Kevin Durant's name is synonymous with basketball excellence, but before his championship runs and MVP awards, he was a young star drafted by the Seattle Supersonics. While his time in Seattle was short, it holds a significant place in his career and in the hearts of Sonics fans. This article delves into Durant's brief but impactful tenure with the team, exploring his early career highlights, the relocation to Oklahoma City, and the lasting legacy he left behind in the Emerald City.
What years was Kevin Durant on the Sonics?
Kevin Durant was drafted by the Seattle Supersonics with the second overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft. However, his time with the Seattle Supersonics was incredibly brief. He only played the 2007-2008 season under their banner before the franchise relocated to Oklahoma City and became the Oklahoma City Thunder. Therefore, he played for the Seattle Supersonics during only the 2007-2008 season.
How long did Kevin Durant play for the Sonics?
As mentioned above, Kevin Durant's time with the Sonics was limited to a single season—the 2007-2008 season. While short, his performance during this season showcased the immense potential that would propel him to superstardom in the years to come.
Why did the Sonics move to Oklahoma City?
The move of the Sonics to Oklahoma City was a complex issue involving a confluence of factors. Primarily, the lack of a suitable arena deal in Seattle, coupled with struggles in securing sufficient public funding for a new state-of-the-art facility, played a crucial role. Oklahoma City offered a more attractive financial package, including a new arena and substantial public investment, which ultimately proved more appealing to the ownership group. The move was met with significant disappointment and anger from Seattle fans, leaving a lasting void in the city's sporting landscape.
Did Kevin Durant want to stay in Seattle?
While there's no direct, public statement from Kevin Durant explicitly expressing a desire to stay in Seattle, the abrupt relocation likely impacted his initial plans. He was a young player entering the league, and the unexpected move undoubtedly altered his professional trajectory. The situation likely wasn't one of him actively choosing to leave Seattle but rather an involuntary change driven by the franchise's relocation decision.
What was Kevin Durant's stats for the Seattle Supersonics?
In his sole season with the Seattle Supersonics, Kevin Durant averaged 20.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. These numbers, impressive for a rookie, provided a glimpse into the scoring prowess that would define his career. His performance earned him a spot on the All-Rookie First Team, solidifying his status as one of the most promising young players in the league.
What is Kevin Durant's legacy with the Seattle Supersonics?
Despite the short duration, Kevin Durant's legacy with the Seattle Supersonics remains bittersweet. He represents a final bright spot for a franchise that was ultimately lost to relocation. He showcased exceptional talent, providing fans with memorable moments before the team's departure. For many Seattle fans, he remains a symbol of what could have been – a potential superstar leading a successful Supersonics team in a new arena. The brief glimpse of his talent only amplifies the disappointment surrounding the team’s move. His rookie year performance, however, serves as a poignant reminder of the talent that existed in those final years of the Seattle Supersonics.
Conclusion:
Kevin Durant's time with the Seattle Supersonics was short-lived, but his impact on the franchise and its fans remains substantial. The brief, yet impactful, season cemented his status as a rising star and continues to hold a special place in the memories of those who witnessed his early career brilliance in the Emerald City. His story underscores the complexities of professional sports, highlighting the impact of ownership decisions and their consequences for players and fans alike.
