Kevin Durant Provides Classy Response to Nets Playing Tribute Video

Durant may not have wanted the tribute, but appreciated the gesture.

Kevin Durant said he didn’t want a tribute video from the Brooklyn Nets when he returned to Barclays Center as a member of the Phoenix Suns, insisting “the night will be better without it.”

However, the Nets didn’t pay attention to Durant’s objections on Wednesday night. The team did indeed play a video in the arena to honor their former star and gave fans a chance to applaud his contributions during nearly three seasons in Brooklyn. 

Durant couldn’t be mad about such a gesture, right? The video was as much for the fans as it was for him. Speaking to reporters after the Suns’ 136–120 win over the Nets, the 15-time All-Star still appeared to prefer that Brooklyn not make a fuss. However, he was grateful for the tribute. 

“It’s classy people here. They appreciate everyone who donned a jersey,” Durant told reporters. “That shows a great organization when you can appreciate everyone who stepped foot and put their blood, sweat and tears into your organization. I respect that.” 

Kevin Durant talks about the tribute video he got at Barclays Center tonight:

"It's classy people here. It shows a great organization when you can appreciate everybody who stepped foot and put their blood, sweat and tears into your organization. I respect that" pic.twitter.com/WaIQZQYcj1

— Nets Videos (@SNYNets) February 1, 2024

Durant led all scorers with 33 points in Phoenix’s victory, shooting 10 for 16 from the field and making 11 of 12 free throws. Cam Thomas–who told reporters on Monday that he thought Durant was trolling about the tribute video–scored 25 points for the Nets. 

During his three seasons with the Nets, Durant averaged 29 points, 6.7 rebounds and 7.1 assists per game. Unfortunately, the team was never able to follow through on championship expectations for a lineup with Durant, James Harden and Kyrie Irving.