Superstar <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/basketball-phoenix-suns-trade-kevin-durant-to-houston-rockets-in-blockbuster-nba-deal-1750663117065">Kevin Durant is headed from the Phoenix Suns to Houston as part of an NBA-record seven-team deal</a>, the Rockets confirmed on Sunday. The Rockets will also welcome back Clint Capela in a sign-and-trade deal with Atlanta, Houston said in a statement posted on the team website. Also involved in the blockbuster transfer were the Brooklyn Nets, Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves and Los Angeles Lakers.&nbsp;Durant, in a Sunday post on X, sent a farewell message to fans in Phoenix while making it clear he is excited to be heading for Houston, his fifth career NBA club.&nbsp;"My time in Phoenix has come to an end," Durant posted. "All these stops along the journey have really impacted me in a positive way. Remember it's a world behind the scenes, and those who make things work in that space, work tirelessly to make our lives easier as players.&nbsp;“I truly believe this nba is a one big community. Much love to Arizona. Houston, Can’t Wait!”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">My time in Phoenix has come to an end. All these stops along the journey have really impacted me in a positive way. Remeber it’s a world behind the scenes, and those who make things work in that space, work tirelessly to make our lives easier as players. I appreciate all the…&mdash; Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) <a href="https://twitter.com/KDTrey5/status/1941943631390425105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Durant, a 15-time NBA All-Star forward, turns 37 in September. The 2014 NBA Most Valuable Player won NBA titles with Golden State in 2017 and 2018.&nbsp;"Kevin impacts the game on both ends of the court and is one of the most efficient scorers in the history of basketball," Rockets general manager Rafael Stone said in a statement. "We liked the growth our team showed last season and believe Kevin's skill set will integrate seamlessly."&nbsp;Capela, a 31-year-old Swiss center, played his first six NBA seasons in Houston and the past five for the Hawks. He averaged 8.9 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 1.0 blocks a game and joins New Zealand's Steven Adams as a big-man backup to Turkey's Alperen Sengun.&nbsp;The Suns' haul after losing Durant included 18-year-old South Sudanese 7-foot-2 (2.18m) center Khaman Maluach, the 10th overall pick in June's NBA draft, plus Houston forward Dillon Brooks of Canada and guard Jalen Green, Atlanta wing Daeqwon Plowden, Minnesota forward Rasheer Fleming and Golden State guard Koby Brea of the Dominican Republic.&nbsp;The Hawks got cash and a 2031 draft pick swap from Houston while Brooklyn obtained two future second-round selections and sent the rights to incoming US rookie forward Adou Thiero to the Lakers.&nbsp;The Warriors obtained the rights to Australian forward Alex Toohey, the 52nd pick in last month's draft, and US guard Jahmai Mashack, the last pick in the draft.&nbsp;Minnesota landed two future draft picks from the Suns and 18-year-old Australian 7-foot-3 center Rocco Zikarsky, the 45th pick in the draft, from the Lakers.&nbsp;Durant had confirmed last month he was "looking forward" to joining the Rockets after reports he was headed to Houston surfaced on the day of game seven of the NBA Finals.&nbsp;However, the deal could not be finalized until the league's yearly moratorium on signing ended on Sunday.<h3>No. 2 pick in 2007</h3>"Having played against Kevin and coached him before, I know he's the type of competitor who fits with what we’ve been building here in Houston," said Rockets coach Ime Udoka, who worked with Durant at the Brooklyn Nets and on the US Olympic squad.&nbsp;Durant joined Phoenix in February 2023 in a trade with Brooklyn that cost the Suns three players and four first-round draft picks.&nbsp;With Durant, the Suns won only one playoff series in three seasons before the swap with the Rockets, who missed the playoffs four years in a row before falling to Golden State in this year's first round.&nbsp;Durant began his NBA journey as the second selection in the 2007 draft by the Seattle SuperSonics, who moved to Oklahoma City in 2008.&nbsp;Durant, a four-time NBA scoring champion with the Thunder, sparked his team to the NBA Finals in 2012, when Oklahoma City lost to the LeBron James-led Miami Heat.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Durant, in a Sunday post on X, sent a farewell message to fans in Phoenix while making it clear he is excited to be heading for Houston, his fifth career NBA club.

Superstar Kevin Durant is headed from the Phoenix Suns to Houston as part of an NBA-record seven-team deal, the Rockets confirmed on Sunday. The Rockets will also welcome back Clint Capela in a sign-and-trade deal with Atlanta, Houston said in a statement posted on the team website. Also involved in the blockbuster transfer were the Brooklyn Nets, Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves and Los Angeles Lakers. Durant, in a Sunday post on X, sent a farewell message to fans in Phoenix while making it clear he is excited to be heading for Houston, his fifth career NBA club. "My time in Phoenix has come to an end," Durant posted. "All these stops along the journey have really impacted me in a positive way. Remember it's a world behind the scenes, and those who make things work in that space, work tirelessly to make our lives easier as players. “I truly believe this nba is a one big community. Much love to Arizona. Houston, Can’t Wait!”

Durant, in a Sunday post on X, sent a farewell message to fans in Phoenix while making it clear he is excited to be heading for Houston, his fifth career NBA club.

Rockets confirm Kevin Durant’s arrival in unprecedented NBA seven-team trade

Two-time NBA champion forward Kevin Durant has been traded from the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets for eight players in a blockbuster deal he confirmed on Sunday.&nbsp;The swap, which can be completed when the league begins the 2025-26 year in two weeks, would send the 36-year-old American to Houston in exchange for guard Jalen Green and swingman Dillon Brooks as well as the 10th pick in Wednesday's NBA Draft and five future second-round picks, according to the report, citing unnamed sources.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-shai-gilgeous-alexander-named-nba-finals-mvp-after-oklahoma-city-thunder-clinch-maiden-title-1750654636836">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander named NBA 2024-25 MVP after Oklahoma City Thunder clinch maiden title</a>&nbsp;The move unites Durant, a four-time Olympic champion with the US squad and the 2014 NBA MVP, with a rising young Houston squad guided by coach Ime Udoka that finished 52-30, second in the Western Conference behind overall NBA leader Oklahoma City.&nbsp;Durant was appearing on a panel at Fanatics Fest in New York when the news broke and told reporter Kay Adams he was happy with the move.&nbsp;"Being part of the Houston Rockets, I'm looking forward to it," Durant said. "Crazy, crazy last couple weeks, but I'm glad it's over with."&nbsp;The Suns had the highest payroll in NBA history but stumbled to a 36-46 season, finishing 11th in the West, with Durant averaging 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.2 blocked shots a game.&nbsp;Terms can be agreed for NBA moves, but cannot be finalised until the moratorium ahead of the new league season ends in July.&nbsp;Durant has an expiring $54.7 million contract but would be eligible for a two-year extension after a trade, which narrowed likely suitors to the teams where he would sign a longer-term deal.&nbsp;Durant had sought a trade to Miami, Houston or San Antonio and got a club on his wish list.&nbsp;The second-round picks in the deal coming to Phoenix include Wednesday's 59th overall selection, two choices in 2026, a 2030 pick and a 2032 selection, ESPN reported.&nbsp;Durant will fit into a Rockets lineup boasting Turkish big man Alperen Sengun and guard Fred VanVleet.&nbsp;Durant has a good relationship with Udoka, who signed a long-term deal last week to remain as Houston's coach. Durant and Udoka worked together with the Brooklyn Nets and on the US Olympic squad.&nbsp;"They had a great season last year," Durant said. "Love their leadership. I felt like I would be a good addition."&nbsp;The Suns will add Green, who averaged 21.0 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.4 assists this season, to their backcourt alongside NBA All-Star Devin Booker, who had 25.6 points, 7.1 assists and 4.1 rebounds a game for Phoenix.&nbsp;Brooks was one of the NBA's top defenders last season.&nbsp;Durant joined Phoenix in February 2023 in a trade with Brooklyn that cost the Suns three players and four first-round draft picks.&nbsp;"Always remember my time there, but we're on to something else," Durant said.&nbsp;With Durant, the Suns won only one playoff series in three seasons before the swap with the Rockets, who missed the playoffs four years in a row before falling to Golden State in this year's first round.&nbsp;"Being able to kind of dictate what you want to do and being with a team that values you, I'm looking forward to it," Durant said.<h2>No. 2 pick in 2007</h2>&nbsp;Durant began his NBA journey as the second selection in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Seattle SuperSonics, who moved to Oklahoma City in 2008.&nbsp;Durant, a four-time NBA scoring champion with the Thunder, sparked his team to the NBA Finals in 2012, when Oklahoma City lost to the LeBron James-led Miami Heat. Durant was the 2014 NBA MVP, but the Thunder lost to San Antonio in that year's Western Conference finals.&nbsp;In 2016, the Thunder blew a 3-1 series lead and lost to Golden State in the West finals.&nbsp;After the Warriors lost to Cleveland in the NBA Finals, several players asked Durant, a free agent, to sign with them. Durant inked a two-year deal with the Warriors, and they beat Cleveland in the 2017 and 2018 finals.&nbsp;Durant suffered a torn Achilles tendon in the 2019 NBA Finals against Toronto, and he left for Brooklyn the following month. The Nets with Durant never got past the second playoff round.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Phoenix Suns trade Kevin Durant to Houston Rockets in blockbuster NBA deal

Two-time NBA champion forward Kevin Durant has been traded from the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets for eight players in a blockbuster deal he confirmed on Sunday. The swap, which can be completed when the league begins the 2025-26 year in two weeks, would send the 36-year-old American to Houston in exchange for guard Jalen Green and swingman Dillon Brooks as well as the 10th pick in Wednesday's NBA Draft and five future second-round picks, according to the report, citing unnamed sources. Also read | Shai Gilgeous-Alexander named NBA 2024-25 MVP after Oklahoma City Thunder clinch maiden title The move unites Durant, a four-time Olympic champion with the US squad and the 2014 NBA MVP, with a rising young Houston squad guided by coach Ime Udoka that finished 52-30, second in the Western Conference behind overall NBA leader Oklahoma City. Durant was appearing on a panel at Fanatics Fest in New York when the news broke and told reporter Kay Adams he was happy with the move. "Being part of the Houston Rockets, I'm looking forward to it," Durant said. "Crazy, crazy last couple weeks, but I'm glad it's over with." The Suns had the highest payroll in NBA history but stumbled to a 36-46 season, finishing 11th in the West, with Durant averaging 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.2 blocked shots a game. Terms can be agreed for NBA moves, but cannot be finalised until the moratorium ahead of the new league season ends in July. Durant has an expiring $54.7 million contract but would be eligible for a two-year extension after a trade, which narrowed likely suitors to the teams where he would sign a longer-term deal. Durant had sought a trade to Miami, Houston or San Antonio and got a club on his wish list. The second-round picks in the deal coming to Phoenix include Wednesday's 59th overall selection, two choices in 2026, a 2030 pick and a 2032 selection, ESPN reported. Durant will fit into a Rockets lineup boasting Turkish big man Alperen Sengun and guard Fred VanVleet. Durant has a good relationship with Udoka, who signed a long-term deal last week to remain as Houston's coach. Durant and Udoka worked together with the Brooklyn Nets and on the US Olympic squad. "They had a great season last year," Durant said. "Love their leadership. I felt like I would be a good addition." The Suns will add Green, who averaged 21.0 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.4 assists this season, to their backcourt alongside NBA All-Star Devin Booker, who had 25.6 points, 7.1 assists and 4.1 rebounds a game for Phoenix. Brooks was one of the NBA's top defenders last season. Durant joined Phoenix in February 2023 in a trade with Brooklyn that cost the Suns three players and four first-round draft picks. "Always remember my time there, but we're on to something else," Durant said. With Durant, the Suns won only one playoff series in three seasons before the swap with the Rockets, who missed the playoffs four years in a row before falling to Golden State in this year's first round. "Being able to kind of dictate what you want to do and being with a team that values you, I'm looking forward to it," Durant said. No. 2 pick in 2007 Durant began his NBA journey as the second selection in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Seattle SuperSonics, who moved to Oklahoma City in 2008. Durant, a four-time NBA scoring champion with the Thunder, sparked his team to the NBA Finals in 2012, when Oklahoma City lost to the LeBron James-led Miami Heat. Durant was the 2014 NBA MVP, but the Thunder lost to San Antonio in that year's Western Conference finals. In 2016, the Thunder blew a 3-1 series lead and lost to Golden State in the West finals. After the Warriors lost to Cleveland in the NBA Finals, several players asked Durant, a free agent, to sign with them. Durant inked a two-year deal with the Warriors, and they beat Cleveland in the 2017 and 2018 finals. Durant suffered a torn Achilles tendon in the 2019 NBA Finals against Toronto, and he left for Brooklyn the following month. The Nets with Durant never got past the second playoff round. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The move unites Durant, a four-time Olympic champion with the US squad and the 2014 NBA MVP, with a rising young Houston squad guided by coach Ime Udoka that finished 52-30, second in the Western Conference behind overall NBA leader Oklahoma City.

Donovan Mitchell led from the front as the Cleveland Cavaliers bagged their 60th win of the NBA season with a 127-122 victory over the in-form Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday.
Cleveland talisman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donovan-mitchell">Donovan Mitchell</a> finished with 24 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists in what Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson described as his best performance of the season.
Sunday's victory means Cleveland have reached 60 wins in a season for the first time since the 2009-2010 campaign, and for only the third time in franchise history.&nbsp;More significantly, the win leaves Cleveland 4.5 games clear of NBA champions Boston in the race for the No.1 seeding in the Eastern Conference playoffs with just seven regular season fixtures remaining.
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Atkinson said reaching 60 wins was beyond his expectations at the start of the campaign following a 48-victory season in 2023-2024.
"I didn't expect 60 wins," Atkinson said. "My internal goal was 'Can we improve from last year?' That was kind of where my mind was.
"But for this team to take it to another level and kind of shatter that, says a lot. And we're not done -- we can still add to that.&nbsp;"But we've got to celebrate this. It's not the end goal, but we should take a deep breath and celebrate 60 wins.
"It's so hard to do in this league. I'm really happy for the guys today."&nbsp;Mitchell received offensive support from Jarrett Allen with 25 points, while Evan Mobley added 22 and Darius Garland 19.
<h2>'Best game' of season</h2>
But Atkinson reserved special praise for Mitchell, who was immense at both ends of the court, with four steals in addition to his points tally.&nbsp;"He's at that kind of maturity and mental level where he can manipulate the game how he wants it," Atkinson said of the 28-year-old six-time NBA All-Star. "I would argue that this was probably his best all around game all year."
The defeat left the Clippers in eighth position in the Western Conference, where they are locked in a ferocious dog-fight with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/golden-state-warriors">Golden State Warriors</a> and Minnesota Timberwolves for an automatic ticket into the playoffs.
The Clippers are on 42-32, just behind Golden State and Minnesota, who both won on Sunday.&nbsp;The top six teams in the Western Conference advance to the playoffs while teams ranked from seventh to 10th play a mini-tournament to determine the final two playoff slots.
The Warriors boosted their chances of claiming an automatic berth after thrashing the San Antonio Spurs 148-106 on the road in Texas to remain in sixth place.
The Timberwolves are in seventh after a stormy 123-104 win over the Detroit Pistons. The game was notable for a brawl in the second quarter which saw seven players and two coaches -- including Detroit head coach J.B. Bickerstaff -- ejected.
The&nbsp;Phoenix&nbsp;Suns' hopes of making the West play-in took a blow with a 148-109 loss to the Houston Rockets -- and the loss of superstar <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kevin-durant">Kevin Durant</a> with an ankle injury in the third quarter.
Durant stepped on the foot of Houston's Jabari Smith Jr. on a drive to the basket and rolled his left ankle, dropping to the court in pain. He was helped to the sideline and didn't return.
The Rockets, second in the West, were already up 92-57, unfazed by the second-quarter ejection of Dillon Brooks after he fouled Durant and wouldn't let go, then berated a game official in the wake of the scuffle.
Jalen Green poured in 33 points to lead eight Houston players to score in double figures while Devin Booker scored 28 to lead the Phoenix Suns.
In the Eastern Conference, the Atlanta Hawks dominated the Milwaukee Bucks 145-124 to improve to 36-38, with Zaccharie Risacher scoring a game-high 36 points.
At Madison Square Garden the third-placed New York Knicks outlasted the Portland Trail Blazers 110-93.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

NBA, Sports: Cleveland talisman Mitchell finished with 24 points, 12 rebounds and 7 assists in what Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson described as his best performance of season

Donovan Mitchell led from the front as the Cleveland Cavaliers bagged their 60th win of the NBA season with a 127-122 victory over the in-form Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday. Cleveland talisman Donovan Mitchell finished with 24 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists in what Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson described as his best performance of the season. Sunday's victory means Cleveland have reached 60 wins in a season for the first time since the 2009-2010 campaign, and for only the third time in franchise history. More significantly, the win leaves Cleveland 4.5 games clear of NBA champions Boston in the race for the No.1 seeding in the Eastern Conference playoffs with just seven regular season fixtures remaining. Also Read: Miami Open: Djokovic falls short of 100th career title as Czech teenager Jakub Mensik lifts title Atkinson said reaching 60 wins was beyond his expectations at the start of the campaign following a 48-victory season in 2023-2024. "I didn't expect 60 wins," Atkinson said. "My internal goal was 'Can we improve from last year?' That was kind of where my mind was. "But for this team to take it to another level and kind of shatter that, says a lot. And we're not done -- we can still add to that. "But we've got to celebrate this. It's not the end goal, but we should take a deep breath and celebrate 60 wins. "It's so hard to do in this league. I'm really happy for the guys today." Mitchell received offensive support from Jarrett Allen with 25 points, while Evan Mobley added 22 and Darius Garland 19. 'Best game' of season But Atkinson reserved special praise for Mitchell, who was immense at both ends of the court, with four steals in addition to his points tally. "He's at that kind of maturity and mental level where he can manipulate the game how he wants it," Atkinson said of the 28-year-old six-time NBA All-Star. "I would argue that this was probably his best all around game all year." The defeat left the Clippers in eighth position in the Western Conference, where they are locked in a ferocious dog-fight with the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves for an automatic ticket into the playoffs. The Clippers are on 42-32, just behind Golden State and Minnesota, who both won on Sunday. The top six teams in the Western Conference advance to the playoffs while teams ranked from seventh to 10th play a mini-tournament to determine the final two playoff slots. The Warriors boosted their chances of claiming an automatic berth after thrashing the San Antonio Spurs 148-106 on the road in Texas to remain in sixth place. The Timberwolves are in seventh after a stormy 123-104 win over the Detroit Pistons. The game was notable for a brawl in the second quarter which saw seven players and two coaches -- including Detroit head coach J.B. Bickerstaff -- ejected. The Phoenix Suns' hopes of making the West play-in took a blow with a 148-109 loss to the Houston Rockets -- and the loss of superstar Kevin Durant with an ankle injury in the third quarter. Durant stepped on the foot of Houston's Jabari Smith Jr. on a drive to the basket and rolled his left ankle, dropping to the court in pain. He was helped to the sideline and didn't return. The Rockets, second in the West, were already up 92-57, unfazed by the second-quarter ejection of Dillon Brooks after he fouled Durant and wouldn't let go, then berated a game official in the wake of the scuffle. Jalen Green poured in 33 points to lead eight Houston players to score in double figures while Devin Booker scored 28 to lead the Phoenix Suns. In the Eastern Conference, the Atlanta Hawks dominated the Milwaukee Bucks 145-124 to improve to 36-38, with Zaccharie Risacher scoring a game-high 36 points. At Madison Square Garden the third-placed New York Knicks outlasted the Portland Trail Blazers 110-93. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

NBA: Mitchell steals show as Cavs beat Clippers, double blow for Suns as Durant gets injured amid loss to Rockets

Kevin Durant returned from injury to produce a shooting masterclass as the United States launched the defence of their Olympic basketball crown with a 110-84 win over Serbia on Sunday.

Durant, who missed the entirety of the USA's Olympic build-up with a calf injury, shot a near-perfect 8-of-9 from the field to finish with 23 points in a convincing win for the reigning champions, who are eyeing a fifth straight Olympic crown.

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The 35-year-old Phoenix Suns ace, the all-time leader for the USA in points, points-per-game and field goals, entered the game in the first quarter with the star-studded American line-up trailing 19-14.

The 14-time NBA All-Star, a member of the USA's gold medal-winning Olympic teams in 2012, 2016, and in Tokyo three years ago, then proceeded to take over, raining in a succession of buckets to get the Americans back on track.

LeBron James provided scoring support with 21 points, with Jrue Holiday adding 15 points and Devin Booker finishing on 12.

Denver star Nikola Jokic led the Serbia scoring with 20 points.

The USA are the overwhelming favourites for the Olympic crown and have arrived in France with a squad featuring a galaxy of NBA stars led by the likes of James, Durant and Stephen Curry.

They face South Sudan in their second group game on Wednesday before wrapping up the first round in Lille against Puerto Rico next Saturday.

On Sunday's evidence Golden State coach Steve Kerr's squad will take some stopping when the 12-team tournament moves to Paris for the knockout rounds on August 6.

Serbia, led by three-time NBA Most Valuable Player Jokic, made a fast start in Sunday's clash at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium in Lille, sprinting into an early 10-2 lead.

But the arrival of Durant from the bench galvanised the US line-up, and once the Americans found their shooting touch the result was never in doubt.

Durant was welcomed into the game with a blatant body check by Vasilije Micic which sent the 6ft 11in (2.11m) 35-year-old sprawling to the hardwood.

Durant, however, took the Serbian physicality in stride and tormented the Europeans with an exhibition of flawless shooting to help the USA pull clear 25-20 at the end of the first quarter.

Durant put the seal on the second quarter with a superb jump shot to leave the Americans up 58-49 at the break, and the champions never looked like relinquishing their grip on the game thereafter as they motored to victory.

(Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Kevin Durant returned from injury to produce a shooting masterclass as the United States launched the defence of their Olympic basketball crown with a 110-84 win over Serbia on Sunday.

Kevin Durant returned from injury to produce a shooting masterclass as the United States launched the defence of their Olympic basketball crown with a 110-84 win over Serbia on Sunday. Durant, who missed the entirety of the USA's Olympic build-up with a calf injury, shot a near-perfect 8-of-9 from the field to finish with 23 points in a convincing win for the reigning champions, who are eyeing a fifth straight Olympic crown. Also Read: Paris Games 2024: 'Priority is health..,' Triathlon swimming training session cancelled at Olympics | Read Why The 35-year-old Phoenix Suns ace, the all-time leader for the USA in points, points-per-game and field goals, entered the game in the first quarter with the star-studded American line-up trailing 19-14. The 14-time NBA All-Star, a member of the USA's gold medal-winning Olympic teams in 2012, 2016, and in Tokyo three years ago, then proceeded to take over, raining in a succession of buckets to get the Americans back on track. LeBron James provided scoring support with 21 points, with Jrue Holiday adding 15 points and Devin Booker finishing on 12. Denver star Nikola Jokic led the Serbia scoring with 20 points. The USA are the overwhelming favourites for the Olympic crown and have arrived in France with a squad featuring a galaxy of NBA stars led by the likes of James, Durant and Stephen Curry. They face South Sudan in their second group game on Wednesday before wrapping up the first round in Lille against Puerto Rico next Saturday. On Sunday's evidence Golden State coach Steve Kerr's squad will take some stopping when the 12-team tournament moves to Paris for the knockout rounds on August 6. Serbia, led by three-time NBA Most Valuable Player Jokic, made a fast start in Sunday's clash at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium in Lille, sprinting into an early 10-2 lead. But the arrival of Durant from the bench galvanised the US line-up, and once the Americans found their shooting touch the result was never in doubt. Durant was welcomed into the game with a blatant body check by Vasilije Micic which sent the 6ft 11in (2.11m) 35-year-old sprawling to the hardwood. Durant, however, took the Serbian physicality in stride and tormented the Europeans with an exhibition of flawless shooting to help the USA pull clear 25-20 at the end of the first quarter. Durant put the seal on the second quarter with a superb jump shot to leave the Americans up 58-49 at the break, and the champions never looked like relinquishing their grip on the game thereafter as they motored to victory. (Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Paris Olympics 2024: Durant stars on return from injury as Team USA begins basketball gold defence with win

Kevin Durant, who missed all five of the USA's warm-up games with a calf strain, practised on Wednesday upon the team's arrival in France ahead of the defence of their Olympic basketball title.

The Phoenix Suns star, a former NBA MVP and three-time Olympic gold medallist, suffered the injury in June, but coach Steve Kerr has said there was no thought of replacing Durant on the roster.

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"The plan is for him to get in the scrimmage and see how he handles that," Kerr told reporters in Lille after the team held an hour-long practice session.

"He looked good today and he did everything, he got a lot of shots up and told me he's feeling pretty good."

Durant, 35, missed the win over Canada earlier this month as well as the two exhibition games in Abu Dhabi. He was deemed not quite ready to return for the two most recent games in London either.

"It starts with the scrimmage tomorrow and we'll see what the training staff says after that," Kerr said of the plan for easing Durant back into action.

The Suns and Durant's representatives will also be involved in any decision-making, Kerr insisted.

"This is not going to be like us going out and saying, 'Hey, let's just throw him out there.'"

Whether or not Durant will feature in Team USA's tournament opener against Serbia remains unclear, but Kerr can call upon LeBron James who is back at the Olympics for the first time since 2012.

James is set for his fourth Games appearance in Paris, where will he serve as the United States flagbearer alongside tennis star Coco Gauff in Friday's opening ceremony on the Seine.

"I just like coaching him rather than coaching against him, he's incredible and it's so fun to see him up close and get to know him a little bit and watch him with his team-mates," said Kerr.

"I mean there's a reason he's LeBron James. To see him at 39 doing everything he's doing, dominating games, leading practices, setting an example for everybody, he's incredible."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Kevin Durant, who missed all five of the USA's warm-up games with a calf strain, practised on Wednesday upon the team's arrival in France ahead of the defence of their Olympic basketball title.

Kevin Durant, who missed all five of the USA's warm-up games with a calf strain, practised on Wednesday upon the team's arrival in France ahead of the defence of their Olympic basketball title. The Phoenix Suns star, a former NBA MVP and three-time Olympic gold medallist, suffered the injury in June, but coach Steve Kerr has said there was no thought of replacing Durant on the roster. Also Read: Mattia Binotto to lead Audi F1 team after Andreas Seidl and Oliver Hoffmann's exit in major overhaul "The plan is for him to get in the scrimmage and see how he handles that," Kerr told reporters in Lille after the team held an hour-long practice session. "He looked good today and he did everything, he got a lot of shots up and told me he's feeling pretty good." Durant, 35, missed the win over Canada earlier this month as well as the two exhibition games in Abu Dhabi. He was deemed not quite ready to return for the two most recent games in London either. "It starts with the scrimmage tomorrow and we'll see what the training staff says after that," Kerr said of the plan for easing Durant back into action. The Suns and Durant's representatives will also be involved in any decision-making, Kerr insisted. "This is not going to be like us going out and saying, 'Hey, let's just throw him out there.'" Whether or not Durant will feature in Team USA's tournament opener against Serbia remains unclear, but Kerr can call upon LeBron James who is back at the Olympics for the first time since 2012. James is set for his fourth Games appearance in Paris, where will he serve as the United States flagbearer alongside tennis star Coco Gauff in Friday's opening ceremony on the Seine. "I just like coaching him rather than coaching against him, he's incredible and it's so fun to see him up close and get to know him a little bit and watch him with his team-mates," said Kerr. "I mean there's a reason he's LeBron James. To see him at 39 doing everything he's doing, dominating games, leading practices, setting an example for everybody, he's incredible." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Paris Olympics 2024: Kevin Durant feeling 'pretty good' as Team USA aims basketball medal

USA men's basketball team head coach Steve Kerr has downplayed Kevin Durant's calf injury that has kept the triple Olympic gold medallist from training with the group ahead of the Paris Games.

Team USA touched down in Abu Dhabi on Friday ahead of two scheduled exhibition games against Australia (July 15) and Serbia (July 17) as they ramp up their preparations for the Olympics.

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Durant, who suffered a calf strain two weeks ago, was present at Saturday's session at the New York University Abu Dhabi campus but once again did not join his teammates in practice.

Kerr remains unconcerned, though, and says they have not discussed any contingency plans to replace the Phoenix Suns forward on the roster.

"He won't practise with the team today, he'll continue to do individual work," Kerr told reporters in the UAE capital on Saturday.

"I know there's still a couple of weeks before we have to make a decision roster-wise, so we're just taking it day by day."

"It's not something we've even discussed at this point," Kerr said when asked about a back-up plan. "Because we feel good that he's going to be okay, it's just day to day."

<h2>- 'True leader' -</h2>

USA Basketball have put together a 'super-team' for these &nbsp;Olympic Games that includes LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Durant, Anthony Davis, Anthony Edwards, and recently-crowned NBA champions Jayson Tatum and Jrue Holiday of the Boston Celtics.

But they have already had to make a replacement in the squad, bringing in a third Celtic, Derrick White, to take the spot of Kawhi Leonard, who left training camp last Wednesday in Las Vegas.

The Americans are playing five friendly games in the build-up to Paris, the first of which saw them defeat Canada 86-72 on Wednesday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Joel Embiid, the 2023 NBA MVP, fouled out midway through the third quarter but Kerr is certain the Philadelphia 76ers centre will be up for the task of guarding all the bigs they come up against at the Olympics.

"Joel will be fine. He's going to get into the rhythm and the flow," he assured. "It always takes big guys a little bit longer to get into flow in training."

James is playing under Kerr for the first time in his career and described the Golden State Warriors coach as a "true leader and true student of the game".

Chasing a third Olympic gold medal and fourth overall, James, 39, is the oldest player on the roster.

Donning a USA jersey for the first time in 12 years, James is keen to share his experience with the younger players on the team, especially knowing that this will be his final Games.

"It's always a responsibility that you should hold with honour and being able to give back to the younger generation because they have to keep going when we're done," said James.&nbsp;

"So it's definitely a responsibility for myself, KD, and Steph to be able to just show them the ropes."

Boasting their most star-studded squad since the fabled 1992 'Dream Team', USA are gunning for a fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal and 17th men's title at the Games overall.

After completing their exhibition games schedule in Abu Dhabi and London, the Americans will kick off their Olympics title defence against their Group C rivals Serbia in Lille on July 28 before facing South Sudan on July 31 and Puerto Rico on August 3.

(Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

USA men's basketball team head coach Steve Kerr has downplayed Kevin Durant's calf injury that has kept the triple Olympic gold medallist from training with the group ahead of the Paris Games.

USA men's basketball team head coach Steve Kerr has downplayed Kevin Durant's calf injury that has kept the triple Olympic gold medallist from training with the group ahead of the Paris Games. Team USA touched down in Abu Dhabi on Friday ahead of two scheduled exhibition games against Australia (July 15) and Serbia (July 17) as they ramp up their preparations for the Olympics. Also Read: Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker calls out Serena Williams for ESPY roast Durant, who suffered a calf strain two weeks ago, was present at Saturday's session at the New York University Abu Dhabi campus but once again did not join his teammates in practice. Kerr remains unconcerned, though, and says they have not discussed any contingency plans to replace the Phoenix Suns forward on the roster. "He won't practise with the team today, he'll continue to do individual work," Kerr told reporters in the UAE capital on Saturday. "I know there's still a couple of weeks before we have to make a decision roster-wise, so we're just taking it day by day." "It's not something we've even discussed at this point," Kerr said when asked about a back-up plan. "Because we feel good that he's going to be okay, it's just day to day." - 'True leader' - USA Basketball have put together a 'super-team' for these Olympic Games that includes LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Durant, Anthony Davis, Anthony Edwards, and recently-crowned NBA champions Jayson Tatum and Jrue Holiday of the Boston Celtics. But they have already had to make a replacement in the squad, bringing in a third Celtic, Derrick White, to take the spot of Kawhi Leonard, who left training camp last Wednesday in Las Vegas. The Americans are playing five friendly games in the build-up to Paris, the first of which saw them defeat Canada 86-72 on Wednesday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Joel Embiid, the 2023 NBA MVP, fouled out midway through the third quarter but Kerr is certain the Philadelphia 76ers centre will be up for the task of guarding all the bigs they come up against at the Olympics. "Joel will be fine. He's going to get into the rhythm and the flow," he assured. "It always takes big guys a little bit longer to get into flow in training." James is playing under Kerr for the first time in his career and described the Golden State Warriors coach as a "true leader and true student of the game". Chasing a third Olympic gold medal and fourth overall, James, 39, is the oldest player on the roster. Donning a USA jersey for the first time in 12 years, James is keen to share his experience with the younger players on the team, especially knowing that this will be his final Games. "It's always a responsibility that you should hold with honour and being able to give back to the younger generation because they have to keep going when we're done," said James. "So it's definitely a responsibility for myself, KD, and Steph to be able to just show them the ropes." Boasting their most star-studded squad since the fabled 1992 'Dream Team', USA are gunning for a fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal and 17th men's title at the Games overall. After completing their exhibition games schedule in Abu Dhabi and London, the Americans will kick off their Olympics title defence against their Group C rivals Serbia in Lille on July 28 before facing South Sudan on July 31 and Puerto Rico on August 3. (Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Paris Olympics 2024: Coach Kerr confident of Durant 'going to be okay' as Team USA chase 17th basketball gold

Phoenix star Kevin Durant scored 39 points and thwarted Utah's Lauri Markkanen at the final buzzer on Sunday as the Suns beat the Jazz 140-137 in an NBA double-overtime thriller. Durant added eight rebounds and 10 assists while Devin Booker scored 26 points for the Suns. Markkanen led Utah with 38 points and grabbed 17 rebounds.

Durant scored eight points in the second overtime, which the Suns led 138-135 with 43.2 seconds left. Markkanen's layup sliced the deficit to one but Booker drained two free throws to put Phoenix up 140-137 with nine-tenths of a second left. Markkanen had a last chance, with officials initially ruling he was fouled by Durant on a failed three-point attempt. But that call was overturned on review and the Suns had the win. Utah had trailed much of the night before Markkanen forced the first overtime with a layup with 20.3 seconds left in regulation.

Phoenix jumped to a 123-118 lead in the first extra session, but Utah clawed back and Collin Sexton forced a second overtime with a putback layup. Durant notched his 12th straight game with 25 or more points, the longest such streak in Suns history.

&nbsp;Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-phoenix-suns-kevin-durant-goes-past-moses-malone-to-become-10th-all-time-point-scorer-lebron-james-reacts-665464">Phoenix Suns' Kevin Durant goes past Moses Malone to become 10th all-time point scorer, LeBron James reacts</a>

"I'm just trying to stay prepared on off days and before games, just trying to follow the game plan to execute as much as I can and play with a calm and free spirit," Durant said. The Los Angeles Lakers, fueled by a season-high 37 points from superstar LeBron James, held off the Houston Rockets 105-104.

Austin Reaves, fed by James, drilled a three-pointer to put the Lakers up 103-100 with 24.2 seconds to play. But Alperen Sengun's layup tied it up at 104-104 with four seconds left. James, fouled under the rim, made one of two free throws to clinch it.

James added six rebounds and eight assists and Anthony Davis scored 27 points with 10 rebounds. Reaves finished with 17 points off the bench -- a key contribution on a night when Lakers starters Cam Reddish, Taurean Prince and D'Angelo Russell struggled offensively. The Boston Celtics also had a narrow escape, stretching their winning streak to six games with a 102-100 victory over the Grizzlies in Memphis.

A back-and-forth battle featuring 18 lead changes saw the Celtics survive when Kristaps Porzingis drove for a go-ahead dunk with one minute, one second remaining then blocked Ziaire Williams's last-gasp attempt at the buzzer. Porzingis led the Celtics with 26 points, pulling down eight rebounds and blocking six shots.

<h2>Embiid leads Sixers&nbsp;</h2>

Elsewhere, the short-handed Cleveland Cavaliers shocked the NBA champion Denver Nuggets 121-109 as frustrated Nuggets star Nikola Jokic battled foul trouble and ended the game watching from the bench. Darius Garland led Cleveland with 26 points and rookie Craig Porter Jr. added a career-high 21 to help the Cavs to a third straight victory despite the absence of star guard Donovan Mitchell and top reserve Caris LeVert.

Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Jokic, shouldering a big load with star teammate Jamal Murray still sidelined by a strained hamstring, finished with 18 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists. Reigning NBA MVP Joel Embiid needed just three quarters to score 32 points with 12 rebounds and nine assists, powering the Philadelphia 76ers to a 121-99 victory over the Nets in Brooklyn.

Tyrese Maxey scored 25 points and handed out 10 assists for the Sixers, who led 61-49 at halftime and never trailed the rest of the way. With the game in hand, Embiid sat out all of the fourth quarter. His nine assists were his season high, and he was unconcerned at missing out on a sixth career triple-double.

"I got told I was three assists away, but that's not where my head was at," Embiid said. "We just try to play the right way." In Toronto, the Raptors led by as many as 40 points on the way to a 142-113 victory over the Detroit Pistons. The Raptors set a franchise record with 44 assists as they handed the Pistons an 11th straight defeat.

Phoenix star Kevin Durant scored 39 points and thwarted Utah's Lauri Markkanen at the final buzzer on Sunday as the Suns beat the Jazz 140-137 in an NBA double-overtime thriller.

Phoenix star Kevin Durant scored 39 points and thwarted Utah's Lauri Markkanen at the final buzzer on Sunday as the Suns beat the Jazz 140-137 in an NBA double-overtime thriller. Durant added eight rebounds and 10 assists while Devin Booker scored 26 points for the Suns. Markkanen led Utah with 38 points and grabbed 17 rebounds. Durant scored eight points in the second overtime, which the Suns led 138-135 with 43.2 seconds left. Markkanen's layup sliced the deficit to one but Booker drained two free throws to put Phoenix up 140-137 with nine-tenths of a second left. Markkanen had a last chance, with officials initially ruling he was fouled by Durant on a failed three-point attempt. But that call was overturned on review and the Suns had the win. Utah had trailed much of the night before Markkanen forced the first overtime with a layup with 20.3 seconds left in regulation. Phoenix jumped to a 123-118 lead in the first extra session, but Utah clawed back and Collin Sexton forced a second overtime with a putback layup. Durant notched his 12th straight game with 25 or more points, the longest such streak in Suns history. Also Read: Phoenix Suns' Kevin Durant goes past Moses Malone to become 10th all-time point scorer, LeBron James reacts "I'm just trying to stay prepared on off days and before games, just trying to follow the game plan to execute as much as I can and play with a calm and free spirit," Durant said. The Los Angeles Lakers, fueled by a season-high 37 points from superstar LeBron James, held off the Houston Rockets 105-104. Austin Reaves, fed by James, drilled a three-pointer to put the Lakers up 103-100 with 24.2 seconds to play. But Alperen Sengun's layup tied it up at 104-104 with four seconds left. James, fouled under the rim, made one of two free throws to clinch it. James added six rebounds and eight assists and Anthony Davis scored 27 points with 10 rebounds. Reaves finished with 17 points off the bench -- a key contribution on a night when Lakers starters Cam Reddish, Taurean Prince and D'Angelo Russell struggled offensively. The Boston Celtics also had a narrow escape, stretching their winning streak to six games with a 102-100 victory over the Grizzlies in Memphis. A back-and-forth battle featuring 18 lead changes saw the Celtics survive when Kristaps Porzingis drove for a go-ahead dunk with one minute, one second remaining then blocked Ziaire Williams's last-gasp attempt at the buzzer. Porzingis led the Celtics with 26 points, pulling down eight rebounds and blocking six shots. Embiid leads Sixers Elsewhere, the short-handed Cleveland Cavaliers shocked the NBA champion Denver Nuggets 121-109 as frustrated Nuggets star Nikola Jokic battled foul trouble and ended the game watching from the bench. Darius Garland led Cleveland with 26 points and rookie Craig Porter Jr. added a career-high 21 to help the Cavs to a third straight victory despite the absence of star guard Donovan Mitchell and top reserve Caris LeVert. Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Jokic, shouldering a big load with star teammate Jamal Murray still sidelined by a strained hamstring, finished with 18 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists. Reigning NBA MVP Joel Embiid needed just three quarters to score 32 points with 12 rebounds and nine assists, powering the Philadelphia 76ers to a 121-99 victory over the Nets in Brooklyn. Tyrese Maxey scored 25 points and handed out 10 assists for the Sixers, who led 61-49 at halftime and never trailed the rest of the way. With the game in hand, Embiid sat out all of the fourth quarter. His nine assists were his season high, and he was unconcerned at missing out on a sixth career triple-double. "I got told I was three assists away, but that's not where my head was at," Embiid said. "We just try to play the right way." In Toronto, the Raptors led by as many as 40 points on the way to a 142-113 victory over the Detroit Pistons. The Raptors set a franchise record with 44 assists as they handed the Pistons an 11th straight defeat.

Kevin Durant's 39 points help Phoenix Suns defeat Utah Jazz in double over-time thriller

Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant is now 10th on the list of most points scored in NBA history, going past Moses Malone for the same. Durant now has 27,423 points in 17 NBA seasons while Malone had 27,409 after playing first two years for ABA. Durant needed 17 points to go past Malone and scored 30 points but the efforts wasn't enough for his team to beat Denver Nuggets which went on to win the game 119-111 on December 1. &nbsp;

Talking about the achievement, Durant said: "It's a long journey to be up there, mentioned with the greats. It takes a lot of work, a lot of preparation, a lot of people helping me get to this point."

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-watch--celtics-forward-jayson-tatum-ejected-during-game-vs-76ers-for-showdown-with-officials-665432">Celtics forward Jayson Tatum ejected during game vs 76ers for showdown with officials&nbsp;</a>

He also praised Malone for his contribution to the game and added: "As a basketball player, I think it's our job to go back and know the history of the game and who paved the way for us."

Durant is the only active player among top 25 players on the most points scored list with Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James being the other one. LeBron leads the list with 39,124 points. The LA Lakers star also congratulated Durant with a post on his official X handle. Look at the post below:&nbsp;

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TOP 10!!!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/KDTrey5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KDTrey5</a> CONGRATS 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
— LeBron James (@KingJames) <a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames/status/1730804521910382683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Other players among the top 10 are: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (38,397), Karl Malone (36,928), Kobe Bryant (33,643), Michael Jordan (32,292), Dirk Nowitzki (31,560), Wilt Chamberlain (31,419), Shaquille O'Neal (28,596) and Carmelo Anthony (28,289).

Durant has played for five different NBA teams including now-defunct Seattle SuperSonics which picked him as no. 2 overall in 2007 NBA draft. He then went on to play for the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2008 to 2015 before joining the Golden State Warriors for four years from 2016-19.

It was with the Warriors that Durant went on to win his two NBA championships (2017 and 2018). After being sidelined for 2019-20 season due to injury, Durant joined the Brooklyn Nets from 2020-22. He, however, left the Nets mid-season in 2022-23 season to join the Suns.

Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant is now 10th on the list of most points scored in NBA history, going past Moses Malone for the same. Durant now has 27,423 points in 17 NBA seasons while Malone had 27,409 after playing first two years for ABA.

Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant is now 10th on the list of most points scored in NBA history, going past Moses Malone for the same. Durant now has 27,423 points in 17 NBA seasons while Malone had 27,409 after playing first two years for ABA. Durant needed 17 points to go past Malone and scored 30 points but the efforts wasn't enough for his team to beat Denver Nuggets which went on to win the game 119-111 on December 1. Talking about the achievement, Durant said: "It's a long journey to be up there, mentioned with the greats. It takes a lot of work, a lot of preparation, a lot of people helping me get to this point." Also Watch: Celtics forward Jayson Tatum ejected during game vs 76ers for showdown with officials He also praised Malone for his contribution to the game and added: "As a basketball player, I think it's our job to go back and know the history of the game and who paved the way for us." Durant is the only active player among top 25 players on the most points scored list with Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James being the other one. LeBron leads the list with 39,124 points. The LA Lakers star also congratulated Durant with a post on his official X handle. Look at the post below: TOP 10!!!!! @KDTrey5 CONGRATS 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 — LeBron James (@KingJames) December 2, 2023 × Other players among the top 10 are: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (38,397), Karl Malone (36,928), Kobe Bryant (33,643), Michael Jordan (32,292), Dirk Nowitzki (31,560), Wilt Chamberlain (31,419), Shaquille O'Neal (28,596) and Carmelo Anthony (28,289). Durant has played for five different NBA teams including now-defunct Seattle SuperSonics which picked him as no. 2 overall in 2007 NBA draft. He then went on to play for the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2008 to 2015 before joining the Golden State Warriors for four years from 2016-19. It was with the Warriors that Durant went on to win his two NBA championships (2017 and 2018). After being sidelined for 2019-20 season due to injury, Durant joined the Brooklyn Nets from 2020-22. He, however, left the Nets mid-season in 2022-23 season to join the Suns.

Phoenix Suns' Kevin Durant goes past Moses Malone to become 10th all-time point scorer, LeBron James reacts

Kevin Durant scored 41 points to lead the Phoenix Suns over Detroit and former Suns coach Monty Williams on Sunday (Nov 5)&nbsp;while&nbsp;Britain's OG Anunoby sparked Toronto's stunning&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;rally at San Antonio. Toronto made a 22-point fightback to beat the Spurs 123-116 in overtime while the Cleveland Cavaliers sparkled as well, snapping a 12-game regular-season losing streak to Golden State dating to Christmas 2016.

Durant added five assists, four rebounds, three blocked shots and a steal to power the Suns past the host Pistons 120-106. "He was terrific, scored the ball every way you can, really wants it," Suns coach Frank Vogel said. "Just a really terrific performance. He's really good at basketball and he showed it tonight."

The Suns outscored Detroit in every quarter as Eric Gordon contributed 21 points and eight assists for Phoenix, which snapped a three-game losing skid. "We're excited because we finally got a win," Durant said. Cade Cunningham led Detroit with 26 points in the first regular-season matchup between the Suns and their former coach Williams.

After Williams was fired as the Suns' coach following a second-round playoff exit last season, Detroit signed him to a six-year deal worth $78.5 million. The Suns were without Bradley Beal, sidelined by back spasms, and Devin Booker, out with a calf strain.

<h2>Raptors rally</h2>

At Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell scored 31 points and Darius Garland added 24 to power the Cavaliers over Golden State 115-104. "The biggest thing for us is that we put together a full game," Mitchell said.

"We fought hard. That's a tough team. They have a lot of guys who have won championship rings and we're trying to get to that level. We've got to continue this momentum."

Evan Mobley added a game-high 16 rebounds for the Cavs. "He was dominant," Mitchell said.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japanese-university-scraps-team-for-alleged-possession-of-drug-664543">Japanese University scraps team for alleged possession of drug</a>

Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 28 points, hitting 7-of-11 shots from 3-point range, while Draymond Green added 18 points for Golden State, which saw a five-game win streak ended. At San Antonio, 26-year-old English forward Anunoby scored 24 points for the Raptors, hitting a career-best seven 3-pointers to spark a shocking comeback over star French rookie Victor Wembanyama's Spurs.

Scottie Barnes sparkled for Toronto with a game-high 30 points, 11 rebounds, six assists, three steals and three blocked shots. Anunoby sank the tying basket off a rebound with one second remaining to send the game into overtime at 110-110. His 3-pointer in the extra session game Toronto a 118-112 edge.

German guard Dennis Schroder added 24 points for the Raptors. Keldon Johnson led San Antonio with 26 points while Zach Collins added 21 points and 11 rebounds and Wembanyama contributed 20 points, nine rebounds, five blocked shots and four assists for the Spurs.

<h2>Memphis finally wins</h2>

Desmond Bane scored 30 points and Jaren Jackson added 27 to spark previously winless Memphis to victory, the Grizzlies improving to 1-6 with a 112-100 triumph at Portland. At Dallas, Slovenian guard Luka Doncic had 23 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists to spark the Dallas Mavericks over Charlotte 124-118.

Kyrie Irving had 18 points and 10 assists for the Mavs, 5-1 overall and 3-0 at home, while Grant Williams scored 18 points and Dereck Lively added 15 points and 14 rebounds. LaMelo Ball led the Hornets with a triple-double of 30 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds.

Kevin Durant scored 41 points to lead the Phoenix Suns over Detroit and former Suns coach Monty Williams on Sunday (Nov 5) while Britain's OG Anunoby sparked Toronto's stunning NBA rally at San Antonio.

Kevin Durant scored 41 points to lead the Phoenix Suns over Detroit and former Suns coach Monty Williams on Sunday (Nov 5) while Britain's OG Anunoby sparked Toronto's stunning NBA rally at San Antonio. Toronto made a 22-point fightback to beat the Spurs 123-116 in overtime while the Cleveland Cavaliers sparkled as well, snapping a 12-game regular-season losing streak to Golden State dating to Christmas 2016. Durant added five assists, four rebounds, three blocked shots and a steal to power the Suns past the host Pistons 120-106. "He was terrific, scored the ball every way you can, really wants it," Suns coach Frank Vogel said. "Just a really terrific performance. He's really good at basketball and he showed it tonight." The Suns outscored Detroit in every quarter as Eric Gordon contributed 21 points and eight assists for Phoenix, which snapped a three-game losing skid. "We're excited because we finally got a win," Durant said. Cade Cunningham led Detroit with 26 points in the first regular-season matchup between the Suns and their former coach Williams. After Williams was fired as the Suns' coach following a second-round playoff exit last season, Detroit signed him to a six-year deal worth $78.5 million. The Suns were without Bradley Beal, sidelined by back spasms, and Devin Booker, out with a calf strain. Raptors rally At Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell scored 31 points and Darius Garland added 24 to power the Cavaliers over Golden State 115-104. "The biggest thing for us is that we put together a full game," Mitchell said. "We fought hard. That's a tough team. They have a lot of guys who have won championship rings and we're trying to get to that level. We've got to continue this momentum." Evan Mobley added a game-high 16 rebounds for the Cavs. "He was dominant," Mitchell said. Also Read: Japanese University scraps team for alleged possession of drug Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 28 points, hitting 7-of-11 shots from 3-point range, while Draymond Green added 18 points for Golden State, which saw a five-game win streak ended. At San Antonio, 26-year-old English forward Anunoby scored 24 points for the Raptors, hitting a career-best seven 3-pointers to spark a shocking comeback over star French rookie Victor Wembanyama's Spurs. Scottie Barnes sparkled for Toronto with a game-high 30 points, 11 rebounds, six assists, three steals and three blocked shots. Anunoby sank the tying basket off a rebound with one second remaining to send the game into overtime at 110-110. His 3-pointer in the extra session game Toronto a 118-112 edge. German guard Dennis Schroder added 24 points for the Raptors. Keldon Johnson led San Antonio with 26 points while Zach Collins added 21 points and 11 rebounds and Wembanyama contributed 20 points, nine rebounds, five blocked shots and four assists for the Spurs. Memphis finally wins Desmond Bane scored 30 points and Jaren Jackson added 27 to spark previously winless Memphis to victory, the Grizzlies improving to 1-6 with a 112-100 triumph at Portland. At Dallas, Slovenian guard Luka Doncic had 23 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists to spark the Dallas Mavericks over Charlotte 124-118. Kyrie Irving had 18 points and 10 assists for the Mavs, 5-1 overall and 3-0 at home, while Grant Williams scored 18 points and Dereck Lively added 15 points and 14 rebounds. LaMelo Ball led the Hornets with a triple-double of 30 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds.

NBA: Kevin Durant leads Suns over Pistons, Cavaliers down Warriors

Two-time NBA champion Kevin Durant is all set to join the 2021 NBA finalist Phoenix Suns. The NBA superstar has been traded from the Brooklyn Nets, which acquired&nbsp;Cam Johnson, Mikal Bridges and four first-round picks in the deal. The Suns will also get forward TJ Warren alongside Durant.

Durant, touted as future Hall of Famer, didn't have a satisfying time with the Nets after joining them in 2019. He was sidelined for the entire 2019-20 season with an Achilles injury and eventually managed to win only one playoff series with the Nets.

Durant will be joining an already start-studded Suns team with Chris Paul, DeAndre Ayton and shooting guard Devin Booker already on Phoenix's roster. Although, with Durant onboard, the Suns, which are currently sixth in the Western Conference, will be stacked as one of the top contenders for the NBA title.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nba-kyrie-irving-joins-dallas-mavericks-559525">WATCH |&nbsp;NBA: Kyrie Irving Joins Dallas Mavericks</a>

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Phoenix will be eager to build a long-lasting group centred around Durant but for now the game is wait and watch. Notably, Kevin Durant won his two NBA championships back-to-back with the Golden State Warriors in 2018 and 2018 and was also named the finals MVP on both the occasions.

The news for Nets fans, however, isn't much pleasing. Brookly had high hopes from the trio of Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden. But the dreams of a title couldn't materialise. While Harden already left the Nets to join the Philadelphia 76ers last year, Irving will be joining the Dallas Mavericks. Coming to play-offs, the Nets are still in contention, sitting fifth in the Eastern Conference.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nike-severs-ties-with-kyrie-irving-cancels-next-shoe-launch-531416">Read more:&nbsp;Nike severs ties with Kyrie Irving over anti-Semitism controversy, cancels shoe launch</a>

In other deals before the Thursday deadline, Russell Westbrook has been traded to the Utah Jazz from the Los Angeles Lakers. The defending champions Golden State Warriors also brought back Gary Payton II in a deal with the Portland Trailblazers.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Two-time NBA champion Kevin Durant is all set to join the 2021 NBA finalist Phoenix Suns. The NBA superstar has been traded from the Brooklyn Nets, which acquired Cam Johnson, Mikal Bridges and four first-round picks in the deal.

Two-time NBA champion Kevin Durant is all set to join the 2021 NBA finalist Phoenix Suns. The NBA superstar has been traded from the Brooklyn Nets, which acquired Cam Johnson, Mikal Bridges and four first-round picks in the deal. The Suns will also get forward TJ Warren alongside Durant. Durant, touted as future Hall of Famer, didn't have a satisfying time with the Nets after joining them in 2019. He was sidelined for the entire 2019-20 season with an Achilles injury and eventually managed to win only one playoff series with the Nets. Durant will be joining an already start-studded Suns team with Chris Paul, DeAndre Ayton and shooting guard Devin Booker already on Phoenix's roster. Although, with Durant onboard, the Suns, which are currently sixth in the Western Conference, will be stacked as one of the top contenders for the NBA title. WATCH | NBA: Kyrie Irving Joins Dallas Mavericks × Phoenix will be eager to build a long-lasting group centred around Durant but for now the game is wait and watch. Notably, Kevin Durant won his two NBA championships back-to-back with the Golden State Warriors in 2018 and 2018 and was also named the finals MVP on both the occasions. The news for Nets fans, however, isn't much pleasing. Brookly had high hopes from the trio of Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden. But the dreams of a title couldn't materialise. While Harden already left the Nets to join the Philadelphia 76ers last year, Irving will be joining the Dallas Mavericks. Coming to play-offs, the Nets are still in contention, sitting fifth in the Eastern Conference. Read more: Nike severs ties with Kyrie Irving over anti-Semitism controversy, cancels shoe launch In other deals before the Thursday deadline, Russell Westbrook has been traded to the Utah Jazz from the Los Angeles Lakers. The defending champions Golden State Warriors also brought back Gary Payton II in a deal with the Portland Trailblazers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

NBA: Brooklyn Nets' Kevin Durant traded to Phoenix Suns

NBA superstar forward&nbsp;Kevin&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;is headed to the Phoenix Suns in a blockbuster trade from the Brooklyn Nets, US media reported on Wednesday. The Nets were trading&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;and TJ Warren in exchange for Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder and four first-round draft picks, according to US outlets, including ESPN, which cited unnamed sources. The move, on the eve of the NBA's trade deadline on Thursday, follows Brooklyn's trade of Kyrie Irving to the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, after Irving requested a move.

It also comes on the same day that US billionaire mortgage lender Mat Ishbia made his debut as the new owner of the Suns, promising that he was "not going to be sitting here counting the dollars. I'm going to look at how can we improve our team."

Durant&nbsp;-- a two-time NBA champion, two-time Finals MVP and a former NBA regular-season MVP -- had requested a trade in June, less than a year after he inked a four-year, $198 million contract extension with the Nets. The 34-year-old had reportedly grown frustrated with the direction of the franchise, who were swept in the first round of last season's playoffs despite having the star duo of&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;and Irving.

In August it became clear that&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;would remain in Brooklyn, but the club got off to a chaotic start this season. They sacked head coach Steve Nash in November after a 1-5 start to the season. Then Irving was suspended for eight games after a social media post publicizing a movie with anti-Semitic themes and declining to apologize.

Although the Nets fortunes had turned around under new coach Jacque Vaughn,&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;has been sidelined since January 8 because of a sprained ligament in his right knee. On Tuesday, Vaughn told reporters that&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;"had a really good report" in his latest medical evaluation, although the team had offered no timeline on when he would return to the court.

Durant&nbsp;was averaging 29.7 points per game on 55.9 percent shooting, 6.7 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.5 blocks per game this season. He was named an All-Star Game team captain as the top vote-getter in the Eastern Conference but will not be able to play in the game on February 19.

<h2>- Conference rivals -</h2>

The mercurial Irving, who reportedly asked out of Brooklyn after failing to agree on a contract extension, made his Mavericks debut on Wednesday, scoring 24 points in a victory over the Los Angeles Clippers.

Irving, asked about the&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;trade after the Mavs game, said he was looking forward to taking on his good friend as a Western Conference rival. "I love the competition now that we can be in the same conference," Irving said. "That's what I'm looking forward to. Everything else and in the in-between, I'm just glad that he got out of there."

Durant&nbsp;and Irving both arrived in Brooklyn in 2019 aiming to form a "super team" along with James Harden -- who was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers shortly before the trade deadline last year. Amid injuries, controversies and simple lack of chemistry, Brooklyn's "Big Three" never advanced past the second round of the playoffs together.

Durant&nbsp;will now join veteran star Chris Paul and Devin Booker in Phoenix in a bid to claim the third championship ring of his career, after he won two with the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and 2018. Irving's move to Dallas started the trade dominos falling in earnest. In addition to the&nbsp;Durant&nbsp;trade, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly poised to trade Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz in a three-team deal that will bring Minnesota's D'Angelo Russell to the Lakers, US media reported on Wednesday.

NBA superstar forward Kevin Durant is headed to the Phoenix Suns in a blockbuster trade from the Brooklyn Nets, US media reported on Wednesday. The Nets were trading Durant and TJ Warren in exchange for Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder and four first-round draft picks, according to US outlets, including ESPN, which cited unnamed sources.

NBA superstar forward Kevin Durant is headed to the Phoenix Suns in a blockbuster trade from the Brooklyn Nets, US media reported on Wednesday. The Nets were trading Durant and TJ Warren in exchange for Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder and four first-round draft picks, according to US outlets, including ESPN, which cited unnamed sources. The move, on the eve of the NBA's trade deadline on Thursday, follows Brooklyn's trade of Kyrie Irving to the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, after Irving requested a move. It also comes on the same day that US billionaire mortgage lender Mat Ishbia made his debut as the new owner of the Suns, promising that he was "not going to be sitting here counting the dollars. I'm going to look at how can we improve our team." Durant -- a two-time NBA champion, two-time Finals MVP and a former NBA regular-season MVP -- had requested a trade in June, less than a year after he inked a four-year, $198 million contract extension with the Nets. The 34-year-old had reportedly grown frustrated with the direction of the franchise, who were swept in the first round of last season's playoffs despite having the star duo of Durant and Irving. In August it became clear that Durant would remain in Brooklyn, but the club got off to a chaotic start this season. They sacked head coach Steve Nash in November after a 1-5 start to the season. Then Irving was suspended for eight games after a social media post publicizing a movie with anti-Semitic themes and declining to apologize. Although the Nets fortunes had turned around under new coach Jacque Vaughn, Durant has been sidelined since January 8 because of a sprained ligament in his right knee. On Tuesday, Vaughn told reporters that Durant "had a really good report" in his latest medical evaluation, although the team had offered no timeline on when he would return to the court. Durant was averaging 29.7 points per game on 55.9 percent shooting, 6.7 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.5 blocks per game this season. He was named an All-Star Game team captain as the top vote-getter in the Eastern Conference but will not be able to play in the game on February 19. - Conference rivals - The mercurial Irving, who reportedly asked out of Brooklyn after failing to agree on a contract extension, made his Mavericks debut on Wednesday, scoring 24 points in a victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. Irving, asked about the Durant trade after the Mavs game, said he was looking forward to taking on his good friend as a Western Conference rival. "I love the competition now that we can be in the same conference," Irving said. "That's what I'm looking forward to. Everything else and in the in-between, I'm just glad that he got out of there." Durant and Irving both arrived in Brooklyn in 2019 aiming to form a "super team" along with James Harden -- who was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers shortly before the trade deadline last year. Amid injuries, controversies and simple lack of chemistry, Brooklyn's "Big Three" never advanced past the second round of the playoffs together. Durant will now join veteran star Chris Paul and Devin Booker in Phoenix in a bid to claim the third championship ring of his career, after he won two with the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and 2018. Irving's move to Dallas started the trade dominos falling in earnest. In addition to the Durant trade, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly poised to trade Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz in a three-team deal that will bring Minnesota's D'Angelo Russell to the Lakers, US media reported on Wednesday.

Kevin Durant headed to Phoenix Suns in a blockbuster trade from Brooklyn Nets - Report

Two-time NBA champion and former league Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant on Thursday became the latest high-profile athlete to buy a Major League Pickleball (MLP) expansion team.

The Brooklyn Nets forward and business partner Rich Kleiman announced that their Thirty Five Ventures (35V) firm purchased a pickleball team that will compete in the 2023 MLP season.

MLP Founder and Chief Executive Officer Steve Kuhn said Durant, who led the Golden State Warriors to NBA titles in 2017 and 2018, and Kleiman would be "game-changing partners" for the league.

"They not only bring passion for the game, but also unrivaled expertise to help us to continue to grow," Kuhn said in a news release.

"We're especially excited about their plans to bring pickleball to underserved communities – something they have done with basketball for years."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-aston-villa-sack-manager-steven-gerrard-after-poor-start-to-season-527289">Aston Villa sack manager Steven Gerrard after poor start to season</a>

Other MLP team owners and partners include four-time NBA champion LeBron James, Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks Tom Brady and Drew Brees as well as former world number one tennis player Kim Clijsters.

The MLP will expand from 12 teams to 16 next season, with the number of events doubling from three to six and the total prize money set to surpass $2 million.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-breaks-silence-after-being-dropped-from-manchester-uniteds-squad-for-chelsea-clash-527319">Ronaldo breaks silence after being dropped from Manchester United's squad for Chelsea clash</a>

Invented in 1965, pickleball is a fast-paced paddle sport similar to tennis and badminton, though it is played on a smaller court with a net using a perforated plastic ball.

Two-time NBA champion and former league Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant on Thursday became the latest high-profile athlete to buy a Major League Pickleball (MLP) expansion team.

Two-time NBA champion and former league Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant on Thursday became the latest high-profile athlete to buy a Major League Pickleball (MLP) expansion team. The Brooklyn Nets forward and business partner Rich Kleiman announced that their Thirty Five Ventures (35V) firm purchased a pickleball team that will compete in the 2023 MLP season. MLP Founder and Chief Executive Officer Steve Kuhn said Durant, who led the Golden State Warriors to NBA titles in 2017 and 2018, and Kleiman would be "game-changing partners" for the league. "They not only bring passion for the game, but also unrivaled expertise to help us to continue to grow," Kuhn said in a news release. "We're especially excited about their plans to bring pickleball to underserved communities – something they have done with basketball for years." Also Read: Aston Villa sack manager Steven Gerrard after poor start to season Other MLP team owners and partners include four-time NBA champion LeBron James, Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks Tom Brady and Drew Brees as well as former world number one tennis player Kim Clijsters. The MLP will expand from 12 teams to 16 next season, with the number of events doubling from three to six and the total prize money set to surpass $2 million. Also Read: Ronaldo breaks silence after being dropped from Manchester United's squad for Chelsea clash Invented in 1965, pickleball is a fast-paced paddle sport similar to tennis and badminton, though it is played on a smaller court with a net using a perforated plastic ball.

NBA's Kevin Durant latest high-profile athlete to invest in pickleball

Early this month, NBA scouts and top decision-makers descended on Las Vegas to get a sneak peek into the future. The G League Ignite --&nbsp;an NBA developmental team in Nevada -- hosted the French pro team Metropolitan 92 in the first of twin exhibition games. Scoot Henderson made heads turn with his performance, but a 7 feet 4-inch teenager named Victor Wembanyama caught the attention of talent scouts.

Wembanyama, the 18-year-old French professional basketballer representing Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92, stands at 2.20 metres as a power forward for the Parisian side. He is regarded as one of the brightest&nbsp;talents going forward. In addition, he is touted to be the first pick in the 2023 NBA draft. He managed to increase the hype around him with&nbsp;his maiden appearance in the United States, scoring 37 points – comprising&nbsp;seven three-pointers from 11 attempts – along with belting five blocks.&nbsp;

Thus, Wembanyama's name continues to do the rounds in recent times. In late 2020, a video was posted on YouTube which displayed the young sensation's skills as he announced himself in the basketball fraternity. Given his height, use of the court and accuracy, it seems the teenager was always meant for the sport and possesses enough skills and talent to go the distance.

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IT IS ALL IN THE BLOOD

Born in the Paris suburb of Le Chesney in 2004, Wembanyama's father, Felix, was a long jumper (6 feet 6 inches). His mother, Elodie, is also over 6-feet and is a former basketball player and coach. As mentioned above, it is not only his height which makes him a tempting prospect. With a wingspan recently measured at 8 feet, Wembanyama is a formidable shot-blocker and rim protector and a&nbsp;lethal perimeter shooter as well.

BIG NAMES SHOWERING HUGE WORDS OF PRAISE

Nicola Alberani, the sporting director of French club SIG Strasbourg, is already gaga over Wembanyama. "It’s another game when he’s on the court,” he said as per The Guardian. “You think you can shoot, that he’s not that close, but then in reality he is so long, you don’t realise how close he is. And when he passes the ball, you can’t contest any pass. He is like an added point guard. When he shoots, he’s always wide open, because nobody can get there."

“I become a basketball fan when I watch him play. He’s a unique package of everything. As long as he can stay healthy, I really think he can be one of the best players that ever played the game."

'He's for sure a generational talent'

Kevin Durant has also joined in and recently said, as per si.com, "That type of talent and skill just puts a smile on your face if you play basketball. The evolution of the game has taken us this far. We got a 7'5" dude that's able to do everything on the court.&nbsp;It's inspiring to a lot of people." He added, "I heard a comment he said; somebody compared him to a few players in the league and he was like 'I think I'd do myself a disservice if I compared myself to one or two players. I'm going to take from everybody.' That's such a profound statement and made me a big fan of his."&nbsp;

LA Lakers' LeBron James lauded the youngster and said, "Everybody has been labeling this unicorn thing."&nbsp; 
 
"Everybody has been a unicorn for the last two years, but he's more like an alien. I've never seen -- no one has ever seen anyone as tall as he is, but as fluid and as graceful as he is out on the floor."

"... His ability to put the ball on the floor, shoot step-back jumpers out of the post, step-back 3s, catch-and-shoot 3s, block shots ... He's for sure a generational talent," he further asserted.

Early this month, NBA scouts and top decision-makers descended on Las Vegas to get a sneak peek into the future. The G League Ignite -- an NBA developmental team in Nevada -- hosted the French pro team Metropolitan 92 in the first of twin exhibition games.

Early this month, NBA scouts and top decision-makers descended on Las Vegas to get a sneak peek into the future. The G League Ignite -- an NBA developmental team in Nevada -- hosted the French pro team Metropolitan 92 in the first of twin exhibition games. Scoot Henderson made heads turn with his performance, but a 7 feet 4-inch teenager named Victor Wembanyama caught the attention of talent scouts. Wembanyama, the 18-year-old French professional basketballer representing Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92, stands at 2.20 metres as a power forward for the Parisian side. He is regarded as one of the brightest talents going forward. In addition, he is touted to be the first pick in the 2023 NBA draft. He managed to increase the hype around him with his maiden appearance in the United States, scoring 37 points – comprising seven three-pointers from 11 attempts – along with belting five blocks. Thus, Wembanyama's name continues to do the rounds in recent times. In late 2020, a video was posted on YouTube which displayed the young sensation's skills as he announced himself in the basketball fraternity. Given his height, use of the court and accuracy, it seems the teenager was always meant for the sport and possesses enough skills and talent to go the distance. × IT IS ALL IN THE BLOOD Born in the Paris suburb of Le Chesney in 2004, Wembanyama's father, Felix, was a long jumper (6 feet 6 inches). His mother, Elodie, is also over 6-feet and is a former basketball player and coach. As mentioned above, it is not only his height which makes him a tempting prospect. With a wingspan recently measured at 8 feet, Wembanyama is a formidable shot-blocker and rim protector and a lethal perimeter shooter as well. BIG NAMES SHOWERING HUGE WORDS OF PRAISE Nicola Alberani, the sporting director of French club SIG Strasbourg, is already gaga over Wembanyama. "It’s another game when he’s on the court,” he said as per The Guardian. “You think you can shoot, that he’s not that close, but then in reality he is so long, you don’t realise how close he is. And when he passes the ball, you can’t contest any pass. He is like an added point guard. When he shoots, he’s always wide open, because nobody can get there." “I become a basketball fan when I watch him play. He’s a unique package of everything. As long as he can stay healthy, I really think he can be one of the best players that ever played the game." 'He's for sure a generational talent' Kevin Durant has also joined in and recently said, as per si.com, "That type of talent and skill just puts a smile on your face if you play basketball. The evolution of the game has taken us this far. We got a 7'5" dude that's able to do everything on the court. It's inspiring to a lot of people." He added, "I heard a comment he said; somebody compared him to a few players in the league and he was like 'I think I'd do myself a disservice if I compared myself to one or two players. I'm going to take from everybody.' That's such a profound statement and made me a big fan of his." LA Lakers' LeBron James lauded the youngster and said, "Everybody has been labeling this unicorn thing." "Everybody has been a unicorn for the last two years, but he's more like an alien. I've never seen -- no one has ever seen anyone as tall as he is, but as fluid and as graceful as he is out on the floor." "... His ability to put the ball on the floor, shoot step-back jumpers out of the post, step-back 3s, catch-and-shoot 3s, block shots ... He's for sure a generational talent," he further asserted.

Victor Wembanyama: The 18-year-old 'generational talent' set to light up NBA

All-Star forward Kevin Durant is set to stay with the Brooklyn Nets after a meeting with head coach Steve Nash and the franchise's owners, the team announced on Tuesday.

Durant, a two-times NBA champion and twice Finals MVP, had requested a trade at the end of June before free agency, with the 12-times All-Star linked to teams such as the Boston Celtics, the Miami Heat and the Toronto Raptors.

"Steve Nash and I, together with (Nets co-owners) Joe Tsai and Clara Wu Tsai, met with Kevin Durant and (his manager) Rich Kleiman in Los Angeles yesterday," Nets General Manager Sean Marks said in a statement.

"We have agreed to move forward with our partnership. We are focusing on basketball, with one collective goal in mind: build a lasting franchise to bring a championship to Brooklyn."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-disapproves-of-dennis-rodmans-planned-rescue-mission-for-basketball-star-brittney-griner-509494">US&nbsp;disapproves of Dennis Rodman's planned rescue mission for basketball star Brittney Griner</a>

Last year, Durant had signed a four-year, $198 million extension that begins this season. He was sixth on the list of the world's highest-paid athletes over the last year according to Forbes, earning $92 million in total earnings.

He averaged 29.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 6.4 assists in 55 games last season.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-army-to-assist-qatar-wth-security-during-fifa-world-cup-2022-509498">Pakistan Army to assist Qatar wth security during FIFA World Cup 2022</a>

Durant had joined Brooklyn as a free agent in 2019 alongside Kyrie Irving in a bid to form a championship winning team along with James Harden, who was later traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in a deal that brought Ben Simmons to the Nets. 
&nbsp;

All-Star forward Kevin Durant is set to stay with the Brooklyn Nets after a meeting with head coach Steve Nash and the franchise's owners, the team announced on Tuesday.

All-Star forward Kevin Durant is set to stay with the Brooklyn Nets after a meeting with head coach Steve Nash and the franchise's owners, the team announced on Tuesday. Durant, a two-times NBA champion and twice Finals MVP, had requested a trade at the end of June before free agency, with the 12-times All-Star linked to teams such as the Boston Celtics, the Miami Heat and the Toronto Raptors. "Steve Nash and I, together with (Nets co-owners) Joe Tsai and Clara Wu Tsai, met with Kevin Durant and (his manager) Rich Kleiman in Los Angeles yesterday," Nets General Manager Sean Marks said in a statement. "We have agreed to move forward with our partnership. We are focusing on basketball, with one collective goal in mind: build a lasting franchise to bring a championship to Brooklyn." Also Read: US disapproves of Dennis Rodman's planned rescue mission for basketball star Brittney Griner Last year, Durant had signed a four-year, $198 million extension that begins this season. He was sixth on the list of the world's highest-paid athletes over the last year according to Forbes, earning $92 million in total earnings. He averaged 29.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 6.4 assists in 55 games last season. Also Read: Pakistan Army to assist Qatar wth security during FIFA World Cup 2022 Durant had joined Brooklyn as a free agent in 2019 alongside Kyrie Irving in a bid to form a championship winning team along with James Harden, who was later traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in a deal that brought Ben Simmons to the Nets.

Kevin Durant drops trade demand, set to stay with Brooklyn Nets after meeting with owners and Steve Nash

Kevin Durant, a two-time Olympic gold medallist will lead the 12-member U.S. Men`s Basketball Team at the Olympic Games in Tokyo starting from July 23.

The U.S. roster features the return of Olympic gold medalists Durant, Green, and Love. Durant and Green were members of the 2016 U.S. Olympic gold medalist squad and Durant and Love were 2012 Olympic gold medalists.

Durant and Love were also part of the 2010 USA team that went 9-0 and captured the FIBA World Cup title, and Middleton and Tatum were members of the 2019 USA World Cup Team.

With his selection to the U.S. Olympic Team, Durant becomes just the fourth United States male basketball player selected to three or more Olympic teams. Carmelo Anthony (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016) has represented and medaled for a USA men`s record four Olympics, while LeBron James (2004, 2008, 2012) and David Robinson (1988, 1992, 1996) each have three Olympic medals in as many appearances.

The average age of the 12 U.S. players at the conclusion of the Tokyo Olympics (August 8, 2021) will be 28.2, the third oldest U.S. Men`s Olympic Team in history, behind the 1996 Atlanta Olympics squad (29.4) and the 1992 Barcelona Olympics Team (29.0).

The U.S. men have collected a medal in all 18 Olympics in which they have competed, including 15 gold medals, one silver, and two bronze medals. The American men own an impressive 138-5 (.965 winning percentage) all-time record in Olympic action. Since NBA players began representing the United States in 1992, the USA is 53-3 in seven Olympics, capturing six gold medals and one bronze medal. The USA currently enjoys a 25-game Olympic win streak that dates back to the bronze medal game of the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Selected for the U.S. Olympic Team 2020, which is seeking a fourth consecutive Olympic title, were: Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat), Bradley Beal (Washington Wizards), Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns), Kevin Durant(Brooklyn Nets), Jerami Grant (Detroit Pistons), Draymond Green (Golden State Warriors), Jrue Holiday (Milwaukee Bucks), Zach LaVine (Chicago Bulls), Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers), Kevin Love (Cleveland Cavaliers), Khris Middleton (Milwaukee Bucks), and Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics).

The USA coaching staff is led by head coach Gregg Popovich (San Antonio Spurs) with assistant coaches Steve Kerr (Golden State Warriors), Lloyd Pierce and Jay Wright (Villanova University), and Jerry Colangelo serving as the USA Men`s National Team managing director.&nbsp;

Kevin Durant, a two-time Olympic gold medallist will lead the 12-member U.S. Men`s Basketball Team at the Olympic Games in Tokyo starting from July 23. The U.S. roster features the return of Olympic gold medalists Durant, Green, and Love.

Kevin Durant, a two-time Olympic gold medallist will lead the 12-member U.S. Men`s Basketball Team at the Olympic Games in Tokyo starting from July 23. The U.S. roster features the return of Olympic gold medalists Durant, Green, and Love. Durant and Green were members of the 2016 U.S. Olympic gold medalist squad and Durant and Love were 2012 Olympic gold medalists. Durant and Love were also part of the 2010 USA team that went 9-0 and captured the FIBA World Cup title, and Middleton and Tatum were members of the 2019 USA World Cup Team. With his selection to the U.S. Olympic Team, Durant becomes just the fourth United States male basketball player selected to three or more Olympic teams. Carmelo Anthony (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016) has represented and medaled for a USA men`s record four Olympics, while LeBron James (2004, 2008, 2012) and David Robinson (1988, 1992, 1996) each have three Olympic medals in as many appearances. The average age of the 12 U.S. players at the conclusion of the Tokyo Olympics (August 8, 2021) will be 28.2, the third oldest U.S. Men`s Olympic Team in history, behind the 1996 Atlanta Olympics squad (29.4) and the 1992 Barcelona Olympics Team (29.0). The U.S. men have collected a medal in all 18 Olympics in which they have competed, including 15 gold medals, one silver, and two bronze medals. The American men own an impressive 138-5 (.965 winning percentage) all-time record in Olympic action. Since NBA players began representing the United States in 1992, the USA is 53-3 in seven Olympics, capturing six gold medals and one bronze medal. The USA currently enjoys a 25-game Olympic win streak that dates back to the bronze medal game of the 2004 Athens Olympics. Selected for the U.S. Olympic Team 2020, which is seeking a fourth consecutive Olympic title, were: Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat), Bradley Beal (Washington Wizards), Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns), Kevin Durant(Brooklyn Nets), Jerami Grant (Detroit Pistons), Draymond Green (Golden State Warriors), Jrue Holiday (Milwaukee Bucks), Zach LaVine (Chicago Bulls), Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers), Kevin Love (Cleveland Cavaliers), Khris Middleton (Milwaukee Bucks), and Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics). The USA coaching staff is led by head coach Gregg Popovich (San Antonio Spurs) with assistant coaches Steve Kerr (Golden State Warriors), Lloyd Pierce and Jay Wright (Villanova University), and Jerry Colangelo serving as the USA Men`s National Team managing director.

Tokyo Olympics: Kevin Durant to lead USA men's basketball team

James Harden scored 34 points, and Kevin Durant's 30 included the go-ahead three-pointer in the final minute as the NBA's new-look Brooklyn Nets beat the Milwaukee Bucks 125-123 on Monday.

Harden, playing his second game for Brooklyn since arriving in a blockbuster trade, added 12 assists.

Durant added six assists and nine rebounds as the Nets held off two-time defending NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks in a clash of Eastern Conference powers.

Antetokounmpo scored 34 points with 12 rebounds and seven assists for Milwaukee. Khris Middleton added 25 points -- but couldn't get a potential game-winning three-pointer to drop in the final second.

"That's a huge win for us," Harden said. "Not having a chance to practice, just going on the fly, we beat a really good Bucks team."

In a back-and-forth fourth quarter, the Nets trailed 122-123 when Harden missed a three-pointer but managed to corral the rebound and get the ball to Durant, who drained a three-pointer to put Brooklyn up 125-123 with 36.8 seconds remaining.

After Middleton missed a three-point attempt, Durant turned the ball over to give the Bucks one more chance, but Middleton missed again.

"It's a rejuvenation," Harden said of arriving in Brooklyn, who were without star guard Kyrie Irving for a seventh straight game. "This organization, the Brooklyn Nets, has welcomed me with open arms.

The game at Brooklyn's Barclays Arena was one of the marquee match-ups on the NBA's holiday slate honoring civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr.

Across town at Madison Square Garden, Julius Randle scored seven of his 21 points in the final 93 seconds as the New York Knicks held off Orlando 91-84.

Randle shot only 5-of-19 from the floor but added 17 rebounds, while R.J. Barrett had 22 points and 10 rebounds as the Knicks, who ripped Boston on Sunday, won on consecutive days for the first time in 41 tries over more than three years.

"Back-to-back is always tough for us," Randle said. "We had the lead the whole game, played well. They made a run. Stayed together.

"I couldn't throw a rock in the ocean but we got it done. It's a great win for us."

The Knicks led 19-13 after the first quarter and boosted the margin as high as 14 points early in the fourth. The Magic made a late charge but came up short in their sixth straight defeat.

<h2>- Hawks wear King jerseys -</h2>

In King's hometown, the Atlanta Hawks debuted special black jerseys with the initials MLK on the front in a 108-97 victory over visiting Minnesota.

The Hawks, who had lost six of their prior seven games, improved to 6-7 despite 24 turnovers, while the Timberwolves fell to 3-9 with their ninth loss in 10 games.

D'Angelo Russell scored 25 points to lead the Hawks, while Clint Capela added 23 points and 15 rebounds and Trae Young contributed 20 points and 13 assists for Atlanta.

De'Andre Hunter scored a game-high 31 points for the T-Wolves.

San Antonio rolled to a 125-104 victory at Portland behind 22 points from LaMarcus Aldridge, 20 points and 11 assists from DeMar DeRozan and 21 points each off the bench for Patty Mills and Rudy Gay.

The Miami Heat, missing Jimmy Butler due to Covid-19 safety protocols and Tyler Herro to neck spasms, bounced back from a 20-point loss to Detroit on Saturday with a 113-107 victory over the same Pistons team.

The Heat trailed the Pistons by 19 early, but unlike on Saturday, they were able to battle back with 28 points and 11 rebounds from Bam Adebayo, 22 points from guard Goran Dragic and 18 from Duncan Robinson.

James Harden scored 34 points, and Kevin Durant's 30 included the go-ahead three-pointer in the final minute as the NBA's new-look Brooklyn Nets beat the Milwaukee Bucks 125-123 on Monday.

James Harden scored 34 points, and Kevin Durant's 30 included the go-ahead three-pointer in the final minute as the NBA's new-look Brooklyn Nets beat the Milwaukee Bucks 125-123 on Monday. Harden, playing his second game for Brooklyn since arriving in a blockbuster trade, added 12 assists. Durant added six assists and nine rebounds as the Nets held off two-time defending NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks in a clash of Eastern Conference powers. Antetokounmpo scored 34 points with 12 rebounds and seven assists for Milwaukee. Khris Middleton added 25 points -- but couldn't get a potential game-winning three-pointer to drop in the final second. "That's a huge win for us," Harden said. "Not having a chance to practice, just going on the fly, we beat a really good Bucks team." In a back-and-forth fourth quarter, the Nets trailed 122-123 when Harden missed a three-pointer but managed to corral the rebound and get the ball to Durant, who drained a three-pointer to put Brooklyn up 125-123 with 36.8 seconds remaining. After Middleton missed a three-point attempt, Durant turned the ball over to give the Bucks one more chance, but Middleton missed again. "It's a rejuvenation," Harden said of arriving in Brooklyn, who were without star guard Kyrie Irving for a seventh straight game. "This organization, the Brooklyn Nets, has welcomed me with open arms. The game at Brooklyn's Barclays Arena was one of the marquee match-ups on the NBA's holiday slate honoring civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. Across town at Madison Square Garden, Julius Randle scored seven of his 21 points in the final 93 seconds as the New York Knicks held off Orlando 91-84. Randle shot only 5-of-19 from the floor but added 17 rebounds, while R.J. Barrett had 22 points and 10 rebounds as the Knicks, who ripped Boston on Sunday, won on consecutive days for the first time in 41 tries over more than three years. "Back-to-back is always tough for us," Randle said. "We had the lead the whole game, played well. They made a run. Stayed together. "I couldn't throw a rock in the ocean but we got it done. It's a great win for us." The Knicks led 19-13 after the first quarter and boosted the margin as high as 14 points early in the fourth. The Magic made a late charge but came up short in their sixth straight defeat. - Hawks wear King jerseys - In King's hometown, the Atlanta Hawks debuted special black jerseys with the initials MLK on the front in a 108-97 victory over visiting Minnesota. The Hawks, who had lost six of their prior seven games, improved to 6-7 despite 24 turnovers, while the Timberwolves fell to 3-9 with their ninth loss in 10 games. D'Angelo Russell scored 25 points to lead the Hawks, while Clint Capela added 23 points and 15 rebounds and Trae Young contributed 20 points and 13 assists for Atlanta. De'Andre Hunter scored a game-high 31 points for the T-Wolves. San Antonio rolled to a 125-104 victory at Portland behind 22 points from LaMarcus Aldridge, 20 points and 11 assists from DeMar DeRozan and 21 points each off the bench for Patty Mills and Rudy Gay. The Miami Heat, missing Jimmy Butler due to Covid-19 safety protocols and Tyler Herro to neck spasms, bounced back from a 20-point loss to Detroit on Saturday with a 113-107 victory over the same Pistons team. The Heat trailed the Pistons by 19 early, but unlike on Saturday, they were able to battle back with 28 points and 11 rebounds from Bam Adebayo, 22 points from guard Goran Dragic and 18 from Duncan Robinson.

Harden, Durant lead Nets past Bucks, Randle the hero for Knicks

From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020

Several of the NBA’s best players are preparing to come back after missing most or all of last season. The list of returnees includes two former Kia NBA Most Valuable Player Award winners and five players who were NBA All-Star selections as recently as two seasons ago.&nbsp;

• STEPHEN CURRY, GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (5 GP LAST SEASON): The two-time Kia NBA MVP led Golden State to three NBA championships and five consecutive NBA Finals appearances before last season’s extended absence (he returned in March and played one game before the season was paused). Curry needs five three-pointers to reach 2,500 for his career and is 66 threes from passing Reggie Miller for the second-most in NBA history. He is also poised to become the Warriors’ franchise leader in both points and assists this season.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-nba-to-super-bowl-heres-complete-list-of-winners-in-2020-350549" hreflang="en">From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020</a>

• KEVIN DURANT, BROOKLYN NETS (0 GP): The 10-time NBA AllStar and 2013-14 Kia NBA MVP is set for his first action since the 2019 NBA Finals. In three seasons with Golden State, Durant won two Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP awards and reached the NBA Finals three times. A four-time scoring champion, Durant has the sixth-highest scoring average in NBA history (27.0 ppg).&nbsp;

• BLAKE GRIFFIN, DETROIT PISTONS (18 GP): In 2018-19 (his first full season with Detroit), Griffin averaged a career-high 24.5 points, was named an NBA All-Star for the sixth time and earned All-NBA Third Team honors. He also made a career-high 189 three-pointers.&nbsp;

• KYRIE IRVING, BROOKLYN NETS (20 GP): Irving made a splash with 50 points in his first game as a Net, the highest-scoring debut in NBA history. He averaged 27.4 points in 20 games, which would have been a career-high over a full season. Before last season, Irving had been named an NBA All-Star six times in a seven-year span.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-mahomes-to-giannis-athletes-with-biggest-contracts-in-sporting-history-350214" hreflang="en">From Mahomes to Giannis: Athletes with biggest contracts in sporting history</a>

• KARL-ANTHONY TOWNS, MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (35 GP): Towns actually played more than half of Minnesota’s games last season, but he also had two extended absences, one of which sidelined him for the final 12 games. He averaged 26.5 points, 10.8 rebounds and 4.4 assists and shot 41.2 per cent from three-point range in 35 games. Towns was an NBA All-Star selection in 2017-18 and 2018-19.&nbsp;

• JOHN WALL, WASHINGTON WIZARDS (0 GP): Wall is poised to return two years after his last regular-season NBA game (Dec. 26, 2018). He made five consecutive NBA All-Star teams from 2014-18, a stretch during which he averaged at least 10.0 assists three times. This will be Wall’s 10th playing season with the Wizards, who selected him with the first overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft.

Several of the NBA’s best players are preparing to come back after missing most or all of last season. The list of returnees includes two former Kia NBA Most Valuable Player Award winners and five players who were NBA All-Star selections as recently as two seasons ago.

Several of the NBA’s best players are preparing to come back after missing most or all of last season. The list of returnees includes two former Kia NBA Most Valuable Player Award winners and five players who were NBA All-Star selections as recently as two seasons ago. • STEPHEN CURRY, GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (5 GP LAST SEASON): The two-time Kia NBA MVP led Golden State to three NBA championships and five consecutive NBA Finals appearances before last season’s extended absence (he returned in March and played one game before the season was paused). Curry needs five three-pointers to reach 2,500 for his career and is 66 threes from passing Reggie Miller for the second-most in NBA history. He is also poised to become the Warriors’ franchise leader in both points and assists this season. ALSO READ: From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020 • KEVIN DURANT, BROOKLYN NETS (0 GP): The 10-time NBA AllStar and 2013-14 Kia NBA MVP is set for his first action since the 2019 NBA Finals. In three seasons with Golden State, Durant won two Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP awards and reached the NBA Finals three times. A four-time scoring champion, Durant has the sixth-highest scoring average in NBA history (27.0 ppg). • BLAKE GRIFFIN, DETROIT PISTONS (18 GP): In 2018-19 (his first full season with Detroit), Griffin averaged a career-high 24.5 points, was named an NBA All-Star for the sixth time and earned All-NBA Third Team honors. He also made a career-high 189 three-pointers. • KYRIE IRVING, BROOKLYN NETS (20 GP): Irving made a splash with 50 points in his first game as a Net, the highest-scoring debut in NBA history. He averaged 27.4 points in 20 games, which would have been a career-high over a full season. Before last season, Irving had been named an NBA All-Star six times in a seven-year span. ALSO READ: From Mahomes to Giannis: Athletes with biggest contracts in sporting history • KARL-ANTHONY TOWNS, MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (35 GP): Towns actually played more than half of Minnesota’s games last season, but he also had two extended absences, one of which sidelined him for the final 12 games. He averaged 26.5 points, 10.8 rebounds and 4.4 assists and shot 41.2 per cent from three-point range in 35 games. Towns was an NBA All-Star selection in 2017-18 and 2018-19. • JOHN WALL, WASHINGTON WIZARDS (0 GP): Wall is poised to return two years after his last regular-season NBA game (Dec. 26, 2018). He made five consecutive NBA All-Star teams from 2014-18, a stretch during which he averaged at least 10.0 assists three times. This will be Wall’s 10th playing season with the Wizards, who selected him with the first overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft.

Top players back in action in NBA as fresh season awaits

Life has come a full circle for Kevin Durant. The last time he played in the NBA was in Game 5 of the 2018-19 NBA Finals as a member of the Golden State Warriors. Fast forward 18 months and the 32-year old is back from the Achilles’ tendon injury and will face the Warriors on the opening night of the 2020-21 season wearing the Brooklyn Nets’ jersey.

The two-time NBA champion said he has tried to be the best version of himself while returning to much-awaited on-court action. “Every drill that I’ve done, I’ve been going as hard as I could,” said Durant. “I’ve been in the league for 14 years. Even if I didn’t have an Achilles’, I probably wouldn’t be 100 percent. So the wear and tear over time, I guess, but I feel solid.”

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Achilles tendon injuries can be exhausting to come back from, but Durant didn’t let the long road back to recovery get to him. “It actually wasn’t that frustrating, to be honest. I enjoyed having a lot of ‘me time’ away from you all and the NBA life in general,” said Durant while speaking to reporters.

Before the injury stopped him in tracks, Durant was one of the most feared basketball players in the world winning two titles with the Warriors and the Finals MVP in both the championship runs. A few years before getting his championship rings, Durant had already established his credentials winning the League MVP in 2014 playing for Oklahoma City Thunder.

When asked if he was back to his MVP form, he shrugged off the question saying he was feeling good playing the sport and not thinking about the awards at the moment. But Durant admitted he would find it difficult to be judicious coming at the back of a long injury layoff. “I enjoy playing an if and when Coach tries to pull me out early unexpectedly, of course, I’m going to push back, but I know they have my best interest,” the Nets superstar said.

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Durant will form one of NBA’s blockbuster pairing with his friend Kyrie Irving that will look to dominate the Eastern Conference. “We both respect each other’s’ game, we know each other’s game inside out. We know what championship level basketball looks like,” he said.

But what if the duo became a trio with James Harden’s speculated move to Brooklyn. Durant wasn’t bothered. “Whatever happens, we have to be prepared for everything,” said Durant. When further probed on his role in getting the Houston Rockets cornerstone to his team, Durant said these are all made up stories. “I heard all the noise and James potentially wanted to come to the Nets. Nothing is set in stone till it is set in stone,” Durant concluded.

Life has come a full circle for Kevin Durant. The last time he played in the NBA was in Game 5 of the 2018-19 NBA Finals as a member of the Golden State Warriors.

Life has come a full circle for Kevin Durant. The last time he played in the NBA was in Game 5 of the 2018-19 NBA Finals as a member of the Golden State Warriors. Fast forward 18 months and the 32-year old is back from the Achilles’ tendon injury and will face the Warriors on the opening night of the 2020-21 season wearing the Brooklyn Nets’ jersey. The two-time NBA champion said he has tried to be the best version of himself while returning to much-awaited on-court action. “Every drill that I’ve done, I’ve been going as hard as I could,” said Durant. “I’ve been in the league for 14 years. Even if I didn’t have an Achilles’, I probably wouldn’t be 100 percent. So the wear and tear over time, I guess, but I feel solid.” ALSO READ: PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism Achilles tendon injuries can be exhausting to come back from, but Durant didn’t let the long road back to recovery get to him. “It actually wasn’t that frustrating, to be honest. I enjoyed having a lot of ‘me time’ away from you all and the NBA life in general,” said Durant while speaking to reporters. Before the injury stopped him in tracks, Durant was one of the most feared basketball players in the world winning two titles with the Warriors and the Finals MVP in both the championship runs. A few years before getting his championship rings, Durant had already established his credentials winning the League MVP in 2014 playing for Oklahoma City Thunder. When asked if he was back to his MVP form, he shrugged off the question saying he was feeling good playing the sport and not thinking about the awards at the moment. But Durant admitted he would find it difficult to be judicious coming at the back of a long injury layoff. “I enjoy playing an if and when Coach tries to pull me out early unexpectedly, of course, I’m going to push back, but I know they have my best interest,” the Nets superstar said. ALSO READ: Ronaldo scores twice as Juve crush Messi's troubled Barcelona Durant will form one of NBA’s blockbuster pairing with his friend Kyrie Irving that will look to dominate the Eastern Conference. “We both respect each other’s’ game, we know each other’s game inside out. We know what championship level basketball looks like,” he said. But what if the duo became a trio with James Harden’s speculated move to Brooklyn. Durant wasn’t bothered. “Whatever happens, we have to be prepared for everything,” said Durant. When further probed on his role in getting the Houston Rockets cornerstone to his team, Durant said these are all made up stories. “I heard all the noise and James potentially wanted to come to the Nets. Nothing is set in stone till it is set in stone,” Durant concluded.

Life comes a full circle for Kevin Durant

Rapper Drake has negative for coronavirus days after he met and spend time with NBA baller <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-brooklyn-nets-player-kevin-durant-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-report-287109">Kevin Durant who has tested positive for the virus. &nbsp;</a> 
 
According to reports, during an Instagram Live session with his father, Dennis Graham, Drake broke the good news that he did not contract the coronavirus."Yeah, I had to do a test, but it came back negative, though. That test is uncomfortable though, they put that Q-tip all the way up inside your thoughts and s-t," the rapper shared. 
 
Drake and Durant hung out 11 days ago at West Hollywood hotspot Nice Guy with Drake posting a photo of their night out on Instagram. 
 
American professional basketball team on Tuesday released a statement via Twitter that a total of four Nets players have tested positive for coronavirus, with only one currently showing symptoms.

Rapper Drake has negative for coronavirus days after he met and spend time with NBA baller Kevin Durant who has tested positive for the virus. According to reports, during an Instagram Live session with his father, Dennis Graham, Drake broke the good news that he did not contract the coronavirus.

Rapper Drake has negative for coronavirus days after he met and spend time with NBA baller Kevin Durant who has tested positive for the virus. According to reports, during an Instagram Live session with his father, Dennis Graham, Drake broke the good news that he did not contract the coronavirus."Yeah, I had to do a test, but it came back negative, though. That test is uncomfortable though, they put that Q-tip all the way up inside your thoughts and s-t," the rapper shared. Drake and Durant hung out 11 days ago at West Hollywood hotspot Nice Guy with Drake posting a photo of their night out on Instagram. American professional basketball team on Tuesday released a statement via Twitter that a total of four Nets players have tested positive for coronavirus, with only one currently showing symptoms.

Drake tests negative for coronavirus after a night out with infected NBA baller Kevin Durant

NBA Brooklyn Nets player Kevin Durant has tested positive for coronavirus, reports said.

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A statement from the Brooklyn Nets: <a href="https://t.co/QnETcDEHCJ">pic.twitter.com/QnETcDEHCJ</a>
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In a statement, the Nets said that four players have tested positive for COVID-19.

"Of the four, one player is exhibiting symptoms while three are asymptomatic," it said.

All players have presently been isolated and under the care of team doctors. Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert was the first NBA player to test positive from the virus which led the NBA to call off all matches.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-wish-could-have-taken-this-thing-seriously-nba-star-rudy-gobert-cautions-fans-over-coronavirus-286705">Also Read: I wish could have taken this thing seriously, says NBA star Rudy Gobert</a>

Detroit Pistons teammates Donovan Mitchell and Christian Wood had&nbsp;also tested positive earlier.

In a statement, LA Lakers said they were in touch with Nets players after the team declared their players were infected with COVID-19.

"Given the exposure risks from our game against the Nets on March 10th we are following the next steps of our COVID-19 procedures and protocols that are established in consultation with various health officials, the NBA and our UCLA Health doctors," the Lakers said.&nbsp;

NBA Brooklyn Nets player Kevin Durant has tested positive for coronavirus, reports said. A statement from the Brooklyn Nets: pic.twitter.com/QnETcDEHCJ — Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) March 17, 2020 × In a statement, the Nets said that four players have tested positive for COVID-19.

NBA Brooklyn Nets player Kevin Durant has tested positive for coronavirus, reports said. A statement from the Brooklyn Nets: pic.twitter.com/QnETcDEHCJ — Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) March 17, 2020 × In a statement, the Nets said that four players have tested positive for COVID-19. "Of the four, one player is exhibiting symptoms while three are asymptomatic," it said. All players have presently been isolated and under the care of team doctors. Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert was the first NBA player to test positive from the virus which led the NBA to call off all matches. Also Read: I wish could have taken this thing seriously, says NBA star Rudy Gobert Detroit Pistons teammates Donovan Mitchell and Christian Wood had also tested positive earlier. In a statement, LA Lakers said they were in touch with Nets players after the team declared their players were infected with COVID-19. "Given the exposure risks from our game against the Nets on March 10th we are following the next steps of our COVID-19 procedures and protocols that are established in consultation with various health officials, the NBA and our UCLA Health doctors," the Lakers said.

NBA Brooklyn Nets player Kevin Durant tests positive for coronavirus: Report

Lionel Messi beats Cristiano Ronaldo in Forbes top 100, Virat Kohli only Indian in list

Completing a third consecutive unbeaten run to Olympic gold, the United States captured a sixth Games title with NBA talent in seven tries by routing Serbia 96-66 in yesterday&#39;s final. 
 
Kevin Durant scored 30 points while DeMarcus Cousins added 13 points and 15 rebounds as the US squad cruised to a 15th overall men&#39;s basketball gold medal, every US player scoring in the romp that decided the last gold medal in Rio. 
 
The Americans stretched their Olympic win streak to 25 games and overall decade-long winning run to 76 games. 
 
US forward Carmelo Anthony became the first man to win three Olympic basketball gold medals. He was on the 2004 team that settled for bronze but returned for 2008 and 2012 triumphs, although he has no plans to play in 2020 at Tokyo. 
 
"It was a special moment for me," Anthony said of winning his third gold. "I know this is the end. This is it for me. I committed to this in &#39;04. I&#39;ve seen the worst and I&#39;ve seen the best. I&#39;m here today three gold medals later." 
 
It was the farewell game for US coach Mike Krzyzewski, who will be replaced by San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. 
 
A Serbian team that tested the US squad before falling 94-91 in a group stage game - the closest call in the Americans&#39; Olympic win streak - stayed close for barely a quarter before the NBA playmakers began going wild. 
 
Serbia led 14-11 with 3:12 remaining in the first quarter when the Americans, who opened the game shooting only 5-of-17 from the floor, began what would become a 32-8 run to break open the contest. 
 
Durant had 14 points in the pivotal spurt, including a spectacular steal and fast break slam dunk that brought the loudest roar from USA fans. 
 
For the game, Durant shot 10-of-19 from the field, including 5-of-11 from 3-point range. 
 
Durant, who scored 18 of his 24 first-half points in the second quarter, joins the NBA Western Conference champion Golden State Warriors next season after their record-setting 73-win 2015-16 campaign. 
 
Cousins had 11 points and 12 rebounds in the first half, which ended with the Americans ahead 52-29 and playing like the flamboyant side most expected to see once the roster was named. 
 
In the second half, it was only a matter of settling the final margin and seeing some highlight-reel US moves, notably an alley-oop slam dunk by DeMar DeRozan early in the fourth quarter. 
 
Durant and Anthony hugged late in the fourth quarter with the result long decided. The two were the only players back from the 2012 squad, their 10 teammates all Olympic first-timers. 
 
At the finish, the Americans were dancing at mid-court in celebration. 
 
Nemanja Nedovic led Serbia with 14 points. 
 
Spain, which lost to the US team in the past two Olympic finals, edged Australia 89-88 in the bronze medal game. 
 
(AFP)

Kevin Durant scored 30 points as the US squad cruised to a 15th overall men's basketball gold medal

Completing a third consecutive unbeaten run to Olympic gold, the United States captured a sixth Games title with NBA talent in seven tries by routing Serbia 96-66 in yesterday's final. Kevin Durant scored 30 points while DeMarcus Cousins added 13 points and 15 rebounds as the US squad cruised to a 15th overall men's basketball gold medal, every US player scoring in the romp that decided the last gold medal in Rio. The Americans stretched their Olympic win streak to 25 games and overall decade-long winning run to 76 games. US forward Carmelo Anthony became the first man to win three Olympic basketball gold medals. He was on the 2004 team that settled for bronze but returned for 2008 and 2012 triumphs, although he has no plans to play in 2020 at Tokyo. "It was a special moment for me," Anthony said of winning his third gold. "I know this is the end. This is it for me. I committed to this in '04. I've seen the worst and I've seen the best. I'm here today three gold medals later." It was the farewell game for US coach Mike Krzyzewski, who will be replaced by San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. A Serbian team that tested the US squad before falling 94-91 in a group stage game - the closest call in the Americans' Olympic win streak - stayed close for barely a quarter before the NBA playmakers began going wild. Serbia led 14-11 with 3:12 remaining in the first quarter when the Americans, who opened the game shooting only 5-of-17 from the floor, began what would become a 32-8 run to break open the contest. Durant had 14 points in the pivotal spurt, including a spectacular steal and fast break slam dunk that brought the loudest roar from USA fans. For the game, Durant shot 10-of-19 from the field, including 5-of-11 from 3-point range. Durant, who scored 18 of his 24 first-half points in the second quarter, joins the NBA Western Conference champion Golden State Warriors next season after their record-setting 73-win 2015-16 campaign. Cousins had 11 points and 12 rebounds in the first half, which ended with the Americans ahead 52-29 and playing like the flamboyant side most expected to see once the roster was named. In the second half, it was only a matter of settling the final margin and seeing some highlight-reel US moves, notably an alley-oop slam dunk by DeMar DeRozan early in the fourth quarter. Durant and Anthony hugged late in the fourth quarter with the result long decided. The two were the only players back from the 2012 squad, their 10 teammates all Olympic first-timers. At the finish, the Americans were dancing at mid-court in celebration. Nemanja Nedovic led Serbia with 14 points. Spain, which lost to the US team in the past two Olympic finals, edged Australia 89-88 in the bronze medal game. (AFP)

Rio Olympics 2016: US beat Serbia to win third consecutive basketball gold

The Golden State Warriors secured their second NBA championship in three seasons with a 129-120 Game Five win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday, capping a near-perfect run through the playoffs.

The Warriors, who beat Cleveland in the 2015 Finals only to lose to them last year after squandering a 3-1 series lead, went a record-setting 15-1 in the playoffs, their only loss coming in Game Four of the best-of-seven championship.

The win provided redemption for the Warriors, who brought Kevin Durant over from the Oklahoma City Thunder last offseason to bolster their already high-powered offense.

Durant, who lost in his only previous Finals appearance in 2012, led the way for the Warriors with 39 points and was relieved after feeling pressure to deliver prior to the game.

&quot;I couldn&#39;t sleep for two days,&quot; Durant, who was named the Finals MVP, said during an on-court interview. &quot;I was anxious, I was jittery.

&quot;I just wanted to lay it all out there. I put in work, I just had to trust in it. We were really good tonight.&quot;

Cavaliers&#39; forward LeBron James had a game-high 41 points and guard Kyrie Irving hit tough shots all night but defensive breakdowns by Cleveland led to easy baskets late in the game for the Warriors, igniting a deafening crowd.

James said he had no reason to feel sorry for himself. &quot;I left everything on the floor every game, all five games,&quot; he said. &quot;I have no reason to put my head down.&quot;

Warriors point guard Stephen Curry said the experience of losing last year&#39;s Finals served them well this season.

&quot;We learned from everything we&#39;ve been through,&quot; Curry said during the trophy celebration. &quot;To be back here and bring gold Larry (O&#39;Brien trophy) back home, I&#39;m just excited to be a part of this group and accomplish something special. I&#39;m ready to do it again.&quot;

An unprecedented third straight Finals clash between the Warriors and Cavaliers was hyped as the ultimate championship rubber match and expected to be the antidote for a postseason that had little in the way of drama.

But that idea fizzled fast when the Warriors opened with a pair of lopsided wins at home, fought back late to steal the next game in Cleveland and then, after dropping their first game of the postseason, closed out the series at home.

In the end, the Cavaliers simply did not have enough top-class talent to topple the Warriors, even with four-time league MVP James doing all he could to keep his team in it.

For James, already a three-times champion, the loss puts him in rare company as only the fourth player to come up short in five NBA Finals.

Cleveland&#39;s inability to give the Warriors much of a fight has already sparked talk that James, who left the team in 2010 for Miami before returning four years later, could consider another move during 2018 free agency.

(Reuters)

Durant, who lost in his only previous Finals appearance in 2012, led the way for the Warriors with 39 points

The Golden State Warriors secured their second NBA championship in three seasons with a 129-120 Game Five win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday, capping a near-perfect run through the playoffs. The Warriors, who beat Cleveland in the 2015 Finals only to lose to them last year after squandering a 3-1 series lead, went a record-setting 15-1 in the playoffs, their only loss coming in Game Four of the best-of-seven championship. The win provided redemption for the Warriors, who brought Kevin Durant over from the Oklahoma City Thunder last offseason to bolster their already high-powered offense. Durant, who lost in his only previous Finals appearance in 2012, led the way for the Warriors with 39 points and was relieved after feeling pressure to deliver prior to the game. "I couldn't sleep for two days," Durant, who was named the Finals MVP, said during an on-court interview. "I was anxious, I was jittery. "I just wanted to lay it all out there. I put in work, I just had to trust in it. We were really good tonight." Cavaliers' forward LeBron James had a game-high 41 points and guard Kyrie Irving hit tough shots all night but defensive breakdowns by Cleveland led to easy baskets late in the game for the Warriors, igniting a deafening crowd. James said he had no reason to feel sorry for himself. "I left everything on the floor every game, all five games," he said. "I have no reason to put my head down." Warriors point guard Stephen Curry said the experience of losing last year's Finals served them well this season. "We learned from everything we've been through," Curry said during the trophy celebration. "To be back here and bring gold Larry (O'Brien trophy) back home, I'm just excited to be a part of this group and accomplish something special. I'm ready to do it again." An unprecedented third straight Finals clash between the Warriors and Cavaliers was hyped as the ultimate championship rubber match and expected to be the antidote for a postseason that had little in the way of drama. But that idea fizzled fast when the Warriors opened with a pair of lopsided wins at home, fought back late to steal the next game in Cleveland and then, after dropping their first game of the postseason, closed out the series at home. In the end, the Cavaliers simply did not have enough top-class talent to topple the Warriors, even with four-time league MVP James doing all he could to keep his team in it. For James, already a three-times champion, the loss puts him in rare company as only the fourth player to come up short in five NBA Finals. Cleveland's inability to give the Warriors much of a fight has already sparked talk that James, who left the team in 2010 for Miami before returning four years later, could consider another move during 2018 free agency. (Reuters)

NBA Championships: Golden State Warriors ride Durant to beat LeBron James' Cavaliers

Former NBA Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant, the biggest prize on the free agent market, announced on Monday that he will join the Golden State Warriors. 
 
Durant, a four-times league scoring champion and seven-times All-Star who spent the first nine years of his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder franchise, said in a piece posted on the Players&#39; Tribune website that this has been the most challenging time of his professional life. 
 
&quot;The primary mandate I had for myself in making this decision was to have it based on the potential for my growth as a player - as that has always steered me in the right direction,&quot; Durant wrote. 
 
&quot;But I am also at a point in my life where it is of equal importance to find an opportunity that encourages my evolution as a man: moving out of my comfort zone to a new city and community which offers the greatest potential for my contribution and personal growth,&quot; he further confided in the piece and added, &quot;With this in mind, I have decided that I am going to join the Golden State Warriors.&quot;&nbsp; 
 
Durant, whose former Thunder team came one win short of reaching the 2016 NBA Finals, met with Oklahoma City, Golden State, Los Angeles Clippers, Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs and Miami Heat before making his decision. 
 
He joins a Warriors team that includes reigning league MVP Stephen Curry, won the NBA title in 2015 and finished runner-up in 2016 after a remarkable campaign in which they had a record 73 wins during the 82-game regular season. 
 
Terms of the deal were not disclosed but Durant is reportedly expected to sign a two-year, $54.3 million contract with the Warriors. 
 
(Reuters)

Durant is expected to sign a two-year, $54.3 million contract with the Warriors

Former NBA Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant, the biggest prize on the free agent market, announced on Monday that he will join the Golden State Warriors. Durant, a four-times league scoring champion and seven-times All-Star who spent the first nine years of his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder franchise, said in a piece posted on the Players' Tribune website that this has been the most challenging time of his professional life. "The primary mandate I had for myself in making this decision was to have it based on the potential for my growth as a player - as that has always steered me in the right direction," Durant wrote. "But I am also at a point in my life where it is of equal importance to find an opportunity that encourages my evolution as a man: moving out of my comfort zone to a new city and community which offers the greatest potential for my contribution and personal growth," he further confided in the piece and added, "With this in mind, I have decided that I am going to join the Golden State Warriors." Durant, whose former Thunder team came one win short of reaching the 2016 NBA Finals, met with Oklahoma City, Golden State, Los Angeles Clippers, Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs and Miami Heat before making his decision. He joins a Warriors team that includes reigning league MVP Stephen Curry, won the NBA title in 2015 and finished runner-up in 2016 after a remarkable campaign in which they had a record 73 wins during the 82-game regular season. Terms of the deal were not disclosed but Durant is reportedly expected to sign a two-year, $54.3 million contract with the Warriors. (Reuters)

Eyeing growth, Star NBA player Kevin Durant decides to join Golden State Warriors

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