NBA1 hr ago
Durant Looks Back on Thunder Years With Gratitude
The veteran forward recalls arriving in Oklahoma City as a teenager and the bond that formed with fans during his eight seasons there.
· 1 min read
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Early Arrival and Warm Welcome
Kevin Durant reached Oklahoma City in 2008 at age 19 during his second season in the league. The young roster started slowly yet advanced to the 2012 Finals with a core of future MVPs. That group made only one Finals appearance in the city before Durant departed in 2016. He now plays his second season with the Houston Rockets after being picked second overall in the 2007 draft.
Building Ties With Fans and History
Durant has described how the city embraced the team despite its rebuilding phase. He noted the energy in the arena and the way residents viewed the franchise as a source of pride after earlier hardship. Visits to local landmarks helped the players understand the community's past and strengthened the connection between the roster and its supporters.
Watching From Afar in 2025
The Thunder captured the 2025 title, completing a run the earlier group had started. Durant said he feels grateful to have helped launch the franchise and still holds a soft spot for the state when facing the team. The Rockets visit Oklahoma City on Oct. 31 in the first meeting of the season.
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