⁠ ⁠"All these stops along the journey have really impacted me in a positive way" - Kevin Durant bids farewell to Phoenix Suns in an emotional post

Kevin Durant’s time with the Phoenix Suns ended as he officially joined the Houston Rockets in a historic seven-team deal. The Suns, Rockets, Hawks, Nets, Warriors, Timberwolves, and Lakers were all involved in the biggest transaction in NBA history. The deal was completed on Sunday as the league’s new calendar year began. The deal includes 13 players and numerous future draft picks.

Kevin Durant released a statement on X:

"All these stops along the journey have really impacted me in a positive way."

Kevin Durant and veteran center Clint Capela were traded to the Rockets in the historic transaction. Phoenix, in return, gained the draft rights to Khaman Maluach along with promising players Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks.

A possible pick exchange, many second-round selections, and monetary considerations extending into the next 10 years were also included in the deal. The scale of the deal reflects shifting dynamics in the league as teams balance short-term goals with long-term planning.

Kevin Durant bids farewell to Phoenix

Shortly after the trade was confirmed, Kevin Durant, 36, posted an emotional message to Suns supporters and the team on social media.

He wrote on X:

"My time in Phoenix has come to an end. All these stops along the journey have really impacted me in a positive way. Remeber it’s a world behind the scenes, and those who make things work in that space, work tirelessly to make our lives easier as players. I appreciate all the quick interactions with everybody from support staff to teammates distant cousins, it’s all a family that I’m grateful to be apart of, no matter what. I truly believe this nba is a one big community. Much love to Arizona. Houston, Can’t Wait!"

The general manager of the Phoenix Suns, Brian Gregory, praised and thanked Durant for his contributions to the organization and community during his time with the team. He said:

"One of the greatest to ever play the game, we are grateful for the impact Kevin made on our organization and in our community. As a member of the Suns, he climbed the scoring charts to become just the eighth player in NBA history to score 30,000 career points, and we wish him the best as he continues his career in Houston."

Rockets look ahead with optimism

Houston is looking ahead with anticipation. The head coach of the Houston Rockets, Ime Udoka, expressed his excitement about working with Durant. He referred to Kevin Durant as “one of the greatest players of his generation.” He said:

"His skill level, love of basketball, and dedication to his craft have made him one of the most respected players of his generation, and my staff and I are excited to work with him."

The Rockets finished second in the Western Conference last season but were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. Durant’s addition could give them an edge this season. Durant brings veteran experience and a proven championship mindset. Houston sees Durant as the key to improving the team’s postseason chances and securing a championship.

The move marks a return to Texas for Durant, where he first gained national attention. Kevin Durant played for the University of Texas before being selected as the No. 2 overall pick by the Seattle SuperSonics.

Durant, now entering his 18th NBA season—excluding the one missed due to an Achilles injury—is widely regarded as one of the game’s all-time greats.

He has won two NBA championships, four scoring titles, two Finals MVP awards, and has been named a 15-time All-Star. He averaged 26.6 points per game last season, and only eight players in NBA history have scored more than 30,000 points in their careers. He has also won four Olympic medals with the United States basketball team.

The Houston Rockets mark Durant’s fifth team, having previously played for Seattle/Oklahoma City, Golden State, Brooklyn, and Phoenix. All eyes will be on how the Rockets perform with Durant in the lineup—especially from fans.

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