Kevin Durant Reflects on Thunder’s Rise While Warning of Their Formidable Presence in the West

Following a tough loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, Kevin Durant took a moment to reminisce about his time with the franchise and express admiration for their current roster’s passion and talent. In an interview with Duane Rankin, Durant likened the Thunder’s current dynamic to that of his earlier years with the team, praising their focus on basketball and cohesive team culture under a supportive coach.

“They’ve got great talent here. Guys that love to play ball, said Durant via Duane Rankin. “They’re not too involved with the extra stuff outside of the game. I think that’s what we had as a group when we were here. They got a coach that understands them and understands the game.”

Durant’s own journey has seen its ups and downs, particularly with his current team, the Phoenix Suns, struggling amidst injuries and inconsistent performances. However, his fond memories of the Thunder era highlight a period of sustained success and growth for both himself and the franchise.

During his tenure with the Thunder, Durant played a pivotal role in establishing the team as a Western Conference powerhouse, consistently making deep playoff runs and competing at the highest level. Despite his eventual departure, Durant’s respect for the Thunder organization remains evident, as he acknowledges the progress and potential of their current squad.

Indeed, the Thunder’s rise this season has not gone unnoticed across the league. With a record of 51-22 and a strong second-place position in the West, they pose a significant threat to any opponent in a playoff series. Led by standout guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and bolstered by the addition of Chet Holmgren, the Thunder boast a potent offense and formidable depth, supported by astute coaching.

The Thunder’s resurgence underlines their status as a team to be feared, with Durant himself recognizing their potential to disrupt the playoff picture in the West. As they continue to build towards further success, Durant’s legacy remains intertwined with the Thunder’s journey, serving as a reminder of where it all began for the NBA superstar.