Kevin Durant Relishes His Return to Chase Center for the 2025 All-Star Game

Kevin Durant is no stranger to the spotlight, and his latest return to the Chase Center for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game is nothing short of emotional. The Phoenix Suns star is back in San Francisco, and trust us, this visit isn’t just any old homecoming. For Durant, this is a deeply personal trip down memory lane. It’s not just the bright lights and familiar faces—this is where it all happened. Durant spent three seasons with the Golden State Warriors, winning two NBA championships and building a legacy that is as solid as it gets. But now, he’s returned to the Bay Area once again, not as a Warrior, but as a legend in his own right.

THIS IS HOME FOR ME

In a candid chat with reporters, Durant made it clear that his connection with Golden State is more than just professional—it’s personal. “Definitely, this is home for me. I got murals on the hallways, what do you mean?” Durant joked with a smile. “I’ve been saying this since I left here, this is always going to be a part of my DNA, it’s in my blood. Finally, people are listening, but I always felt at home here. It’s always been like that.”

There’s no denying that Durant’s time with the Warriors left an indelible mark on the franchise, the fans, and most importantly, on him. He was a key part of a team that dominated the NBA, and every time he steps back into that arena, it’s a reminder of everything he accomplished there. But let’s not forget—it’s also a chance for Durant to relive the glory days and get some well-deserved love from fans who still hold him in high regard.

KD’s 30,000-Point Milestone 

But it’s not just about the chase back to Chase Center. Durant is coming off one of the most historic milestones of his career—scoring 30,000 career points. Only seven other players in NBA history have reached this achievement. The names include LeBron James, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Dirk Nowitzki, and Wilt Chamberlain. To hit that mark at 36 years old is a testament to Durant’s consistency, talent, and longevity. You might even say he’s been a top-tier scorer since day one.

And if you think Durant is just about buckets and stats, think again. Mike Budenholzer, coach of the Suns, gave Durant a glowing review of his scoring ability: “He’s probably the most incredible shooter I’ve ever seen,” Budenholzer said. “I’ve gone up against him many times, so it’s awesome to be on his team now. The way he can elevate and shoot over anyone, his size, his ball handling… if he’s not the best shooter, I’m not sure who is. It’s awesome to be around him every day.”

A LEGACY OF SHADE: KD vs Gary Payton 

Now, we can’t forget Durant’s most recent visit to the Chase Center—the one on January 31st, when he got into a friendly but spicy back-and-forth with none other than Gary Payton, the former Seattle SuperSonics legend. For context, Payton was sitting courtside, right across from the Warriors’ bench, watching his son Gary Payton II in action.

Durant and Payton exchanged playful banter about their respective eras in the NBA, with Payton taking jabs at Durant’s offensive game. “I’m the point guard, and you’re the scorer,” Payton told Durant.

But Durant wasn’t having it. “Check the tape, I do it all,” Durant shot back, effortlessly putting Payton in his place.

It was a hilarious moment, and it encapsulated the tension that’s always been there between the old school and the new school in basketball. Durant wasn’t just playing to score points; he was playing to prove a point. It’s this type of mindset that makes Durant such a feared competitor in the NBA. He’s constantly motivated to show the world that he’s more than just a scorer—he’s a force of nature on both sides of the floor. Even when he’s on the other side of a heated exchange, it’s clear: Durant doesn’t back down.

The Phoenix Suns & The Future

Now, let’s talk about Durant’s current squad—the Phoenix Suns. It’s been a wild ride for him since leaving the Warriors, but it’s clear that he’s found his place with the Suns, and their title aspirations are legit. His teammate, Devin Booker, who also made the All-Star cut this year, has been instrumental in helping Durant settle in. The two are expected to be part of the NBA’s elite duo for the next few years, and with Durant’s leadership, the Suns could be serious contenders for years to come.

But with the rumors swirling about his potential trade before the deadline, there’s been some controversy over whether Durant will stay with Phoenix long-term. Will he? Won’t he? The drama surrounding Durant’s future is palpable, and fans are glued to every move he makes, every press conference he gives, and every moment he shares on social media.

Coach Steve Kerr’s Thoughts on Durant

But the one person who knows Durant best is Steve Kerr, the Warriors’ coach who has seen it all—coaching Durant to two championships and overseeing his development as one of the most lethal players in the game. Kerr doesn’t mince words when talking about Durant’s skill set: “His ability to shoot over any defense, any defender, there’s never been anyone who could do that at his size,” Kerr said. “He’s a unique package. I think he loves basketball more than anything. He works hard. And that’s what I loved about having him here—watching him perfect his craft after practice. It was mesmerizing.”

This is the ultimate compliment from someone who’s seen the best of the best. Kerr isn’t just talking about Durant’s physical abilities; he’s talking about the work ethic, the grit, and the heart that make Durant so special.

“THIS IS MY HOME” – KD’s Emotional Return 

As Durant gears up for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game, it’s hard to ignore the emotional weight of this return. This isn’t just another game—this is Durant’s chance to say thank you to the fans, the Warriors, and the city of San Francisco. Durant’s time with Golden State shaped his career in ways that no one will ever forget. From the championships to the iconic moments, Durant has left his mark, and he’s not afraid to acknowledge it. “This is home for me,” Durant said, his voice full of nostalgia. “Three years here was such a big part of my life. So yeah, this is a homecoming.”

And let’s face it—when Durant is back in Chase Center, you can expect fireworks. Whether it’s taking on the best players in the league during the All-Star Game, reminiscing about his glory days, or even giving fans a taste of what’s next, Durant is always ready to remind everyone why he’s one of the best to ever do it.

So, as Durant steps back into Chase Center, it’s not just a return for the All-Star Game—it’s a celebration of his legacy, his journey, and his relentless pursuit of greatness. Get ready, because if there’s one thing we know about Kevin Durant, it’s that he’s always looking for ways to leave the world in awe.

Who’s ready to watch KD put on a show in the 2025 All-Star Game? Grab your popcorn—it’s going to be a wild ride. 🌟