Kevin Durant’s influence in the NBA transcends mere performance, underscoring the respect he commands among players. During the 2023-24 season, as the Phoenix Suns struggled to build a competitive roster around Durant, one notable attempt was made to acquire Italian forward Simone Fontecchio. Fontecchio recently revealed that Durant personally acknowledged their efforts to bring him onto the Suns roster, highlighting the esteem in which Durant holds him.
Simone Fontecchio, who plays for the Italian national basketball team, shared details of a conversation with Durant after Fontecchio’s trade to the Detroit Pistons. The encounter occurred during a game between Detroit and Phoenix, when Durant approached him during a break and conveyed the Suns’ earnest attempt to add Fontecchio to their squad.
“I was just got traded to the Pistons, and one of the first few games that I played with Detroit was against Phoenix, where Kevin Durant was playing at that time. During a break in the game, Durant came up to me and told me, ‘We tried everything we could to get you here, but we couldn’t do it.’ It was a great show of respect from a champion of the game and it made me realize how much he thought of me.”
—Simone Fontecchio, Italian National Team Player
This admission reveals a significant moment in Fontecchio’s career, which after years of limited recognition, has begun to flourish. Despite entering the 2015 NBA Draft, Fontecchio went undrafted in a deep field and initially focused on building his reputation in Italy, where he became a three-time Italian league champion.
Fontecchio’s move to the NBA in 2022 marked a turning point, as he gradually established himself within the league. His second year in Salt Lake City improved his visibility, and his performance over the subsequent 16 months with Detroit has raised his profile considerably, making him a sought-after player among NBA teams.
Kevin Durant’s Prospects with the Houston Rockets
Following his exit from the Golden State Warriors, Durant has experienced a lengthy title drought lasting over six years. His stints with the Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns have not fulfilled championship aspirations, leaving him eager for a fresh start. The recent signing with the Houston Rockets offers Durant the chance to reignite his career with a team that, while not immediate contenders, is well-positioned to build toward postseason success.
The Rockets have constructed a roster centered around young athletic talent, including Amen Thompson and Tari Eason, who provide defensive prowess and energy. Point center Alperen Sengun, who recently made his All-Star debut, will lead the offense, supported by stingy wing defender Dorian Finney-Smith. The team also boasts a formidable center rotation featuring Steven Adams and Clint Capela, regarded as one of the NBA’s strongest.
This environment aims to leverage Durant’s offensive mastery while surrounding him with complementary players, enhancing Houston’s chances for a deep playoff run in the near future.
Simone Fontecchio’s Journey and Recognition in the NBA
Simone Fontecchio’s path to NBA relevance was marked by perseverance and steady growth. Despite the initial setback of going undrafted, he built a distinguished career in Italy before making the leap to the NBA. His development with the Detroit Pistons demonstrated his ability to contribute meaningfully on both ends of the court, earning admiration from elite players like Durant.
Durant’s acknowledgment not only reflects Fontecchio’s rising stock but also signals the competitive dynamics within the NBA, where teams actively pursue versatile players to strengthen their rosters. For Fontecchio, the spotlight from Durant underscores the respect he has garnered among basketball’s top-tier athletes.
Implications for Durant and Fontecchio Moving Forward
The interaction between Durant and Fontecchio exemplifies how team-building efforts evolve behind the scenes in professional basketball. Durant’s candid remark about trying “everything” to secure Fontecchio highlights the Suns’ intent to surround their star with capable teammates, even though they ultimately fell short during a difficult season.
With Durant’s new chapter unfolding in Houston and Fontecchio continuing to ascend in the NBA, both players are positioned for further growth. Durant aims to transform the Rockets into contenders with a balanced mix of youth and experience, while Fontecchio seeks to solidify his place as a reliable NBA forward recognized for his skill and work ethic.
As the new season approaches, the developments surrounding Durant and Fontecchio will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, eager to see how these intertwined careers progress amid evolving team strategies and competitive challenges.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Has Kevin Durant ever scored 50?
A. On April 2, 2022, Kevin Durant scored over 50 points in a single game against the Hawks.