Kevin Durant Prepares for Milestone Season Amid Reflections on Career and Future Aspirations
Kevin Durant is gearing up for his 17th NBA season, an impressive milestone that few players reach. At 35 years old, Durant remains a dominant force on the court, a testament to his skill and dedication. Drafted as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Seattle SuperSonics, Durant’s illustrious career has spanned multiple teams and achievements, including four Olympic gold medals with Team USA.
As Durant prepares to lace up his sneakers for another season with the Phoenix Suns, he can’t help but reflect on his journey and the inevitable conclusion of his playing days. "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 admitted. His candor reveals a player who is not only focused on immediate goals but also on the legacy he will leave behind.
Durant's Deep Connection with Basketball
Durant's love affair with basketball began at the tender age of 8, a passion that has driven him for nearly three decades. "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,” Durant reflected.
Despite the inevitable shift that retirement will bring, Durant remains committed to the game and to his current team. The Seattle SuperSonics, the franchise that initially selected Durant, eventually became the Oklahoma City Thunder. Durant’s professional journey has taken him from Oklahoma City to Golden State, Brooklyn, and now Phoenix, where he has two more fully guaranteed years left on his contract with the Suns.
Embracing Phoenix and Its Fans
Durant has quickly ingrained himself within the Phoenix community, expressing his affection for the city and its passionate fan base. "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 shared. His dedication is palpable, and he has even set his sights on a future honor. "One day, I would like to receive the franchise’s Ring of Honor." This goal signifies his desire to leave a lasting impact on the Suns organization, both on and off the court.
Durant’s draft class, which included other standout players such as Al Horford, Mike Conley, and Jeff Green, has produced numerous NBA stars. Despite the years that have elapsed and the accolades he has accumulated, Durant remains focused on contributing to his team’s success and enjoying every moment on the court.
The Uncertain Path Ahead
As he looks toward the sunset of his career, Durant acknowledges the uncertainty that lies ahead. "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 conceded. This openness to the unknown showcases his realistic approach to his future, balancing a deep love for basketball with the recognition that his career will eventually evolve.
Durant will remain under contract with the Suns until 2026, ensuring that fans can continue to witness his extraordinary talent for at least a few more seasons. Whether it’s his scoring prowess, defensive capabilities, or leadership on and off the court, Kevin Durant’s impact on the game is undeniable.
As the new NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Durant as he continues to defy Father Time and solidify his legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats. Driven by a love for the sport that began in childhood and sustained by a relentless pursuit of excellence, Kevin Durant’s journey is far from over, even as he contemplates the chapters that lie ahead.