The state of Oklahoma, and the city of Oklahoma City are still shocked from the departure of Kevin Durant. As the ashes of burnt jerseys start to blow away in the wind, Thunder fans must find a way to cope without their MVP, Durant. In a smaller market like Oklahoma, the close-knit community will obviously affected, especially when their star leaves the city. With that day marking a big day in Oklahoma sports, Sam Presti held a press conference to discuss Durant’s decision to leave to the Golden State Warriors.
Durant was drafted by the Seattle Sonics in 2007, who later moved to Oklahoma City in 2008, where Durant spent 8 years of his career. Oklahoma is essentially like a second home for the former MVP Durant, but he made the decision to move on to the ‘next step’. Presti says that although most fans are angered by Durant’s decision, they should be respectful and thankful. According to Royce Young of ESPN:
Presti: “I think he helped Oklahoma City and Oklahoma in many ways … we need to be thankful of that.”
— Royce Young (@royceyoung) July 4, 2016
Presti: “We worked together nine years. I have nothing but respect for him.”
— Royce Young (@royceyoung) July 4, 2016
Presti: “We worked together nine years. I have nothing but respect for him.”
— Royce Young (@royceyoung) July 4, 2016
With Sam Presti and the Oklahoma City staff now focused on the future, instead of the past, where Durant is, they will shift their attention to all-star point guard Russell Westbrook. Westbrook is set to be a free agent next year and with Kevin Durant leaving, there’s already indications that he won’t sign an extension with the Thunder. With the Thunder exploring their options with Westbrook, a trade opportunity might arise. Dark days are ahead for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
