Kevin Durant’s illustrious NBA journey is set to continue, as the superstar forward embarks on his 17th season. At 35 years old, Durant remains a formidable presence on the court, playing for the Phoenix Suns, a team he openly admires and respects. With two fully guaranteed years left on his contract, Durant's relationship with Phoenix is one of mutual aspiration and appreciation.
"I love playing in Phoenix, I love our fans, I love the city," Durant expressed with genuine enthusiasm. "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. One day, I would like to receive the franchise's Ring of Honor."
Early Beginnings and Rise to Stardom
Durant's basketball journey began when he was just 8 years old, showcasing a lifelong dedication to the sport. His talent was quickly recognized, leading to his selection as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Seattle SuperSonics. This franchise would later become the Oklahoma City Thunder, marking the start of Durant's professional career.
Drafted alongside notable players such as Al Horford, Mike Conley, and Jeff Green, Durant's entry into the NBA was a harbinger of the remarkable career that lay ahead. Over the years, Durant has garnered numerous accolades, including an impressive four Olympic gold medals representing Team USA, underlining his status as one of the game's greats.
Durant's Legacy and Future
As Durant prepares to add another chapter to his storied career, his thoughts naturally turn to the future. The rigors and demands of professional basketball have inevitably led him to contemplate his eventual 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," Durant acknowledged.
Despite these reflections, Durant remains keen on staying connected to the sport he loves. "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 candidly shared.
Aiming for More with the Suns
Durant's focus remains firmly on his contributions to the Phoenix Suns. With the team's strong fan base and rich history, he finds himself invigorated by the journey ahead. Durant, who will not become an unrestricted free agent until 2026, sees great potential and has high aspirations for his time with the Suns. His dedication is a testament to his enduring passion for basketball and his commitment to excellence.
"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," Durant mentioned, reflecting on his future in the sport.
As he continues to defy age and expectations, Kevin Durant’s impact on the NBA remains substantial. Phoenix fans will undoubtedly cherish every moment he spends in the Valley, hoping he brings the same fire, skill, and leadership that has defined his career. Durant's legacy is one of continuous evolution, and as he steps onto the court for his 17th season, the basketball world watches with bated breath, eager to witness what comes next from one of the sport’s true icons.