IT IS DONE: Phoenix Suns star player Kevin Durant stuns fans and Leaves head coach Mike Budenholzer speechless with major announcement concerning…

Phoenix Suns Star Kevin Durant Stuns Fans and Leaves Head Coach Mike Budenholzer Speechless With Major Announcement Concerning His Future and the Team’s Direction

Phoenix, AZ — April 11, 2025

In a move that no one saw coming, Phoenix Suns superstar Kevin Durant delivered a stunning announcement on Thursday that left fans in disbelief and newly appointed head coach Mike Budenholzer completely speechless.

Speaking at what was expected to be a routine postseason media session, Durant dropped a bombshell that has already begun reshaping the narrative surrounding the Suns’ offseason. With a calm yet serious tone, Durant stood before reporters and shared what he called “one of the most important decisions” of his career.

“After a lot of reflection, conversation with my family, and deep thought about my future in the game,” Durant began, “I’ve decided that next season will be my last in the NBA.”

Gasps echoed throughout the room as the 36-year-old forward continued. “This league has given me everything. I’ve grown as a player, a man, and a competitor. But after 18 seasons, I believe it’s time to start planning for what comes next.”

Durant’s announcement comes just days after the Suns were eliminated in a hard-fought second-round playoff series. Despite putting up elite numbers—averaging 26.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists this season—Durant admitted that the grind of the NBA has taken a toll both physically and mentally.

“I still love the game,” he said, “but I’ve given my all, and I want to go out on my own terms.”

Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer, who was introduced just weeks ago following the departure of Frank Vogel, was said to be “completely caught off guard” by the announcement. Team sources claim Durant informed Budenholzer just moments before the press conference, leading to an emotional behind-the-scenes conversation.

“He’s one of the greatest to ever play this game,” Budenholzer later told reporters. “To have the chance to coach Kevin Durant, even for one season, is an honor. I respect his decision fully, though I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t shocked.”

Durant also made it clear that he intends to pour everything he has into the 2025 season. “This isn’t a farewell tour,” he said. “This is about chasing one more ring. I want to help bring a title to Phoenix—something this city and these fans truly deserve.”

Fans flooded social media with reactions ranging from heartbreak to gratitude. Many expressed hope that Durant’s final season would be a memorable one, possibly capped off with the elusive championship that has escaped the Suns for decades.

Durant’s legacy is already secure—an MVP, two-time NBA champion, and four-time scoring champ—but the announcement adds a new layer of urgency to the Suns’ roster decisions this summer. With Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal still forming a powerful core, the front office may go all-in to build a title contender around the veteran superstar in his final campaign.

As Durant prepares for his last ride, one thing is certain: the 2025 season just became must-watch basketball.