The KD series for Nike is one of the most successful basketball shoe lines of all time. The series, as of 2023, is currently in its 16th iteration. Ever since 2012, a special colorway, called “Aunt Pearl,” has been a part of the series. Read on to learn more about Aunt Pearl and Kevin Durant.
Aunt Pearl
Everyone knows the “The Real MVP” speech KD gave when winning his first MVP Trophy. It was dedicated to his mother, whose sacrifices allowed KD to become the all-time great basketball player he is today. But KD’s mom needed help raising Durant, and one of the people that helped her, was KD’s Aunt Pearl. Each day, Aunt Pearl would make KD’s favorite snack, peanut butter, and jelly sandwiches. They would also watch cartoons together. Aunt Pearl and KD would form a bond, an incredibly special bond.
A Vow
Aunt Pearl would suffer from lung cancer later in her life. Her health prevented her from attending KD’s games. In 2000, Aunt Pearl would pass away due to complications from cancer. KD has vowed to keep the memory of his Aunt Pearl alive. In 2012, Nike and KD introduced a pink colorway of the KD 4. It had a pearl printed collar, tongue, and cross-strap. The Aunt Pearl colorway has been a part of the KD line since the 4
Pro Career
KD would be selected by the now defunct Seattle Supersonics with the second pick in the 2007 NBA Draft. His rookie season, and sole season in Seattle, was impressive. He proved to the basketball world that he was a star. He easily brought home the NBA Rookie of the Year award and gave Sonics fans hope for the future.
The hope KD provided Sonics fans was unfortunately short lived. The Seattle Supersonics franchise left Seattle, right after his rookie season, due to disputes with the city over a new stadium to play in. The Sonics, along with their young superstar Durant, would relocate to Oklahoma City and become the Thunder.
KD became a superstar in Oklahoma City. He was a multiple time all-star and brought home an MVP Trophy in 2014. Personal success was achieved by KD as a member of the Thunder. Unfortunately, the Oklahoma City Thunder could not bring home a Championship Trophy while KD was a member of the squad.
Warrior
In 2016, Durant made the biggest decision of his career. When KD decided to join the Golden State Warriors in the summer of 2016 the sports world went mad. Many were excited to see the all-star join the powerhouse team. Many others were critical of the decision. The Warriors already won a title before KD joined, and the Golden State squad that he joined, just eliminated KD and his OKC team from the playoffs just a few months prior.
Despite the criticism, KD’s time in Golden State was stellar. He would lead the Golden State Warriors to back-to-back championships in 2017 and 2018. He also won Finals MVP in both Championship runs. KD only spent three seasons in Golden State, but those three seasons are arguably the best of his career.
Moving On
KD would next join the Brooklyn Nets. Despite having a strong roster around him, KD was not able to achieve playoff success with Brooklyn. He would play for Brooklyn from 2019-2023. In 2023, KD would be traded to the Phoenix Suns. The Suns have been close to winning a championship the last few seasons. It is believed by many in the basketball world that Durant is the missing piece for the Suns. Can KD lead the Phoenix Suns to a championship and earn himself a third ring?
Legacy
Kevin Durant’s ability to score, and score efficiently, is legendary. His height, skill, and work ethic are second to none. KD will go down in history as one of the best basketball players of all time.
- Adam C. Better
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