Houston Rockets All-Star forward Kevin Durant expressed admiration for Jayden Daniels, the standout NFL quarterback for the Washington Commanders, during a recent appearance at the FanDuel Boardroom conference. Held alongside FanDuel CEO Christian Genetski and New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers, the event highlighted athletes promoting the expansion of legal sports betting across the country. Durant’s comments featured a mix of insights into the betting experience and respect for Daniels’ rookie achievements.
Durant Highlights the Fan and Player Experience in Sports Betting
Durant, 36, acknowledged the challenges some face with sports betting, including the frustration of losses. He emphasized the importance of responsible betting and fan engagement, noting his own role in encouraging research and accountability within the community.
“I want to see you succeed in your sports betting, and many people got emotional when they put these bets in,”
Durant stated. He added,
“A lot of times they ain’t doing their research and I’m holding people accountable on Twitter and they enjoy the fan and player experience because they get heckled by me.”
Connection Between Malik Nabers and Washington Commanders Quarterback
The conversation shifted to Durant’s hometown team, the Washington Commanders, part of the NFC East division and rivals to Malik Nabers’ New York Giants. Nabers shared a close bond with Commanders’ starting quarterback Jayden Daniels, reflecting on their shared time playing college football with the LSU Tigers during the 2022-23 seasons. Nabers commented with a lighthearted tone,
“Nah, it’s hard to talk trash. You got my best friend at quarterback.”
Durant Applauds Daniels’ Rookie Season Success
Durant praised Daniels for his impressive first year leading Washington to a 12-5 record and an appearance in the NFC Championship game. Daniels threw for 3,568 yards and 25 touchdowns throughout the season, culminating in being awarded the 2024 AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in February. Their enduring friendship remained evident despite playing for competing NFL teams.
Sportsmanship Displayed in Giants vs. Commanders Matchups
During the 2023 NFL regular season, the Giants and Commanders faced off twice. Before their initial game in Week 2 on September 15, Nabers and Daniels took the moment to connect and exchange jerseys, underscoring mutual respect beyond the rivalry. Their ongoing relationship highlights the positive camaraderie between professional athletes, even when competing on opposing sides.
Significance of Durant’s Recognition of Jayden Daniels
Kevin Durant’s public praise of Jayden Daniels underscores the growing influence of NFL rookies making immediate impacts, while also reflecting Durant’s commitment to engaging with younger athletes and upholding the integrity of the sports community. As Daniels continues his NFL career, such support from established stars like Durant could contribute to his rising profile and inspire further excellence on and off the field.