Phoenix Suns Small Forward Kevin Durant Has Done it Again, making major Announcement, Head coach Vacant React shock…see more

Phoenix Suns Small Forward Kevin Durant Has Done It Again, Making Major Announcement — Head Coach Vacancy Magnifies Shock

Phoenix, AZ – May 9, 2025 — NBA superstar Kevin Durant has once again shaken the basketball world — but this time, not with a thunderous dunk or game-winning shot. The 36-year-old Phoenix Suns small forward made a major announcement Friday morning that sent shockwaves through the organization and left many wondering about the future of the franchise, which is currently operating without a head coach.

Durant, a two-time NBA champion and future Hall of Famer, stepped to the podium at the Suns’ practice facility in a surprise press conference, flanked by team owner Mat Ishbia and General Manager James Jones. The atmosphere was tense, with media speculation already swirling due to the Suns’ recent playoff elimination and the ongoing search for a new head coach following the dismissal of Frank Vogel just two weeks prior.

But no one could have anticipated what came next.

“After 17 seasons in this league, I’ve decided to walk away from the game of basketball,” Durant announced calmly. “Today, I’m officially retiring from the NBA.”

Gasps echoed through the room as journalists scrambled to process the news. Durant, one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history, had given no prior indication of such a dramatic decision. His announcement comes just days after he averaged 27.8 points per game in the Suns’ first-round playoff exit — a clear sign that he still had elite-level basketball left in him.

“I still love the game,” Durant added. “But it’s time. I’ve given everything I have to basketball — my heart, my body, my soul. Now it’s time for a new chapter.”

Durant’s unexpected retirement comes at a moment of instability for the Suns, who were already dealing with internal pressure to rebuild around a core that also includes Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. Without a head coach currently in place, the team has no official voice at the helm to respond — but the shockwaves were immediate within the organization.

General Manager James Jones, visibly stunned, took the podium after Durant and struggled to find the words.

“Kevin Durant is one of the greatest to ever play the game,” Jones said. “This wasn’t something we saw coming — and honestly, we’re still processing it. But we support his decision. He’s earned the right to walk away on his terms.”

Durant’s career is nothing short of legendary. A 14-time All-Star, 4-time scoring champion, and 2-time NBA Finals MVP, he has played for the Seattle SuperSonics (later the Oklahoma City Thunder), Golden State Warriors, Brooklyn Nets, and most recently, the Suns. His move to Phoenix in 2023 was seen as the franchise’s final push toward an elusive NBA title, but despite a formidable roster, the Suns failed to reach the Finals during his tenure.

As news of his retirement spread, tributes poured in from across the league. LeBron James posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Much respect, KD. One of the coldest to ever do it. Enjoy what’s next.”

Golden State teammate Stephen Curry added: “Forever grateful for what we did together. Wishing you peace and purpose in retirement.”

Durant’s decision leaves the Suns with difficult questions about the direction of the franchise. With a head coaching vacancy and now the departure of their veteran leader, the pressure is squarely on the front office to find a new identity.

“Kevin meant more than stats or wins,” Jones said. “He brought wisdom, leadership, and an unmatched work ethic. Whoever becomes our next head coach has big shoes to fill — not just because of the roster, but because of what KD brought to the culture.”

Durant ended the press conference with a heartfelt message to fans.

“To the fans in Phoenix — thank you for embracing me. It didn’t end how we all wanted, but I’ll always be proud of the effort, the grind, and the passion we shared. To my teammates — thank you for the battles. And to the game — I’ll always love you. But it’s time for me to step back and live life outside the hardwood.”

With his retirement, Durant leaves the NBA with over 28,000 career points, two Olympic gold medals, and a legacy that transcends championships.

For now, the Suns — and the basketball world — are left reflecting on the sudden departure of one of the game’s all-time greats, and bracing for what comes next in a franchise suddenly at a crossroads.