Kevin Durant, often referred to as “KD” or the “Slim Reaper,” is widely considered one of the most dominant scorers in NBA history. Known for his incredible versatility, length, and efficiency, Durant has left an indelible mark on the league. Whether it’s his ability to shoot over defenders, handle the ball like a guard despite his height, or step up in clutch moments, Durant has consistently proven himself as one of the greatest players of his generation. This profile explores Durant’s early life, his journey through multiple teams, his notable achievements, and his lasting impact on the sport of basketball.
Early Life and Introduction to Basketball
Kevin Wayne Durant was born on September 29, 1988, in Washington, D.C., and raised in nearby Prince George’s County, Maryland. Raised primarily by his mother, Wanda Durant, after his parents divorced, Durant’s love for basketball began at a young age. His height and talent were apparent early on, and he often played against older competition, which helped hone his skills.
Durant played high school basketball at National Christian Academy and later at Montrose Christian School, where his talents became undeniable. He quickly gained a reputation as one of the best young players in the country, ranking as one of the top high school recruits in the class of 2006. His exceptional height, combined with guard-like skills, made him a match-up nightmare for defenders at any level.
College Stardom at the University of Texas
Durant chose to play college basketball at the University of Texas, where he spent a single, electrifying season before declaring for the NBA Draft. As a freshman, Durant averaged an astounding 25.8 points and 11.1 rebounds per game, showcasing his ability to score from anywhere on the court. His standout performances earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Naismith College Player of the Year award, making him the first freshman in history to win it.
Although Texas didn’t go deep in the NCAA tournament, Durant’s individual dominance was enough to cement his status as a top NBA prospect. It became clear that Durant was destined to be a future NBA star, with scouts and analysts touting him as a unique blend of size, skill, and scoring ability that the league had rarely seen before.
NBA Draft and Rookie Years with the Seattle SuperSonics
In the 2007 NBA Draft, Kevin Durant was selected second overall by the Seattle SuperSonics, behind Greg Oden, who went first to the Portland Trail Blazers. From the moment he entered the league, Durant made an immediate impact, winning NBA Rookie of the Year honors in 2008 after averaging 20.3 points per game.
- Position: Small Forward / Power Forward
- Teams: Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors, Brooklyn Nets
- Achievements: 2× NBA Champion, 2× NBA Finals MVP, 13× NBA All-Star
- Strengths: Scoring versatility, length, shooting accuracy
- Background: Drafted second overall by Seattle SuperSonics in 2007
Though the SuperSonics struggled as a team, Durant’s individual brilliance was clear, and he quickly became the face of the franchise. However, Durant’s time in Seattle was short-lived as the team relocated to Oklahoma City the following year, rebranding as the Oklahoma City Thunder. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter in Durant’s career, one that would see him grow into one of the most dominant forces in the NBA.
Oklahoma City Thunder and the Rise to Stardom
Once the team moved to Oklahoma City, Durant’s development accelerated. Paired with young stars Russell Westbrook and James Harden, Durant became the centerpiece of a rising Thunder team with championship aspirations. By his third season in the league, Durant had already secured his first scoring title, leading the NBA in points per game during the 2009-10 season.
Under the guidance of head coach Scott Brooks, Durant led the Thunder to multiple playoff appearances, with the pinnacle being their run to the NBA Finals in 2012. Despite falling to LeBron James and the Miami Heat in five games, Durant’s performance in the Finals only further solidified his reputation as one of the best scorers in the game. His ability to score from all three levels—whether driving to the basket, pulling up from mid-range, or shooting from deep—made him virtually unstoppable.
In Oklahoma City, Durant captured four scoring titles, becoming the NBA’s premier offensive weapon. His scoring prowess was complemented by his improving defense and leadership, making him a perennial MVP candidate. Durant’s career with the Thunder, however, came with some disappointments, as the team failed to win a championship during his tenure, despite consistently being one of the top teams in the league.
The MVP Season and Thunder Legacy
Durant’s most memorable individual achievement with the Thunder came during the 2013-14 season when he won his first NBA MVP award. That year, Durant averaged a career-high 32.0 points per game, leading the Thunder to the second seed in the Western Conference despite the absence of Westbrook for much of the season due to injury.
Durant’s emotional MVP speech, in which he famously called his mother the “real MVP” for her sacrifices and support, resonated with fans and further endeared him to the basketball community. The 2013-14 season solidified Durant’s standing as one of the best players in the world, and while an NBA championship still eluded him, his legacy in Oklahoma City was secure.
However, following multiple playoff disappointments, including a devastating loss in the 2016 Western Conference Finals where the Thunder blew a 3-1 series lead to the Golden State Warriors, Durant faced a difficult decision about his future.
Controversial Move to the Golden State Warriors
In the summer of 2016, Durant made a career-defining choice: he signed with the Golden State Warriors as a free agent. This move shocked the basketball world and was met with both criticism and admiration. Joining a team that had just won an NBA-record 73 games the previous season and was fresh off a Finals appearance was seen by many as Durant “taking the easy way out” to win a championship.
Durant’s decision to join forces with Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, however, was driven by his desire to win championships and maximize his potential. Despite the backlash, Durant’s arrival in Golden State transformed an already elite team into an unstoppable juggernaut. The Warriors went on to win back-to-back NBA Championships in 2017 and 2018, with Durant capturing Finals MVP honors both times.
In both Finals series against LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers, Durant was the difference-maker, delivering iconic performances, including a dagger three-pointer in Game 3 of the 2017 Finals that all but sealed the Warriors’ victory. Durant’s ability to thrive in high-pressure situations silenced many of his critics, as he proved he could be the best player on the court in the most important moments.
Injuries and Departure from the Warriors
Despite winning two championships in three seasons with Golden State, Durant’s tenure with the Warriors was not without its challenges. In the 2019 NBA Finals, Durant suffered a torn Achilles tendon in Game 5 against the Toronto Raptors, an injury that would have long-term repercussions on his career.
The Warriors would go on to lose the Finals, and Durant’s injury cast a shadow over his impending free agency. With speculation about his future swirling, Durant opted to leave Golden State and signed with the Brooklyn Nets in the summer of 2019, teaming up with another superstar, Kyrie Irving.
Durant’s Achilles injury forced him to miss the entire 2019-20 NBA season, raising questions about whether he could return to his previous form. However, Durant’s work ethic and determination saw him make a full recovery, and he returned to the court with the Brooklyn Nets in the 2020-21 season, reminding everyone why he is considered one of the greatest scorers in the history of the game.
Brooklyn Nets: A New Chapter
Durant’s move to the Brooklyn Nets signaled the start of a new chapter in his illustrious career. Playing alongside Kyrie Irving and later James Harden, Durant helped form one of the most talented trios in the league. Despite dealing with various injuries and absences during the regular season, Durant’s performances in the 2021 playoffs were nothing short of legendary.
His 49-point, 17-rebound, 10-assist performance in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Milwaukee Bucks is widely regarded as one of the greatest playoff games in NBA history. Though the Nets ultimately fell to the Bucks in a seven-game series, Durant’s heroics reaffirmed his status as one of the top players in the league.
As Durant continues to chase championships in Brooklyn, his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history is already secure. Whether or not he adds more titles to his resume, Durant’s impact on the game is undeniable.
Strengths: Scoring, Versatility, and Leadership
Scoring Ability: Kevin Durant’s scoring ability is his most defining trait. Standing at 6’10” with a wingspan over 7 feet, Durant can shoot over virtually any defender. His ability to score from anywhere on the floor—whether it’s from three-point range, mid-range, or attacking the rim—makes him one of the most dangerous offensive players in NBA history.
Versatility: Durant’s skill set allows him to play multiple positions on the court. His combination of size, ball-handling, and shooting allows him to excel as both a perimeter and post player, and his improved defense over the years has made him a complete player.
Leadership: While Durant has not always been viewed as a vocal leader, his ability to lead by example is undeniable. His relentless work ethic and desire to win have made him a respected figure in locker rooms throughout his career.
Conclusion
Kevin Durant’s journey from a scrawny high school player in Maryland to one of the most dominant forces in NBA history is nothing short of remarkable. With multiple championships, MVP awards, and scoring titles, Durant’s place among the greatest players of all time is secure. His ability to transcend traditional positions and redefine what it means to be an elite scorer has forever changed the game of basketball. As Durant continues to build on his legacy with the Brooklyn Nets, one thing is certain: he will always be remembered as one of the most gifted players to ever step on the hardwood.
FAQs
How many championships has Kevin Durant won?
Kevin Durant has won two NBA championships, both with the Golden State Warriors, in 2017 and 2018.
What teams has Kevin Durant played for?
Kevin Durant has played for the Seattle SuperSonics (now Oklahoma City Thunder), Golden State Warriors, and Brooklyn Nets during his NBA career.
What makes Kevin Durant such an effective scorer?
Durant’s combination of size, shooting ability, and ball-handling skills makes him nearly impossible to defend. He can score from any spot on the floor, whether it’s beyond the arc, in the mid-range, or at the rim.
Has Kevin Durant won any MVP awards?
Yes, Durant won the NBA MVP award in 2014 during his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
What injury did Kevin Durant suffer in the 2019 Finals?
Kevin Durant suffered a torn Achilles tendon during Game 5 of the 2019 NBA Finals, an injury that forced him to miss the entire 2019-20 NBA season.
Is Kevin Durant considered one of the best players in NBA history?
Yes, Durant is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history, thanks to his scoring ability, versatility, and success in both regular seasons and playoffs.
