As Kevin Durant gears up for his 17th NBA season, the Phoenix Suns' standout has much more than just basketball on his mind. At 35, Durant is reflecting on both his illustrious career and his eventual retirement, even as he continues to solidify his legacy on the court.
A Storied Career
Durant's journey in the NBA began in 2007 when he was selected as the No. 2 overall pick by the Seattle SuperSonics. After the franchise's relocation and transformation into the Oklahoma City Thunder, Durant quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Over the years, his career has been decorated with numerous accolades, including four Olympic gold medals with Team USA.
“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 candidly shared. It's a poignant admission from a player who has been a central figure in the NBA for nearly two decades.
Commitment to the Suns
Durant's current focus remains firmly on the Phoenix Suns, where he has two fully guaranteed years left on his contract. The veteran forward has embraced his role and the community in Phoenix, openly expressing his admiration 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. One day, I would like to receive the franchise's Ring of Honor," Durant said, highlighting his desire to etch his name into the franchise's storied history.
Reflecting on the Past and Future
Durant’s basketball journey started at a tender age. He picked up a basketball for the first time when he was just eight years old, setting the stage for what would become a legendary career. His 2007 draft class, which included notable players like Al Horford, Mike Conley, and Jeff Green, has left an indelible mark on the league, with Durant standing as one of its most prominent figures.
His thoughts on retirement encapsulate the mix of uncertainty and curiosity about what lies ahead for the star forward. "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," Durant reflected.
Despite the eventual prospect of retirement, Durant hasn't made any definitive 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," he acknowledged. This reflects the grounded yet ambitious mindset that has driven him throughout his career.
The Road Ahead
Durant remains under contract with the Suns until 2026, and he continues to be a pivotal part of their aspirations for success. As he prepares for another season, it's clear that his dedication to the sport remains as strong as ever.
Even as he contemplates life after basketball, Durant’s contributions to the game and his influence on future generations of players are assured. His career, characterized by tenacity, skill, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, sets a high bar for those who follow in his footsteps.
For now, fans and teammates alike can look forward to seeing Durant continue to grace the court, bringing his exceptional talent and invaluable experience to the Phoenix Suns. As he aims to add more chapters to his already remarkable legacy, Durant's story in the NBA is far from over, adding to the anticipation and excitement for every game he plays.