While the famous adage “defense wins championships” has long been a sports world mantra, Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant offers a contrasting perspective. In a recent episode of Netflix’s exclusive NBA show “Starting Five,” the superstar forward presented a provocative argument, emphasizing the paramount importance of offense.
Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) reacts with center Alperen Sengun (28) after a play during the third quarter against the Utah Jazz at Toyota Center.
“You have to score baskets if you want to win a championship,” Durant stated. “Playing defense, we can get any one of y’all in here to bend your legs, not touch the basketball, slide left and right.”
This statement isn’t a dismissal of defense, but rather a emphasis on the irreplaceable nature of offensive skill. The implication is that while almost anyone can be taught to play hard, disciplined defense, the ability to create and finish scoring opportunities at an elite level is what truly separates the greats.
Durant makes this point as he enters his 19th NBA season and his first with the Houston Rockets, seeking a fresh start after underwhelming seasons with the Phoenix Suns. At 36 years old, he still possesses the superstar talent to anchor an offense, averaging 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists across 62 appearances last season.
Houston, coming off its best season (52 wins) since 2019-20, sees Durant as the final piece to push them past the first round—where their season ended in a tough seven-game series against the Golden State Warriors. Durant’s new chapter with the Rockets will officially begin with a poignant reunion on the road against his former team, the Oklahoma City Thunder.