NBA star Durant to join Houston Rockets in blockbuster trade from Suns

NBA superstar Kevin Durant is set to join the Houston Rockets in a major trade deal that will see him leave the Phoenix Suns, according to multiple U.S. media reports.

The 36-year-old forward, a two-time NBA champion and four-time Olympic gold medalist, will officially move to Houston at the beginning of July in a transaction involving eight players. As part of the deal, the Phoenix Suns will acquire guard Jalen Green, forward Dillon Brooks, the 10th pick in Wednesday’s NBA Draft, and five future second-round picks.

Speaking at a media event in New York on Sunday, Durant confirmed the move, telling reporter Kay Adams: “Being part of the Houston Rockets, I’m looking forward to it. Crazy, crazy last couple of weeks, but I’m glad it’s over with. They had a great season last year. Love their leadership. I felt like I’d be a good addition.”

Durant, the 2014 NBA Most Valuable Player, averaged 26.6 points, six rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game last season. Despite his efforts, the Suns finished 11th in the Western Conference and missed the playoffs.

The Rockets, on the other hand, enjoyed a strong season, finishing second in the West but falling in the first round of the playoffs. They are led by head coach Ime Udoka, who recently signed a long-term extension. Durant and Udoka previously worked together during their time with the Brooklyn Nets and Team USA.

Durant, who won his NBA titles with the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and 2018—earning Finals MVP in both—ranks seventh on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. His addition is expected to bolster the Rockets’ championship ambitions and strengthen their position as a top contender in the West.