Landon Buford
In a recent post-practice interview on Wednesday afternoon, NBA superstar Kevin Durant weighed in on the prospect of having his jersey retired in Seattle once the Sonics return, offering a humble and heartfelt response that emphasized his respect for the city’s basketball heritage. Durant’s comments shed light on his reverence for the game and his recognition of the iconic figures who paved the way before him.
“No! I was only there for a year. Of course not,” Durant stated, dismissing any notion of his own jersey hanging from the rafters of a potential new Sonics arena. Instead, Durant immediately shifted the spotlight onto two of the most legendary figures in Sonics history: Gary Payton and Shawn Kemp.
Durant’s reverence for Payton and Kemp, known affectionately as “The Glove” and “The Reign Man,” respectively, was palpable in his words. “I think the first guys that should have their jerseys retired are Gary Payton and Shawn Kemp,” Durant asserted, showcasing his admiration for the dynamic duo who left an indelible mark on the Sonics franchise during their playing days.
But Durant didn’t stop there. Recognizing the depth of talent and the contributions of other former Sonics players, he expressed reluctance in singling out names. “I hate just naming names because it’s probably a couple more Rashard Lewis like those guys,” Durant explained, highlighting the difficulty in narrowing down a list of deserving candidates. However, he emphasized that Payton and Kemp were at the top of his list, deserving of the highest honor the franchise can bestow.
The significance of Durant’s statement extends beyond mere words. As one of the most accomplished and respected players in the modern NBA era, Durant’s acknowledgment of Payton and Kemp’s legacy reaffirms the importance of honoring the history and tradition of the Seattle SuperSonics. It serves as a reminder to current and future generations of basketball fans of the greatness that once graced the hardwood in the Emerald City.
Durant’s humility and deference to the Sonics legends underscore his understanding of basketball’s broader cultural significance and the enduring impact of those who came before him. His words resonate deeply with Sonics faithful, who eagerly await the return of their beloved team and the opportunity to pay homage to the icons of yesteryear.
As the NBA landscape evolves and the possibility of a new era for Seattle basketball looms on the horizon, Durant’s sentiments serve as a poignant reminder of the franchise’s storied past and the timeless greatness embodied by players like Gary Payton and Shawn Kemp. With Durant’s blessing, Sonics fans can look forward to the day when the jerseys of their heroes will rightfully hang from the rafters once again.
