Kevin Durant reflected on his perspective toward recognition and legacy during the Oklahoma City Thunder’s banner-raising ceremony on Tuesday. The 37-year-old forward told Marc J. Spears of Andscape that being honored or revered by fans is no longer a priority.
“I used to care about being honored and revered by people,” Durant said. “That don’t matter. People are fickle. The perception of you goes up and down depending on what people feel. I’m not expecting anybody to do anything for me, regardless. I just got to put in work and see what happens.”
Durant also spoke positively about his time with the Phoenix Suns, noting he holds no ill will toward the franchise. “I was still healthy enough to work on my game and put my best foot forward,” he said. “I loved playing in Phoenix, a city I thought I was going to retire in. I love playing in Houston. There is way more positive stuff than negative stuff since I’ve been in the league.”
The forward made his Houston Rockets debut on October 21 against the Thunder in a thrilling double-overtime loss. Durant scored 23 points, though a late rebound timeout in the first overtime drew boos from the Oklahoma City crowd, and he fouled out with 2.3 seconds left before Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hit game-winning free throws.
Durant, a 12-time All-Star and one of the league’s all-time scorers with 29.3 career points per game in playoffs, emphasized that personal recognition does not motivate him anymore. His focus remains on preparation and performance, particularly after signing a two-year, $90 million extension with the Rockets in October.
Over his 18-year career, Durant has played for the Seattle Supersonics, Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors, Brooklyn Nets, Phoenix Suns, and now Houston Rockets, capturing multiple scoring titles, MVP honors, and an NBA championship. Despite the accolades, Durant maintains that consistent work and team impact are more meaningful than individual praise.
