In a stunning display of basketball prowess, Kevin Durant continues to solidify his place as the greatest Team USA men’s basketball player of all time. The Phoenix Suns’ star has been representing the United States of America in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, marking his fourth appearance in the prestigious tournament. Durant’s track record speaks for itself, having helped Team USA secure gold medals in London 2012, Rio 2016, and Tokyo 2020 (held in 2021). Not to mention his triumph in leading the Americans to victory in the 2010 FIBA World Championships in Turkey, now known as the FIBA World Cup.
Durant’s latest milestone came in the form of becoming Team USA’s all-time leading rebounder during the group stage game against Puerto Rico. In a dominating 103-84 win at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille, the 6-foot-11 forward snatched his 126th rebound in American colors, surpassing Carmelo Anthony’s previous record of 125. Despite his historic achievement, Durant remained focused on the ultimate goal of winning the gold medal, showcasing his selfless dedication to the team.
The 35-year-old NBA legend showcased his versatility on the court during the game, finishing with 11 points, four rebounds, three assists, and one steal in just 19 minutes of play. Durant’s exceptional performance only adds to his already stellar reputation as one of the greatest basketball players of his generation. With an unblemished 3-0 record in the group stage, Team USA secured the top spot in Group C and is now gearing up to face Brazil in the quarterfinals at the Accor Arena in Paris on Tuesday, August 6.
Durant’s record-setting spree doesn’t stop at rebounding, as the two-time NBA Finals MVP also holds the title of Team USA’s all-time leading Olympic scorer. Surpassing Carmelo Anthony’s previous record of 336 points during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021), Durant came into the Paris 2024 Games with a total of 435 points. His recent scoring feats against Serbia, South Sudan, and Puerto Rico have pushed his tally to an impressive 483 points, closing in on yet another record held by a WNBA icon.
As the basketball world watches in awe, Kevin Durant continues to etch his name in the annals of Team USA basketball history, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest to ever grace the hardwood. With his unparalleled skillset, unwavering determination, and insatiable hunger for success, Durant remains a force to be reckoned with on the court, paving the way for future generations of aspiring basketball stars to follow in his illustrious footsteps.
