In this new Nike clip, unveiled right as training camps open around the Association, Kevin Durant reveals a bit more of himself than usual. Most fans know about his upbringing in Prince George’s county, Maryland, if only because so many of his signature sneaks have come with a narrative whose focal point was KD’s journey to where he is today: easily one of the top three players in the NBA, when healthy.
It’s that last caveat he’s hungry to rectify. He only appeared in 27 games last season, but the odyssey back to the Finals — where OKC hasn’t been since 2012 — began when training camp opened on Monday. Hear what Durant thinks about his legacy, his easy style and why the Hall of Fame is in his future.
But first, what the hell could score KD? Certainly no presence on the court.
“My biggest fear is that I might be taking it all for granted. Being able to do something I love every single day is a blessing. We play so many games, we have so many practices — it flies by. By the time it’s all said and done, I worry that I might not have really enjoyed every single day as a pro.”
He does seem more convivial this year. The game is no longer a burden. Perhaps, after he had it taken away from him last season, he cherishes his health and his status on a contending team even more now. But how does he stay there?
“I just want to be consistent with everything I do. I want to consistently be the best player on the floor every night. You can do it once or twice throughout a season, but I want to do it every single night. So I want to continue to keep working at it, and I just want to be the best player I can be. My work ethic was instilled in me as a kid, so I never forget it.”
But what about KD’s style? He’s laid back, and that’s how he feels about his threads, too. “I just want to enjoy what I have on and feel good in it, and I’ve been doing that lately,” he says.
“If I don’t like it, I won’t wear it — no matter what design it is or who made it. I’m real simple with it. If it has a nice fit, I’ll wear it.”
So, at the end of it all, what does KD expect to be looking back on as his career winds down?
“I want to be a Hall of Famer, have multiple championships and, most of all, I just want to leave my mark on the city. I want to inspire the youth and be remembered as one of those guys who impacted lives, on and off the court.”
Sounds about right.
(Nike)
