Kevin Durant, the NBA superstar, returned to his roots to witness his alma mater, the Texas Longhorns, face off against the Alabama Crimson Tide in a thrilling NCAA basketball showdown.
The presence of Kevin Durant at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas wasn’t lost on fans or commentators during a recent NCAA Tournament matchup between the Texas Longhorns and the Alabama Crimson Tide.
KD in the house watching his alma mater take on Alabama 🤘 pic.twitter.com/ktVR2R8XTZ
— ESPN (@espn) March 24, 2024
Kevin Durant’s collegiate career at Texas, although brief, was nothing short of spectacular. He spent only one season with the Longhorns but left a lasting mark on the program. During his lone season in 2007, Durant averaged a staggering 25.8 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 1.9 steals and blocks per game while shooting over 47% from the field and 40% from three-point range. These impressive numbers earned him several accolades, including National Freshman of the Year and First-team All-American honours.
Despite his short stint at Texas, Durant’s impact is undeniable. He holds several single-season records for the Longhorns, including the most points scored by a freshman and most points in a single game (43). His electrifying play and scoring prowess captivated audiences and helped elevate the Texas program to national prominence.
Durant’s decision to attend the Texas-Alabama game wasn’t just about basketball. It was a homecoming for the NBA superstar. Born and raised in nearby Seat Pleasant, Maryland, Durant moved to Texas with his family at a young age. He played his high school basketball at Morton Ranch in Katy, Texas, before heading to the University of Texas. His return to Austin signifies a connection to his roots, a chance to witness his former team compete and likely reminisce about his college days.
The sight of Durant cheering on the Longhorns undoubtedly served as an inspiration to the current Texas players. Having a player of Durant’s calibre watching from the stands is a significant motivator. His presence reminds them of the heights achievable through hard work and dedication, and perhaps even ignites a spark to emulate his success.
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