Kevin Durant, an NBA icon for 17 years, has never forgotten the people who shaped his early journey. Among them is his high school teammate and close friend, Taishi Ito, a dedicated point guard from Japan. Durant honors their friendship by featuring Ito’s name on the sole of his first KD1 signature shoe, a lasting tribute reflecting their shared dedication and teamwork.
Early Bonding at Montrose Christian School
Durant and Ito first became roommates during Durant’s senior year after transferring to Montrose Christian from Oak Hill Academy. Ito, who later played four years at the University of Portland, was known for his hard work and discipline. Together, they committed to intense practice routines, often waking early to train and staying up late sharing stories and pushing each other’s limits on the court.
Shared Training and Respect on the Court
As detailed by ESPN writer Ryan Hockensmith in 2023, Durant and Ito’s friendship grew around their basketball ambitions. They played full-court, one-on-one games where Durant, despite his height advantage, respected Ito by not posting up his six-foot friend. Their mutual discipline and respect helped forge a bond that transcended the game.
The Meaning Behind the KD1 Sole
Released in 2008, the KD1 shoe carried a special message on its sole, listing key elements that influenced Durant’s rise. Among phrases like “40 minutes early to practice,”
“Back in the gym after games,”
and
“Practice on days off … Sunday sessions,”
the names “Ito” and “Grandma” also appear prominently, honoring Ito and the host family who supported them both during their time in the United States.
According to Hockensmith, Ito was initially surprised to learn that his name appeared on every pair of KD1 shoes, thinking Durant had personalized only a single pair as a gift. This gesture illustrated Durant’s commitment to acknowledging those who played pivotal roles in his growth, immortalizing his former roommate in a unique way.
Enduring Friendship Beyond Basketball
Despite their separate paths, with Durant advancing to the NBA and Ito continuing in college basketball, their friendship remained strong. Durant’s participation in Team USA during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics provided an opportunity to reconnect during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the deep personal connection beyond their athletic careers.
Recognition of Support Throughout Durant’s Career
Durant’s gratitude for those who influenced his career is well-known, most famously when he acknowledged his mother with the phrase “You the real MVP” after earning the NBA Most Valuable Player Award in 2014. Similarly, the inclusion of Ito’s name on the KD1 shoes serves as a testament to Durant’s appreciation for his early support system and the individuals who helped him realize his dreams.