Kevin Durant Biography: Life Story & NBA Career Path

Born on September 29, 1988, in Washington, D.C., Kevin Wayne Durant's early life laid the foundation for what would become one of the most celebrated careers in modern professional sports. Standing at an imposing 208 centimeters (6 feet 11 inches) tall, his unique combination of size and shooting ability became evident early on. His basketball journey took a significant leap forward when he committed to playing college basketball for the University of Texas at Austin. During his single season with the Longhorns, Durant delivered a historic performance that immediately captured the attention of the sports world. He shattered expectations for first-year players by becoming the very first freshman in history to win the prestigious Naismith College Player of the Year award, a milestone that cemented his readiness for the professional ranks.

Following his groundbreaking collegiate campaign, Durant's career path officially transitioned to the National Basketball Association. He entered the 2007 NBA Draft as a highly touted prospect and was selected second overall by the Seattle SuperSonics. His arrival marked the beginning of a new era for the franchise, which shortly thereafter relocated to become the Oklahoma City Thunder. In Oklahoma City, Durant evolved from a promising young talent into a bona fide superstar and a perennial scoring threat. His relentless offensive output and leadership on the court culminated in a career-defining 2013-2014 season, during which he was honored with the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, solidifying his status as the premier player in the league at that time.

The pursuit of ultimate team success eventually led Durant to make a pivotal career decision, joining the Golden State Warriors. This chapter of his life story is highlighted by back-to-back NBA championships in 2017 and 2018. During both championship runs, Durant's performances on the game's biggest stage were nothing short of spectacular, earning him the NBA Finals MVP award in consecutive years. After his highly successful tenure with the Warriors, his journey continued with a stint playing for the Brooklyn Nets. Eventually, a high-profile trade in 2023 brought him to the Phoenix Suns, where he remains an active and vital roster piece as of the 2025-2026 NBA season.

Now 37 years old in 2026, Durant's legacy extends far beyond his franchise achievements. Widely recognized as one of the greatest scorers in league history, he has amassed well over 28,000 total points in his NBA career, earning 14 NBA All-Star selections along the way. Furthermore, his international career is unmatched; he has proudly represented the United States on the global stage, securing four Olympic gold medals with victories in 2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024. Outside the confines of the basketball court, the multifaceted athlete has also expanded his professional portfolio, working actively as a television producer and a YouTuber, proving that his influence and ambitions reach well beyond the hardwood.

Frequently asked questions

Where did Kevin Durant play college basketball before the NBA?

He played one season of college basketball for the University of Texas at Austin, where he made history as the first freshman to ever win the Naismith College Player of the Year award.

Which team originally drafted Kevin Durant?

Durant was selected second overall in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Seattle SuperSonics, a franchise that subsequently relocated and became the Oklahoma City Thunder.

How many Olympic gold medals does Kevin Durant have?

He has won four Olympic gold medals, achieving victories with the United States national team in 2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024.

How many career points has Kevin Durant scored?

Recognized as one of the greatest scorers in league history, Durant's NBA career points total exceeds 28,000.

Photo: Keith Allison / CC BY-SA 2.0 — Wikimedia Commons