“I’ve Accepted That Most People Will Die Haters” – Kevin Durant on Dealing With Criticism

Kevin Durant has long been a polarizing figure in the NBA. Despite being one of the most gifted scorers in basketball history and achieving numerous accolades, including two championships and multiple MVP awards, his legacy remains complicated. Durant, now in his 17th season, is no stranger to criticism and often takes to social media to address it directly. His recent tweet about handling haters reveals a sharp-edged mindset, offering a glimpse into how he copes with constant scrutiny.

Durant’s Cold-Blooded Response

Durant’s now-viral tweet came in response to online chatter surrounding his trade from the Brooklyn Nets to the Phoenix Suns. Some Nets fans celebrated the haul of draft picks Brooklyn received in exchange for Durant, prompting the 36-year-old star to share his thoughts on how he handles the relentless criticism.

In his words, “I’ve accepted that most people will die haters.” This blunt statement reflects Durant’s acceptance of the negativity that has surrounded much of his career, whether fair or not.

KD’s Love-Hate Relationship With Social Media

Durant is infamous for engaging with fans and critics alike on platforms like X (formerly Twitter). His confrontations often stem from posts about his career decisions, such as leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder for the Golden State Warriors or his tenure with the Brooklyn Nets. While some view his social media presence as refreshingly candid, others see it as overly defensive.

For instance, when a fan recently questioned why Durant assumes everyone who disagrees with him is a hater, Durant didn’t hesitate to respond. This back-and-forth dynamic has become a hallmark of Durant’s online persona, as he frequently defends his legacy and decisions.

A Legacy That Divides

Durant’s career is undeniably remarkable, yet it remains one of the most debated in NBA history. Many fans and analysts cite his decision to join the 73-win Warriors in 2016 as the turning point in his legacy. After spending nine seasons with the Thunder, Durant’s move was criticized as a betrayal and a shortcut to success.

Although Durant won two championships and two Finals MVPs with Golden State, the narrative surrounding those achievements has always been clouded. Critics argue that he joined a team already poised for greatness, diminishing the weight of his contributions.

Subsequent stints with the Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns have added to the complexity of Durant’s legacy. Injuries, failed playoff runs, and constant roster upheaval have made it challenging for Durant to match the success he achieved with the Warriors.

Still Dominating at 36

Even at 36 years old, Durant continues to perform at an elite level. This season, he’s averaging:

• 25.8 points per game
• 6.7 rebounds per game
• 3.1 assists per game

While these numbers reaffirm his status as one of the league’s best, they do little to sway the public perception of his career. For many, Durant’s controversial moves and his vocal defense of his legacy overshadow his undeniable talent.

Acceptance of a Divided Legacy

Durant’s recent comments suggest that he’s come to terms with the criticism that has followed him throughout his career. Rather than seeking universal approval, Durant seems to have embraced the idea that some fans and analysts will never view him favorably.

While his legacy may remain divisive, Durant’s impact on the game is indisputable. As one of the most skilled scorers the league has ever seen, his place in the Hall of Fame is assured. However, whether his career is remembered more for his on-court brilliance or the controversies surrounding it will ultimately depend on the perspective of each fan.

For Durant, though, it appears he’s made peace with the fact that, for some, his greatness will always come with an asterisk. “Most people will die haters” might not be the sentiment fans want to hear, but for Durant, it’s a reality he’s learned to accept.