Kevin Durant, at 35 years old, is gearing up for what will be his 17th NBA season—an impressive feat that speaks volumes about his longevity and dedication to the game. Initially drafted as the No. 2 overall pick by the Seattle SuperSonics in the 2007 NBA Draft, Durant's career has seen several notable chapters. The SuperSonics, of course, eventually became the Oklahoma City Thunder, marking the beginning of a storied NBA journey for Durant that has included stints with the Golden State Warriors and the Brooklyn Nets before landing with the Phoenix Suns.
Eye on the Future
As he inches closer to two decades in the league, Durant openly acknowledges the inevitability of retirement but remains steadfast in his commitment to the game. "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 recently shared, candidly expressing the inevitable thoughts that cross the mind of any professional athlete at his stage of career.
Despite these contemplations, his immediate future is well mapped out. Durant will not become an unrestricted free agent until 2026, and he has two more fully guaranteed years on his contract with the Suns. This indicates a firm resolve to keep competing at the highest level, even as thoughts of a life beyond basketball linger in his mind. "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," he admits—highlighting the significant lifestyle change that will come once he steps away from the court after what could be a 30-year journey in the sport.
Love for Phoenix
Durant's passion for the game is mirrored by his affection for his current team and its fan base. "I love playing in Phoenix, I love our fans, I love the city," Durant enthusiastically stated. His integration into the Suns' framework appears seamless, with a profound respect for the team's history and an acknowledgment of the fans’ unwavering support. "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," he adds.
His deep connection to the franchise has sparked a new aspiration—to earn a place in the Suns' Ring of Honor. "One day, I would like to receive the franchise's Ring of Honor," Durant revealed, a clear indication of his desire to leave a lasting mark in Phoenix, much like he has in other stops throughout his career.
A Storied Career
Durant's career, marked by individual accolades and team successes, began long before he entered the NBA. Starting to play basketball at just 8 years old, his journey to professional stardom has been nothing short of extraordinary. With four Olympic gold medals representing Team USA, Durant has demonstrated his prowess on an international stage, further cementing his legacy in the annals of basketball history.
Reflecting on his draft class, which included players like Al Horford, Mike Conley, and Jeff Green, Durant has lived up to and even exceeded the expectations placed upon him as the No. 2 pick. His accolades, including multiple scoring titles and NBA Championships, stand as a testament to his impact on the game.
The Road Ahead
As Durant prepares to embark on another rigorous NBA season, the basketball world watches with rapt attention. His presence on the court continues to be a significant draw for fans and a beacon of hope for the Suns. While retirement thoughts may occasionally creep in, Durant remains resolute in his mission, committed to contributing to Phoenix’s pursuit of glory.
Whether it's earning a spot in the Suns’ Ring of Honor or simply continuing to be a transformative figure in the league, Kevin Durant's journey is far from over. "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 said, leaving open the possibility of an enduring relationship with basketball, in some capacity, long after he hangs up his sneakers.
For now, fans and teammates alike can look forward to witnessing another season of brilliance from one of the game's greats. Durant’s legacy is still being written, and as he steps onto the court for his 17th season, the story of his career promises new chapters filled with the same passion, skill, and dedication that have defined him since he first picked up a basketball at the age of 8.