During a post-practice press conference at the Footprint Center, Durant stepped up to the podium, flanked by team officials and media, and delivered a heartfelt message that no one saw coming.
“After a lot of thought and deep conversations with my family, my teammates, and myself… I’ve decided this will be my final season in the NBA,” Durant announced, his voice steady but emotional.
The room fell into stunned silence as reporters processed the bombshell. Coach Budenholzer, who had joined the Suns ahead of the 2024–25 season and was seen nodding slowly beside Durant, appeared visibly emotional.
“I didn’t see this coming,” Budenholzer admitted afterward. “Kevin is a generational player, and more importantly, a phenomenal leader. It’s hard to imagine this team — or this league — without him.”
Durant, now 36, has had a legendary career spanning nearly two decades. A two-time NBA champion, two-time Finals MVP, league MVP, and 14-time All-Star, he’s widely considered one of the greatest scorers in NBA history. This season with the Suns, he’s continued to play at an elite level, averaging over 25 points per game and serving as a key pillar in the team’s playoff push.
“I still love the game,” Durant said. “I just know in my heart it’s time. I want to walk away on my own terms — healthy, and still playing at the top of my game.”
Fans quickly flooded social media with reactions ranging from disbelief to gratitude, with hashtags like #ThankYouKD and #DurantLegacy trending within minutes.
Durant assured fans he remains fully committed to finishing the season strong and is laser-focused on helping the Suns compete for a title.
“I’m not done yet,” he said with a small smile. “There’s still business to handle.”
As the Suns gear up for the playoffs, Durant’s announcement adds a powerful layer of urgency and inspiration for the team and its supporters. Whether or not a championship is in the cards, one thing is certain — Kevin Durant’s final chapter will be one to remember.
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