Kevin Durant is one of his era’s most decorated basketball players as well as one of the greatest of all time. Among all that he’s accomplished as a basketball player, he’s also had the honor of playing for Team USA.
Durant takes the honor very seriously. When discussing it for the upcoming Netflix film “Court of Gold,” Durant got very emotional about representing his country in the Olympics.
Kevin Durant Explains Why Playing for Team USA Means So Much to Him
Durant explained how basketball has made him happier knowing where he grew up.
“I come from a neighborhood where people don’t even talk to each other,” Durant said as he started to tear up. “So much hate in the world, too. When people get to start laughing and joking for a game of ball, it’s cool to me. So like, it gets me emotional, dawg.”
Durant explained why playing on the Olympic team means so much to him.
“It’s crazy to see people travel so long to come see their favorite player in the Olympics. They spent their money. They bring their whole family. It’s just dope to me,” Durant said while continuing to get emotional.
Durant also talked about the impact basketball has had on his life as a whole.
The game has saved my life,” Durant said. “It brought me and my family out of a lot of b*******, so I’m just like grateful for it. For real.”
Kevin Durant tearing up about playing on the Olympic stage is a moment to witness.
Court of Gold premieres in 12 hours. pic.twitter.com/jWSAC9pA5a
— Netflix (@netflix) February 17, 2025
Durant has played for Team USA in the last four Olympics, dating back to 2012. Durant played a pivotal role in Team USA winning the gold medal in all four appearances. How much the opportunity has meant to Durant all these years is made clear in his statements.
From pretty much the jump of his NBA career, Durant has been one of the league’s very best players. However, that hasn’t made him unappreciative of the opportunity to represent his country on professional basketball’s biggest international stage.
It’s clear how much basketball has meant to Durant because, from the horse’s mouth, it really helped him get through some rough times when he was growing up. To see fans show their devotion to the game by seeing him and other NBA players overseas has also left a strong impression on him.
The next Olympics will be in 2028. By then, Durant will be 40; regardless, that might not stop him from playing for the team. Even at 36, Durant is still playing at a high level, so there’s no telling if, much like LeBron James, he is still playing at that level when he reaches that age.