Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant, who has been a dominant presence in the NBA since his debut in 2007, recently announced that next season will be his final one. Known as the Slim Reaper, Durant shared the news in a viral video, playfully chanting,
“One more year! One more year,”
signaling the end of his near two-decade career. This announcement marks a significant moment as the NBA prepares for an era without one of its most prolific scorers.
Throughout his career, Durant has earned four scoring titles, 16 All-Star selections, MVP and Finals MVP awards, and is celebrated as the most decorated Olympian in U.S. Men’s Basketball history with four Gold medals. His farewell after next season will mark the closing chapter on a remarkable basketball legacy.
Hall of Fame Career Secured for Kevin Durant
As Durant approaches retirement, his future induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is virtually guaranteed. Since his rookie year, Durant has consistently been a top scorer in the NBA, averaging at least 25 points per game for 17 seasons, a milestone surpassed only by LeBron James, who has achieved it 20 times. His scoring ability ranks among the greatest in league history.
Rockets guard Amen Thompson praised Durant’s enduring excellence, stating,
“He’s one of the best players ever, you know, just what he’s able to do, what he’s still able to do at such a high level. It’s just like crazy to watch [him play].”
On February 10, Durant reached a career milestone by scoring 20 points or more for the 1,000th time, joining an elite group including LeBron James, Karl Malone, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Having just appeared in his 16th All-Star game, Durant currently leads the Rockets averaging 26 points per outing.
Rockets head coach Ime Udoka observed Durant’s consistent performance after the All-Star break, noting,
“There’s no dropoff. It’s the same ol’ Kevin, efficient.”
Udoka added,
“It’s good for the group to have that [in Houston], and it’s rubbed off on our young guys. He goes about every day the same as he always has.”
Kevin Durant Deserves a Celebrated Farewell Tour
As the NBA has increasingly embraced farewell tours for its greats, many expect Durant to receive a similar send-off during the 2026-27 season. Ranked as the league’s sixth all-time leading scorer, Durant’s impact on basketball has been profound, and he may still add to his record book before retiring.
Durant’s notable rivalry with LeBron James throughout the 2010s shaped one of the most compelling storylines in NBA history. Additionally, he played a key role on the 73-9 Golden State Warriors, one of the most dominant teams ever assembled.
Known for his versatile three-level scoring ability, Durant has cemented his name among the sport’s legends. If he is committed to playing one more season, a farewell tour would allow fans and the league alike to honor his tremendous contributions to the game and celebrate his extraordinary career.
Kevin Durant says he has 1 more season in him 👀
(h/t @LogionNoops)pic.twitter.com/QcpTM2NZJm
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) February 20, 2026
KEVIN DURANT. DAGGER.
FIRST GAME BACK FROM BREAK AND THE REAPER DROPS 35 PTS 🗡️ pic.twitter.com/gOVfsyPZ8W
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 20, 2026
Ime Udoka on how Kevin Durant’s looked in Houston compared to Brooklyn:
“There’s no dropoff. It’s the same ol’ Kevin, efficient. It’s good for the group to have that (in Houston), and it’s rubbed off on our young guys. He goes about every day the same as he always has.” pic.twitter.com/xENuXS8fr1
— SleeperRockets (@SleeperRockets) November 2, 2025
