Kevin Durant Prepares for 17th NBA Season with Phoenix Suns, Eyes Franchise's Ring of Honor
Kevin Durant, one of the most illustrious figures in modern basketball, is gearing up for his 17th NBA season. As he steps onto the court once again, Durant embraces not only the familiarity of the game but also its ever-evolving nature. At 35, Durant remains a powerhouse, seamlessly blending his extensive experience with an undying enthusiasm for basketball.
Having recently secured his fourth Olympic gold medal with Team USA, Durant's career is a testament to his enduring talent and resilience. Looking back, his journey from being the No. 2 overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Seattle SuperSonics—a team that would eventually become the Oklahoma City Thunder—to his current stature in the Phoenix Suns is nothing short of remarkable.
A Storied Career Continues
Durant's career, which began at the tender age of 8, has seen numerous milestones. The 2007 draft class, which included notable players like Al Horford, Mike Conley, and Jeff Green, marked the beginning of what would become a legacy of excellence. As Durant dons the Suns' jersey, the future looks promising not only for him but also for the team.
Durant, who won't become an unrestricted free agent until 2026, has two more fully guaranteed years left on his contract with the Phoenix Suns. Reflecting on his time with the Suns, Durant expressed a deep appreciation for the organization and its supporters. "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.
The Future and Thoughts on Retirement
As Durant prepares for another season, the thought of retirement does occasionally cross his mind. "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," he admitted. His life, which has revolved around basketball since he was 8 years old, may eventually take a different direction. "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.
Although the future remains uncertain, Durant's immediate focus is clear. He aims to continue contributing to the Suns' success and possibly etching his name further into the franchise's rich history. "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 said, hinting at his desire to remain connected with basketball in some capacity.
A Legacy in the Making
Durant's influence extends beyond his statistics and accolades. His journey from a young hopeful to a seasoned veteran offers inspiration to many aspiring athletes. As he inches closer to potential retirement, Durant's legacy continues to grow. Whether on the courts of Phoenix or elsewhere, his mark on the game of basketball is indelible.
As fans anticipate what Kevin Durant's 17th season will bring, there is a sense of gratitude for witnessing one of the game's greats in action. His contributions have not only shaped the teams he has played for but also enriched the sport itself. While thoughts of retirement hover on the horizon, Durant’s present is profoundly impactful, promising an exciting season ahead for both him and the Phoenix Suns.