Dennis Schroder did not hold back when responding to Kevin Durant’s online jab after Team USA’s victory in the Paris Olympics.
Schroder, who plays for the Brooklyn Nets and the German national team, criticized Durant, calling him “weak” for his post-win trolling.
The tension began when Schroder made a comment during the Olympics, stating that the NBA is focused on entertainment, while European basketball prioritizes pure basketball IQ.
“European basketball is no entertainment, it’s straight IQ basketball. Straight coaching,” the point guard said.
After Team USA claimed the gold medal in Paris, Durant tweeted “Entertainment & IQ,” clearly referencing Schroder’s earlier remarks.
Schroder, during a Twitch stream, addressed Durant’s tweet directly, expressing his disappointment and frustration.
He called out Durant, saying that the tweet reflected weakness in Durant’s character.
Schroder emphasized that not everyone is strong or in a good place mentally, implying that Durant’s comment was a sign of insecurity.
“[Team USA] won, and Kevin Durant tweets, ‘High IQ and entertainment.’ … To say that tells me how weak he is as a person. It is what it is. Not everybody is strong, not everybody is in a good place,” he said.
Schroder’s comments initially highlighted the contrasting styles of play, with the NBA being seen as more focused on showmanship and entertainment.
Durant’s tweet, in response, was seen by many as a way to assert the superiority of American basketball after their Olympic triumph.
Schroder, however, took the comment personally, viewing it as an unnecessary and shallow dig.
Schroder has always been vocal about his belief in the strength and importance of European basketball, and Durant’s comment appeared to challenge that notion.
The German point guard’s reaction also reflects a growing sentiment among European players who feel that their style of play is sometimes undervalued by NBA stars.
Durant, on the other hand, seemed to use the opportunity to highlight the success and adaptability of Team USA.
As the NBA season approaches, it remains to be seen if the tension between Schroder and Durant will carry over onto the court.
