his place among the legends of the game.