Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Kevin Durant Makes Candid Statement on OKC Thunder Exit, 'I wanted...'

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ryan Brooks | Last updated Jan 15, 2025 2:23 PM ET

The Oklahoma City Thunder have only been a club since the relocation in 2008. Since then, though, they've enjoyed a wealth of success.

While the Thunder haven't raised a banner in the Paycom Center, though they've enjoyed plenty of Hall of Fame talents rolling through and making their mark on the city.

The likes of Paul George, Carmelo Anthony and even Chris Paul -- all potential Hall of Fame NBA players -- were acquired by the Thunder via trade.

However, the team has done a great job of identifying and drafting the same level of talent. Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and James Harden were all drafted by the team and developed within the club.

All three of those players that Oklahoma City drafted have won an MVP trophy at some point in their careers. They're great, but none were ultimately able to raise a championship trophy and all eventually moved on.

Kevin Durant explains why he left the Thunder

For Kevin Durant, he was the most hated after his move. Harden was traded, as was Westbrook, but the Texas product left in free agency.

Durant has often talked about his Oklahoma City exit, but he recently stated quite simply why he left the organization while in an appearance on the "Out the Mud" podcast.

"I understood why people was pissed off but I couldn't make a decision based off what other people wanted me to do... I wanted a new experience," Durant explained.

Kevin Durant on his decision to leave the Thunder: "I understood why people was pissed off but I couldn't make a decision based off what other people wanted me to do... I wanted a new experience."

Said the Warriors played real, team basketball

(via @OutTheMudTL) pic.twitter.com/o0QOgHfK1V
— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) January 15, 2025

Durant got a new experience. He left Oklahoma City and joined a large market like the Golden State Warriors, where he was able to live in the Bay Area and capture two titles and add to his legacy.

The superstar forward understands why Thunder fans were upset, but he wasn't going to let that dictate whether he stayed with the team or not.

Durant played real, team basketball, as he alluded to wanting. He won two titles, despite having made enemies in the process. The move was made nearly nine years ago, though.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: