Kevin Durant's Alleged Burner Account Ignites NBA Controversy
Kevin Durant, the Houston Rockets and Team USA forward, finds himself embroiled in yet another social media storm, this time surrounding an alleged burner account on X. The account, which has gone viral, reportedly features posts criticizing current Rockets players, including all-star Alperen Sengun and starter Jabari Smith Jr., raising questions about Durant's commitment and team dynamics as Houston battles for playoff positioning.
Durant's Evasive Response to Media Queries
At his first media availability after the NBA All-Star weekend on Wednesday, Durant skillfully dodged questions about the alleged account. "I know you got to ask these questions, but I'm not here to get into Twitter nonsense," Durant told reporters, according to Kelly Iko of The Athletic. "I'm just here to focus on the season, keep it pushing." While not a direct denial, his comments suggest a desire to avoid distractions, emphasizing team unity. "My teammates know what it is," Durant added. "We've been locked in the whole season. Enjoyed our break. Had a great practice today, looking forward to the road trip."
History of Social Media Controversies
Durant has a well-documented history of outspoken behavior on social media, often engaging with critics or sports topics anonymously. He previously admitted to using burner accounts to defend himself after his contentious departure from the Oklahoma City Thunder, citing a need for authenticity. This latest saga revolves around an X account called @GetHigher77, believed by some to be a private group chat involving Durant and friends. Although unverified, the account's content has captivated fans since it surfaced during All-Star weekend in Los Angeles, where Durant made his 15th appearance, trailing only legends like LeBron James and Kobe Bryant.
Allegations and Team Impact
The alleged account includes harsh critiques of Rockets personnel and former associates. For instance, one tweet labeled the Rockets a "s*** ass team" and questioned Sengun's shooting and defense. Another called Smith "lowkey r*******," while also taking jabs at James Harden and former teammates like Devin Booker and Frank Vogel. This comes as Houston struggles, having lost three of their last five games before the break, including a notable defeat to Charlotte where Durant was heard on microphones urging Sengun to "play some defence." The team has faced challenges with injuries, such as Fred VanVleet's ACL tear and Steven Adams' season-ending setback, yet Durant continues to perform at a superstar level.
Broader Implications for the Rockets
As the Rockets sit fourth in the Western Conference and seventh overall in the NBA, this controversy could potentially disrupt locker room chemistry. Durant's past moves, from Oklahoma City to Golden State, Brooklyn, Phoenix, and now Houston, have often been met with fan backlash, and this new saga might test his welcome in Texas. With the playoffs approaching, how Durant and the team navigate these rumors will be crucial for their success on the court.
