UPDATE: Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant hit a thrilling game-winning shot against the Phoenix Suns on October 30, 2023, sealing a 100-97 victory with just 1.1 seconds left on the clock. This moment was especially significant for Durant, who expressed that the game held extra weight due to his complicated past with the Suns, a team he feels he was ‘kicked out’ from.
Scoring 26 points in the match, Durant’s decisive 27-foot three-pointer not only showcased his skill but also highlighted his emotional connection to the game. “Most definitely,” Durant stated when asked if the win felt more meaningful against his former team. “A place that I didn’t want to leave. My first time — I don’t want to sound too dramatic, but I will — to be kicked out of a place.”
Durant’s journey to the Rockets began this summer after a blockbuster trade that sent Dillon Brooks and Jalen Green to the Suns. Reflecting on his time in Phoenix, he shared, “It feels good to play against a team that booted you out of the building and scapegoated you for all the problems they had.” His passion for the team and the Phoenix community was evident, as he emphasized the emotional investment he had during his tenure there.
During his 2.5 seasons with the Suns, Durant was a two-time All-Star but faced disappointment as the team failed to meet playoff expectations, suffering a first-round exit in the 2023-24 season and missing the playoffs entirely last season. “It’s nothing but love for the players, but I want to beat that team,” he commented, underscoring the competitive spirit that drives athletes when facing former teammates.
Despite the charged atmosphere, Durant expressed a desire to move on quickly from these feelings. “By the time I get home tonight, I probably won’t even remember it,” he said, hinting at the transient nature of sports rivalries.
As the Rockets look to build on this victory, fans are eager to see how Durant’s fierce competitive spirit will impact future games. With the NBA season well underway, all eyes will be on Durant and the Rockets as they aim for success amidst a backdrop of intense rivalries and high stakes.
