When Kevin Durant made the decision to leave the Oklahoma City Thunder and join the 73-9 Golden State Warriors in 2016, it sent shockwaves through the NBA and sparked one of the most heated debates in sports history. The Warriors, coming off a historic season where they set a new regular-season win record, were already a powerhouse, and Durant’s decision to sign with them raised eyebrows across the league. Fans and analysts were divided – some praised the move as a way for Durant to chase championships, while others viewed it as a betrayal, accusing him of taking the easy way out after losing to the Warriors in the previous year’s Western Conference Finals.
The backlash from Durant’s decision was immediate and intense. Critics argued that by joining the Warriors, Durant was effectively choosing to “stack the deck” in his favor, circumventing the challenge of building his own championship team. The phrase “can’t beat them, join them” quickly became associated with Durant’s move, painting him as a player who was more focused on rings than legacy. On the other hand, some defended his choice, suggesting that players are entitled to seek the best opportunities available, just like anyone else in any profession. Despite the mixed reactions, Durant’s move irrevocably changed the NBA landscape, with the Warriors becoming even more dominant and winning two NBA Championships in the next two seasons.
However, in an interview on the “Out The Mud Podcast,” Kevin Durant shared his perspective on the decision, offering a side of the story that was often overshadowed by the public’s criticism. Durant admitted he understood why people were upset, acknowledging the optics of joining a team that had just defeated his own. But he also emphasized that his decision was not based on the expectations or opinions of others. Durant revealed that he was seeking a fresh challenge and wanted to experience playing in a different system and style. He explained that his desire was to play in a more team-oriented environment, where players could focus on collective success rather than individual glory.
Durant’s desire for a “new experience” and a shift in his playing style played a significant role in his decision-making process. The Warriors, known for their unselfish ball movement and emphasis on teamwork, seemed like the perfect fit for Durant’s skills. Unlike the Thunder, where Durant had been the focal point of the offense, joining Golden State allowed him to play alongside players like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green – all of whom had a deep understanding of team basketball. Durant noted that the Warriors’ approach to the game, centered on creating open shots and spacing, was a perfect match for his versatility and skills.
While the decision may have been controversial at the time, Durant’s explanation sheds light on a side of the story that many fans may not have fully considered. It wasn’t just about chasing championships or making an easy move—it was about the opportunity to play the game in a new way, alongside players who could complement his skill set and help elevate his game. In hindsight, Durant’s time with the Warriors helped him develop his game further and solidified his place as one of the greatest players of his era. Still, the debate surrounding his decision remains a defining chapter in his career and the NBA’s modern history.