Despite delivering an outstanding performance in his 2024 Summer Olympic debut, Kevin Durant has made it clear that he does not support the NBA adopting FIBA’s ruleset anytime soon.
In his first game back from injury, Durant dominated, scoring 23 points on an exceptional 7-of-8 shooting, including a perfect 5-of-5 from beyond the arc, leading Team USA to a decisive 110-84 victory over Serbia.
However, when a fan suggested that the NBA should consider adopting some of the rules that differentiate the international game from the American game, Durant was quick to dismiss the idea.
A fan on Twitter, @TylerRelph10, tweeted, “Please @NBA, adopt more @FIBA rules and let us see the best really think the game and play the game like it’s meant to be played.”
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Durant responded bluntly, “I swear yall just be yappin. What rules u wanna see man?”
Relph suggested eliminating the defensive 3-in-the-key rule, believing it would improve ball movement and the pace of play. Durant strongly disagreed, arguing that such a change would actually slow the game down.
“If u want to eliminate defensive 3 seconds then the games will be slower,” Durant explained.
Relph countered, saying the change would lead to better ball movement and reduce offensive stagnation. Durant continued to push back, emphasizing the importance of instinctual play over rigid set plays.
“The beauty of basketball is not callin all them sets but playing off instincts and lettin the talent dictate the game, gettin out in transition, driving and kicking, playing random basketball,” Durant elaborated. “U want a trick play every possession like it’s football. That’s not why our game is beautiful.”
Durant acknowledged that while he desires better ball movement and more effective off-ball cuts, he believes these should happen naturally, within the flow of the game.
“Random basketball!! U not comprehending what I’m saying. U can RANDOMLY set a screen, RANDOMLY back cut, RANDOMLY make a pass to the open man. Focus on what I’m saying,” he urged.
Durant continued to engage with fans on various aspects of the game, ultimately asserting that the NBA needs a balance of structured plays and spontaneous actions.
Given his stellar performance against Serbia, perhaps Durant’s insights should be taken seriously.
His blend of instinctual play and natural talent was on full display, underscoring his belief that the current NBA rules allow for a dynamic and beautiful game.
