For the first time in the 2025-26 NBA season, Devin Booker and Kevin Durant met as opponents on Monday night, February 9, 2026 — marking the end of their 2.5-year partnership with the Phoenix Suns after Durant’s summer trade to the Houston Rockets.
The game carried heavy emotional weight. Booker and Durant were once seen as the perfect offensive pairing — two elite scorers with complementary styles who led Phoenix to back-to-back playoff appearances (including a Western Conference semifinals run). But injuries, chemistry issues, and roster instability prevented them from reaching the Finals together, and their final season in Phoenix ended without postseason play.
Rockets Edge Suns 100-97 — Durant’s Clutch Three Seals It
In a tight, competitive game at Footprint Center, Durant delivered the dagger: a clutch three-pointer late in the fourth quarter that proved to be the game-winner, giving Houston the 100-97 victory. He punctuated the shot by waving goodbye toward the Suns bench — a moment that quickly went viral.
Durant finished with his usual efficient stat line (exact numbers not specified in reports), while Booker led Phoenix with his trademark scoring output but couldn’t match the late-game heroics.
Booker’s Heartfelt Postgame Tribute to Durant
After the final buzzer, Duane Rankin of Arizona Central asked Booker what it felt like facing his former co-star and close friend. Booker’s response was raw, respectful, and emotional:
“It’s always a pleasure. He’s done so much for this game. He’s done so much for me personally. Any chance I can be out there with one of my idols, somebody that I have a high respect for, there’s nothing like it. That’s all you can ask for.”
The quote captures the deep mutual admiration between the two. Durant mentored Booker during their time together, and Booker has repeatedly credited KD for helping elevate his game — both on and off the court.
The Final Meeting This Season
Booker and Durant will face off one more time in the regular season: April 7, 2026, when the Rockets visit Phoenix. That game could mark the first time Durant plays in front of the Suns home crowd since the trade — a potentially emotional farewell in the building where they once dreamed of championships together.
Rockets (32-19) vs. Suns (record not specified)
Houston remains firmly in the top tier of the West, with Durant continuing to play at an elite level in his first season with the team. The win over Phoenix keeps them in contention for home-court advantage in the first round and reinforces their status as a legitimate threat.
For Booker and the Suns, the loss stings — but the respect between the two stars remains intact.
NBA fans — did Durant’s wave goodbye after the game-winner feel iconic or bittersweet? What did you think of Booker’s heartfelt comments? And who wins their final matchup on April 7? Drop your thoughts below — this rivalry chapter is far from over.