Born: September 29, 1988
Next on the countdown of DC’s top 25 athletes under 25, is the 20-year old, former Naismith trophy winner, and first team All-American, Kevin Durant.
I don’t think there is anybody out there (except DP) who can deny Durant’s talent. Since bursting on the NBA scene at age 19, Durant, has led the Supersonics/Thunder in scoring each of his two seasons. Burdened with the task of savior to the worst team in the NBA is no easy task, but at age 20 Durant has proven himself as a leader. Even as a second year player, he has earned the reputation as a clutch shooter.
He is unequivocally the best player to enter the NBA in the last three years, and undoubtedly has the brightest future. In his rookie season, Durant averaged 20 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists, which were good enough to win rookie of the year honors. However, he shot just a shade above 40% from the field and a less than stellar 28% from three point land. Last season, Durant adjusted to NBA defenses, which in turn led to a rise in his field goal percentage from inside and outside the arc, (48% from inside, 42% from outside). The increase in field goal percentage correlated to Durant’s ppg. (points per game) to climb to 25.5, good for sixth in the Association.
While defense will never be a strength in his game, the 6’9, 205 pound Durant has the potential to be the best scorer in the NBA when his time comes. As for now, he will have to wait while Kobe and LeBron have their way with the rest of the league. Look for Durant to be apart of USA’s 2010 FIBA team as they strive to dethrone the Spaniards who won the tournament in 2006.
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