Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant is currently in Las Vegas at Team USA training camp, preparing to help his country secure a gold medal at the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. Despite the Suns’ underwhelming season, Durant remains one of the top players in the league as he approaches his 36th birthday in the 2024-25 season.
While fans often view players like Durant and LeBron James as invincible on the court, even the best athletes can be distracted by external factors. For Durant, one such distraction comes from the presence of celebrities at his games, particularly those he finds attractive.
In a recent appearance on Logan Paul’s *Impaulsive* podcast, Durant opened up about this topic.
“I wouldn’t say distracted, but I do acknowledge them sometimes,” Durant said regarding celebrities attending his games. “Especially if it’s some baddies in the stands for sure.”
Durant specifically mentioned one celebrity who has been a prominent NBA fan.
“When Rihanna walks in, it’s hard now. It’s all the baddies, bro,” Durant said.
Rihanna and Durant have a bit of history, dating back to the 2017 NBA Finals. Rihanna attended Game 1 of the series between the Golden State Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers, seemingly cheering for LeBron James and the Cavs. Some fans interpreted a glance Durant made toward the stands after a successful shot as directed at Rihanna. Regardless of any past tension, it appears there are no lingering hard feelings between the two.
Can the Suns Bounce Back?
Durant and the Suns did not achieve the success they hoped for in the 2023-24 season. The Bradley Beal acquisition proved to be a disaster, and the Suns were swept out of the first round of the playoffs by Anthony Edwards and the emerging Minnesota Timberwolves.
The Suns face challenges in improving their roster around Durant, Beal, and Devin Booker in the near future, especially after losing depth with Eric Gordon signing with the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency.
Despite these setbacks, Durant may channel his frustration into his performance on the Olympic basketball court this summer.
