The Story Behind KD's Jersey Choice
Kevin Durant, one of the most electrifying players in NBA history, has graced the hardwood in a few different jersey numbers throughout his illustrious career. While his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Brooklyn Nets saw him wear the iconic number 35, his recent move to the Phoenix Suns has brought a new number into the spotlight: Number 7. This shift has naturally sparked curiosity among fans, leading many to ask: Why is Kevin Durant number 7?
The answer isn't as simple as a random selection. Durant's choice of number 7 is steeped in personal meaning and a touch of homage. Let's dive into the details.
A Nod to His Son
The most prominent and widely reported reason for Kevin Durant's switch to number 7 is to honor his young son, Kai. While specific details about Kai's birthdate or any direct numerical connection to the number 7 haven't been explicitly stated by Durant, the sentiment is clear. For many athletes, personal milestones and family are paramount, and jersey numbers can serve as a powerful and visible symbol of that connection.
Wearing number 7 allows Durant to carry a piece of his son with him on the court, a constant reminder of what truly matters to him off the court. This is a common practice among athletes across various sports, and it speaks to the deep bond between parents and children.
Inspiration from a Legend
Beyond his personal connection, there's also a significant element of inspiration from a basketball legend. The number 7 has been worn by some of the greatest players to ever grace the game, and Kevin Durant, himself a future Hall of Famer, is clearly aware of this rich history. One player who immediately comes to mind is "Pistol" Pete Maravich.
Maravich, known for his dazzling ball-handling, creative passing, and prodigious scoring ability, wore number 7 throughout his collegiate and professional careers. His style of play, which emphasized flair and individual brilliance, has often been compared to Durant's own offensive mastery. Durant has openly expressed his admiration for Maravich, and adopting his number can be seen as a tribute to "The Pistol" and his enduring legacy in basketball.
A Fresh Start in Phoenix
Every player experiences different phases in their career. Moving to a new team often signifies a fresh start, and a new jersey number can be a symbolic way to mark this transition. After his stints with the Thunder, Warriors, and Nets, Durant's arrival in Phoenix was met with immense anticipation. Choosing number 7 could also be interpreted as a way to embrace this new chapter with a clean slate and a new identity in the desert.
While he could have opted to keep his familiar number 35, the decision to switch to 7 suggests a desire to differentiate this phase of his career and perhaps to symbolize a renewed focus and motivation. It's a way to say, "This is a new KD, in a new city, with new aspirations."
What About Number 35?
Kevin Durant's number 35 is deeply ingrained in his identity as a basketball player. He wore it for his entire tenure with the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he rose to superstardom and won an MVP award. He continued to wear it with the Golden State Warriors and the Brooklyn Nets. The number 35 holds a special significance as it was chosen in honor of his little league coach, Tarsha Collier, who passed away when Durant was young. Collier was a significant mentor in Durant's life, and he has often spoken about her impact on his journey.
The decision to move away from number 35 was likely a difficult one, but it underscores the powerful personal reasons behind his adoption of number 7. While number 35 will always be a part of his legacy, number 7 represents a new chapter and a different set of personal priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kevin Durant's Number 7
How did Kevin Durant choose number 7 for the Phoenix Suns?
Kevin Durant chose number 7 primarily to honor his young son, Kai. This is a deeply personal choice that allows him to keep his son close to his heart while competing on the court. He also draws inspiration from legendary players who have worn number 7.
Why did Kevin Durant stop wearing number 35?
Kevin Durant stopped wearing number 35 because he wanted to adopt a new jersey number that held significant personal meaning for his current stage of life. While number 35 was a tribute to his late coach, number 7 is a direct nod to his son, signifying a shift in his personal priorities and a desire for a fresh start with the Phoenix Suns.
Is Kevin Durant the only famous athlete to wear number 7?
No, Kevin Durant is certainly not the only famous athlete to wear number 7. This number has been a popular choice for many legendary athletes across various sports, including Cristiano Ronaldo in soccer and, as mentioned, "Pistol" Pete Maravich in basketball. Its association with greatness likely makes it an appealing choice for many aspiring stars.
Does the number 7 have any special meaning in basketball beyond Durant?
Yes, the number 7 carries historical significance in basketball. It's been worn by numerous Hall of Fame players and impactful personalities in the sport. Its association with skilled and impactful players, like Pete Maravich, has given it a certain prestige within basketball culture.
Will Kevin Durant ever wear number 35 again?
While there's no official word on whether Kevin Durant will ever wear number 35 again, it's highly unlikely during his time with the Phoenix Suns, as he has committed to number 7. However, in the future, perhaps in a special exhibition game or a commemorative event, it's not impossible to see him don the number that holds so much history for him.
