Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant was surprised by the critical acclaim his response to a matchup-related inquiry had after a Game 2 loss to the L.A. Clippers. The clip, which quickly went viral due to its lengthy and detailed response, ended with a postmark statement — “I'm Kevin Durant. You know who I am. Y'all know who I am.” — a statement that resonated as a clear understanding of his status in the NBA realm.
“This was the first time this season that my actual basketball play, and not about what I’m going to do in the future, took over the headlines,” Kevin Durant told Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports after a rousing 132-105 Game 3 win. “Think about that now. That hasn’t happened in a long time. I like that. That’s the way it should be.”
Durant has been long imploring reporters to cease with the free agency questions and instead ask questions related to the game.
This is what happens when media members take him up on his request, a basketball savant giving his thorough insight and clear breakdown of what went wrong and what must go right for him to succeed — perhaps in ways 98% of the NBA would be be unable to match.
Much like LeBron James' wizardly-photographic memory stole headlines last postseason, Durant's basketball genius was the talk of the town this time around, showcasing his evolution as a player — going from an iso-star to a full-fledged team player understanding of the game's complexities.
“This game is what it’s all about, not about something that hasn’t even happened,” said Durant in regards of his impending free agency. “Let’s enjoy basketball. I can take the criticism about the game. This is what we’re paid to do. That should be the focus. This is good.”
Durant did good on his promise to improve, scorching the Clippers for a game-high 38 points through three quarters, this time getting the superstar rest in the fourth period after being ejected in Game 1 and fouling out in Game 2.
Follow Us
Subscribe