Kevin Durant crucifies the Suns with a huge buzzer-beater

Kevin Durant struck again in the clutch. The 37-year-old legend hit a 3-pointer with 1.1 seconds on the clock to give the Houston Rockets a victory over the Phoenix Suns (100-97) on Monday night. A basket that had a special flavor for the forward, who was facing his former team.

Durant finished the game with 26 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists, shooting 9-of-21 from the field. Jabari Smith Jr. added 17 points and 7 rebounds, while Amen Thompson contributed 17 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. On Phoenix’s side, Devin Booker led the offense with 27 points and 3 assists, supported by Dillon Brooks and his 15 points.

« They kicked me out »: Durant settles scores

After the game, Durant didn’t hide his satisfaction at beating his former team. « Absolutely, » he said when asked if this victory had more flavor. « A place I didn’t want to leave. »

The former MVP continued his criticism of the Suns organization: « It feels good to play against a team that kicked you out and made you the scapegoat for all their problems. And it hurts because I put all my effort, love and attention towards the Suns, the Phoenix area and Arizona in general. »

Durant had spent two and a half seasons in Phoenix after his trade from the Brooklyn Nets in February 2023. Despite two All-Star Game selections, the team never lived up to expectations, losing in the first round of the playoffs in 2023-2024 and completely missing the playoffs last season.

This victory allows the Rockets to improve their record to 22 wins and 11 losses, maintaining their fifth place in the West. The Suns fall to 21-15 and remain seventh. Durant had already shined in his first matchup against Phoenix this season, recording 28 points, 4 rebounds and 8 assists. A revenge that confirms the star still has « gas in the tank » despite being 37 years old.