Kevin Durant’s MVP acceptance speech in 2014 was one of the most memorable moments of K.D.’s career. He told his mother, Wanda Durant, she was the “real MVP” for sacrificing to provide for her sons. It was beautiful.
The Warriors star’s father, Wayne Pratt, wasn’t a big part of his life growing up. He left the family when K.D. was only 1, and throughout the first 10 years of his life Pratt came in and out of the family. When the youngster grew up, however, the father and son reconciled, and today they have a strong relationship.
In a post and video on The Undefeated, Pratt penned a letter to Durant on Father’s Day. Pratt shared regret about missing out on Durant’s childhood and gratitude that the two were able to make amends.
“I regret missing out on your first day of school, your first haircut, holidays and the first day you picked up a basketball,” Pratt wrote. “But I thank God daily for creating the opportunity for us to reconnect. I’m so thankful for you opening your heart at such a tender time. Every parent-child relationship has its ups and downs and we are no exception. I feel fortunate that we have learned how to successfully navigate life’s mistakes.”
He went on to thank K.D. for forgiving him.
Pratt helped the former Texas Longhorns standout make his much-maligned free agency decision in 2016. He advised Durant to “be selfish.” Durant clearly accepted that advice, electing to sign with Golden State. The move effectively ushered in the “villain” phase of Durant’s career.
Durant, Warriors Rolling
The Warriors cruised to a 4-0 win in a tighter-than-expected NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the fourth straight Finals matchup between the two squads. Now, Golden State is relishing in its accomplishments. The win marked the franchise’s third title in four years.
Durant won his second straight Larry O’Brien Trophy and his second straight Bill Russell Finals MVP Trophy. He is expected to opt out of his contract and restructure his deal, but it would be a shock if he and Golden State weren’t to come to an amenable agreement.
