Kevin Durant returned to a familiar setting last weekend as he gears up for a highly anticipated game back in Austin, Texas. The Phoenix Suns, with Durant leading the way, will face off against the San Antonio Spurs, allowing the All-Star forward a chance to revisit the city where he played one season of college basketball with the Longhorns. This matchup represents a sentimental journey for Durant, reflecting on the time he spent there.
Durant shared his excitement about the upcoming game, stating, “It does mean a lot to me. I’m thrilled that we get to play a regular-season game there. Austin is where I began this journey, and having so many friends and family still in the area after all these years is pretty amazing. I’m grateful to the NBA for arranging this opportunity. It’s truly a special moment.” Durant’s sole season at the University of Texas was during 2006-07 when he established himself as one of college basketball’s standout players. He averaged an impressive 25.8 points and 11.1 rebounds per game, earning numerous accolades, including being named player of the year by various organizations.
Following his successful college career, Durant declared for the NBA draft, getting selected as the second overall pick by Seattle in 2007. Over the years, he has amassed significant achievements, including being the only male player in USA Basketball’s history to secure four Olympic gold medals. He also clinched two championships with the Golden State Warriors and recently achieved the milestone of becoming the eighth player in NBA history to surpass 30,000 career points.
Texas coach Rodney Terry expressed his thoughts on Durant’s return, recognizing the impact he has had both as a player and on the city of Austin. He remarked, “It’s a fantastic opportunity not just for him but for the local fans to come out and support one of our great players who is still in his prime. He has an incredible scoring record at both the collegiate and professional levels. Having him back to play against such a storied franchise like the Spurs is a remarkable scenario.”
This season marks the third consecutive year where the Spurs have hosted games in Austin, located about 75 miles northeast of San Antonio. The team views Austin as an extension of their fanbase, seeking to strengthen their connection within this region and even into Mexico. The Spurs’ decision to play games in Austin helps to fill the gap created by the annual rodeo road trip, undergoing significant travel during the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo season in February.
In addition to their matchup against the Spurs on Thursday, the Spurs will also play in Austin against the Detroit Pistons on Friday. The Suns arrived in Austin on Tuesday, and Durant took the opportunity to stop by the Longhorns’ practice facilities. “I plan to explore the city a bit,” Durant mentioned when asked about his time in Austin. “While I don’t have a specific plan, there are definitely places I’d like to revisit.”
While Austin is predominantly considered a Spurs stronghold, especially with the team’s G League affiliate located there, the crowd at the Moody Center will likely showcase a mix of Spurs and Texas jerseys, adding to the event’s atmosphere. Many fans in attendance will undoubtedly display their support for Durant, reflecting his significant influence on the basketball community. Terry added, “Having him back among our players and within the Texas program is fantastic. For many of our athletes, Durant is their favorite player, and his legacy has greatly impacted our program and Texas athletics overall.”
