Mar 28, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) works around Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) in the fourth quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images

Kevin Durant’s Controversial Championship Formula

Originally posted on Stadium Rant | By Levi Omeke | Last updated Oct 21, 2025 12:55 PM ET

Houston Rockets small forward Kevin Durant is the best individual offensive player to ever play in the NBA. He capable of going off on a scoring rampage at any given time in a game.

“You have to score baskets if you want to win a championship”, Durant stated. He also mentioned when playing defense, we can get any of y’all in here to bend your legs.

Defense Wins Championships

Durant is acting like the Milwaukee Bucks team that eliminated him in 2021 and won the championship was not one of the best defensive squads. Jrue Holiday, Khris Middleton, power forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, Brook Lopez, Bobby Portis, PJ Tucker, Donte DiVincenzo, and Pat Connaughton all excelled defensively, showing how great defense can win championships.

This comes from a player who won two championships with the Golden State Warriors—thanks to point guard Stephen Curry and power forward Draymond Green. The Warriors were known for elite offense, but their team defense was just as crucial to their titles.

The 2004 Detroit Pistons with Richard Hamilton, Chauncey Billups, Rasheed Wallace, Tayshaun Prince and Ben Wallace were a team known for their defense. The Thunder played great defense all of last season. Both teams won a championship.

Los Angeles Clippers point guard James Harden has been one of the best scorers in the NBA and still have no championships. The Phoenix Suns, with a coach who focused on offense, Mike D’Antoni, and Steve Nash, could not win a championship.

End Of My Kevin Durant Rant

Oct 14, 2025; Birmingham, Alabama, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) shoots against the New Orleans Pelicans during an NBA preseason game at Legacy Arena at BJCC. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images

It’s easier to make a basket than stopping someone from making a basket. Defense is definitely harder than offense, it takes a lot of effort and a lot of heart.

Having both offense and defense are needed to win a championship. But great defense is consistent so in the long run (like a full season and playoff run) teams could overcome some rough offensive nights.

This article first appeared on Stadium Rant and was syndicated with permission.

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