Kevin Durant didn’t start Team USA’s semi-final duel against Serbia. If you’re purely looking at how the game went from the epic 95-91 comeback win‘s box score, you would think that the Slim Reaper didn’t have as great a game as long-time NBA fans know he can pull off.
However, stats are the last thing in Durant’s mind when the Americans completed the phenomenal win after being down by 17 points against Nikola Jokic, Bogdan Bogdanovic, and Serbia. He didn’t hold back with his superlatives in praising Stephen Curry’s incredible 36-point outing.
He also took the opportunity to share his personal thoughts about things that don’t directly involve playing in the Olympics. His message was short but heartfelt, and his comments should resonate with Americans all over the globe.
Kevin Durant shares deeply patriotic message after Team USA’s comeback victory vs Serbia
During Team USA’s postgame interview, Durant was asked about the pressures that come with playing for the American flag and what playing for the program meant for him.
“A lot of bullshit happens in this country,” Durant told the press. “But a lot of great things happen, too.”
This isn’t the first time players and figures around the league have spoken out about politics and other social issues. However, patriotism isn’t usually among the talking points usually touched upon.
To hear a player as influential as Durant talk about the United States in such a way should be able to instill a sense of love for a nation that has been used to division.
Durant hopes to win gold with Team USA vs France
While Durant’s team barely eked out a win against Serbia, they understand that their gold-medal game against France would be anything but easy. Victor Wembanyama is playing great basketball in Paris, and the gold-medal match will be an away game as the crowd will root for the team to win (with the loudest jeers reserved for Joel Embiid).
However, American fans can count on Kevin Durant to step up for the squad. He’s averaging 13.6 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal, and 0.8 blocks through five appearances. As long as he, LeBron, and Curry continue playing great basketball, there’s no reason why the United States won’t finish with the gold.
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