Kevin Durant Prepares for a Milestone NBA Season
As Kevin Durant steps onto the court for his 17th NBA season, his enduring legacy in basketball continues to grow. The 35-year-old star has achieved numerous milestones throughout his career, including securing his fourth Olympic gold medal for Team USA, an accolade only a select few can boast.
Durant's journey began in 2007 when he was selected as the No. 2 overall pick in the NBA Draft by the Seattle SuperSonics, a team that would later become the Oklahoma City Thunder. From those early days to his current role with the Phoenix Suns, Durant's impact on the league has been profound.
Reflecting on his career, Durant openly discusses the inevitability of retirement. "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," he admits. Such contemplation is natural for any athlete who has dedicated their life to their sport, especially someone like Durant, who began playing basketball at the tender age of 8.
Durant currently stands on solid contractual ground, with two more fully guaranteed years left with the Suns. He won't become an unrestricted free agent until 2026, giving fans in Phoenix plenty of time to enjoy his talents. Durant has evidently formed a strong bond with the city and its supporters. "I love playing in Phoenix, I love our fans, I love the city. ... 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," he shares.
The bond between Durant and the franchise is something he hopes will be solidified with one of the highest honors the team can bestow. "One day, I would like to receive the franchise's Ring of Honor," Durant reveals. Such a recognition would cement his place in Suns history and pay tribute to the indelible mark he aims to leave on the team.
Durant's connection to the game remains intense, even as thoughts of life after basketball surface. "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," he reflects. The basketball world has been Durant's universe, and stepping away from it will undoubtedly be a significant adjustment.
For now, Durant's focus is on the present and the challenges that lie ahead with the Suns. The franchise and its fans have much to look forward to with Durant on their side, poised to bring his experience and skill to every game. Whether it’s his contributions on the court or the leadership he offers to younger teammates, Durant remains an invaluable asset.
Durant's 2007 draft class, which included notable players such as Al Horford, Mike Conley, and Jeff Green, underscores the level of talent and competition he has faced throughout his career. Yet, Durant’s unique combination of skill, work ethic, and passion has always set him apart. His achievements are a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence, from Olympic gold medals to potential franchise honors.
As he continues his illustrious career, Durant remains a figure to watch, both for his on-court performances and his candor about the future. "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," he says. This blend of commitment and realism showcases a player who is deeply introspective about his journey.
Kevin Durant’s legacy is already written in the annals of basketball history. With several more chapters yet to unfold, fans and fellow athletes alike will be watching closely as he navigates the latter stages of an extraordinary career.