How could we possibly talk about the Thunder without mentioning Oklahoma City's #1 player - Kevin Durant!
Born in Washington DC on September 29, 1988, Kevin has played - and excelled - at basketball for most of his life. In his school days, he stood out for his abilities and was heavily sought after. He attended University of Texas for one year before being drafted into the Seattle Supersonics in 2007, launching his NBA career.
During Durant's debut season, the Seattle Supersonics moved to Oklahoma City and were rebranded to the Oklahoma City Thunder that many of us have come to love. He has gone on to shatter records and win a number of awards, including NBA Rookie of the Year, USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year, Big 12 Player of the Year, and Big 12 Tournament MVP.
In the most previous season (2013 - 2014), Durant shattered Michael Jordan's record for the most consecutive games scoring at least 25 points. Also, during the 2012 Olympics, he set the record for the most points scored in an Olympic basketball tournament.
Kevin Durant is a popular player, not only for his abilities, but for his personality and outlook. He is widely considered to be a friendly player (despite his great wealth.) A 2012 poll found him to be more well-liked than both Kobe Bryant and LeBron James. In addition, he is a bit of a philanthropist, having donated $1 million to victims of the 2013 Moore tornado through the Red Cross. His generous donation was praised and matched by both the Thunder and Nike. He is also a spokesman for P'Tone Records, a non-profit music program for schoolchildren.
Durant has been an incredible influence and idol for Oklahoma City. He's somebody that children and adults can both look up to (especially considering he's 6'9), and has certainly made our city a more exciting place.
Where will he take us from here? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure - it will be definitely be upward and onward!
Where will he take us from here? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure - it will be definitely be upward and onward!