10 Images That Define Durant’s Journey Through the NBA

These ten images map the complex, evolving legend of Kevin Durant — from lanky rookie to global basketball icon — one snapshot at a time.

Alyana Aguja
June 30, 2025
4 min read

10 Images That Define Durant’s Journey Through the NBA — Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Kevin Durant’s NBA journey has never been linear — it’s been a mosaic of comebacks, controversy, reinvention, and greatness. Through iconic photos etched in memory, we trace a career that’s defined not just by rings or stats, but by resilience, silence, and the spaces between the noise. Each image reflects a different shade of who KD is: a scorer, a teammate, a fighter, a man chasing something deeper than applause.

1. Rookie Roar – 2008, SuperSonics vs. Mavericks (Jan 21, 2008)

Brendan Maloney-Imagn Images

In a quiet KeyArena, the 19-year-old Durant drilled a game-winner over Dallas, sealing the moment with an innocent, almost surprised smile. It was the SuperSonics’ final season before relocation, but Durant gave Seattle one last flicker of basketball hope. That shot marked the start of a career built on clutch moments and cold-blooded scoring.

2. The MVP Speech – 2014, NBA MVP Award Ceremony (May 6, 2014)

Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

Wearing a gray suit and tear-streaked face, Durant stood in front of his peers and gave the now-iconic “You the real MVP” tribute to his mother. It wasn’t about points or highlights — it was about heart. That image of vulnerability redefined the emotional landscape of an NBA superstar.

3. Game 5 Explosion – 2012 Western Conference Finals, Thunder vs. Spurs (June 4, 2012)

Soobum Im-Imagn Images

Down 0–2 in the series, Durant erupted for 27 second-half points, his lean frame seemingly levitating as he drilled jumper after jumper. The Thunder bench couldn’t sit still, and the arena rocked as Oklahoma City took a 3–2 series lead. That night, KD stopped being a prospect — he became a killer.

4. Scoring Champ Swagger – 2011, Thunder vs. Warriors

Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Durant dropped 31 points to edge out LeBron James for his first scoring title at just 21. As the youngest scoring champion in history, he walked off the court that night with quiet pride, no need for chest-pounding. His wiry build, high release, and unreadable expression became his signature.

5. The Shot Over LeBron – 2017 NBA Finals Game 3, Warriors vs. Cavaliers

Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images

With 45 seconds left, Durant calmly pulled up from deep in transition, right in LeBron James’ face. The three was a dagger, and KD’s expression didn’t flinch as he jogged back, arms relaxed, like he’d been there before. It was the coldest moment of the Finals and cemented his alpha status in Golden State.

6. Achilles Tear – 2019 NBA Finals Game 5, Warriors vs. Raptors (June 10, 2019)

Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

Durant had just returned from injury, but after one move, he crumpled to the floor, clutching his right Achilles. As fans gasped and teammates held their heads, KD limped off, helped by trainers, offering one last glance to the court. That image was haunting — of a warrior trying to give more than his body could take.

7. Brooklyn Debut – 2020, Nets vs. Warriors

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

After 552 days away, Durant stepped back onto the hardwood and buried a jumper 20 seconds into the game. His smooth motion looked unchanged, but the jersey was black, the vibe different. He was no longer someone else’s weapon — this time, the team was built around him.

8. Game 5 Marathon – 2021 Eastern Semifinals, Nets vs. Bucks

Michael McLoone-Imagn Images

Durant played all 48 minutes and delivered 49 points, 17 rebounds, and 10 assists in a legendary solo effort. That image of him, exhausted, hands on knees but eyes still locked in, became immortal overnight. He didn’t just carry the Nets — he became the Nets.

9. Olympic Gold Smile – 2021 Tokyo Olympics, USA vs. France (Aug 7, 2021)

Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

After leading Team USA to victory, Durant draped the American flag over his shoulders and smiled, soaking in the moment like a kid who still loved the game. He had been the unquestioned leader of that squad, the guy others leaned on. In a summer full of pressure, he delivered pure joy.

10. The Suns Arrival – 2023, Suns vs. Hornets

Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

In his Phoenix debut, Durant showed his timeless form, scoring efficiently and playing defense like he’d been there for years. The image of him in a purple-and-orange jersey, head down and walking with calm intent, felt surreal — but somehow inevitable. It was another chapter, not a rerun.