Kevin Durant, a name synonymous with excellence in basketball, is on the cusp of his 17th NBA season. As he dons the jersey of the Phoenix Suns, the 35-year-old forward's illustrious career extends beyond the court. With four Olympic gold medals under his belt and a legacy that began when he was selected as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Seattle SuperSonics, Durant's journey is a blend of dedication, passion, and undeniable talent.
A Path Carved in History
Durant's early entry into the basketball world saw him being drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics, a team that later transformed into the Oklahoma City Thunder. His journey from an 8-year-old boy picking up a basketball to a seasoned NBA superstar is nothing short of inspiring. "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," Durant reflects.
As he steps into another season, the forward is not just playing to win but also to etch his name into the annals of Phoenix Suns history. "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." Durant's objective is clear: "One day, I would like to receive the franchise's Ring of Honor."
Future Contemplations and Present Realities
While Durant is deeply embedded in the present, the future looms large. "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. However, his plans post-retirement remain fluid. "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."
At 35, Durant's perspective is evolving. While his contract with the Suns is secured for the next two years and he won't become an unrestricted free agent until 2026, the thought of hanging up his sneakers is starting to appear on the horizon. Yet, Durant isn't rushing his decisions. "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."
A Legacy in the Making
Durant’s draft class of 2007, which included notable players like Al Horford, Mike Conley, and Jeff Green, set a high bar for NBA talent. His professional journey reflects not just his own development but also the changes within the league. As one of the older statesmen now, Durant offers a unique blend of experience and enduring skill.
In his tenure with various teams, Durant's consistent performance has been a testament to his work ethic and love for the game. His tenure with the Phoenix Suns is just the latest chapter in a storied career that has seen him become one of the most respected and accomplished players in the league.
As Durant embarks on his 17th season, his reflections on the game and his future carry the weight of experience and the hope of continuing his influence within the sport he loves. With his eyes set on further accolades and a potential future within the sport post-retirement, Kevin Durant remains a pivotal figure in the NBA landscape, continuing to inspire fans and aspiring athletes alike.