NBA21h ago
Durant Responds to Ishbia Remarks on Suns Period
Social media exchange highlights differing views on Phoenix acquisition and team direction after trade to Houston
· 2 min read
On this page3 sections
Trade Background and Owner Comments
The February 2023 purchase of the Suns for a $4 billion valuation led immediately to a deal that brought Durant from Brooklyn in exchange for forwards Mikal Bridges and Cameron Johnson plus four unprotected first-round picks and a pick swap. Ishbia later reflected that the team sat as the eighth or ninth seed at the time and that he had approved spending to pursue a title without a clear internal vision, describing the move as not aligned with his long-term plan for the organization.
Final Season and Houston Move
In his last year with Phoenix, Durant posted averages of 26.0 points, 6.0 rebounds and 4.2 assists across 62 games before the 2025 offseason trade that sent him to Houston in the first seven-team deal in league history. He has maintained at least 25 points per game with 50 percent field goal shooting and 40 percent from three-point range across four consecutive seasons. Durant signed a two-year, $90 million contract extension last October that includes a player option for 2027-28. Ishbia cited the lack of a defined culture as a reason the addition of talented players did not produce championships and noted subsequent steps to add general manager Brian Gregory and coach Jordan Ott while emphasizing off-court character.
Analysis, not a wagering instruction. Confirm every number on the sportsbook. 21+.
Social Media Exchange
Kevin Durant pushed back against Suns owner Mat Ishbia after the owner described the decision to acquire the forward as a lesson in early ownership. Durant noted his consistent performance at age 36 and contributions to the team's culture during a period that included just one playoff series win in two and a half seasons. Ishbia replied that he placed no blame on Durant but expressed satisfaction with the current direction and personnel in Phoenix while wishing him well in Houston.