Houston Rockets star Amen Thompson disclosed the intriguing reason why NBA legend Kevin Durant follows him on Instagram while ignoring his twin brother, Ausar Thompson. The story emerged during a recent live stream where Amen proudly showed Durant’s verified profile following him, a privilege his brother Ausar has yet to enjoy despite being equally talented. This difference has sparked curiosity especially because both brothers are rising stars in the NBA.
Kevin Durant, a two-time NBA champion and multi-award winner with a career dating back to 2007, is admired by many current players, including Detroit Pistons’ Ausar Thompson. Even though Ausar follows Durant on social media, Durant has not reciprocated that gesture with a follow back. Amen, who plays alongside Durant for the Houston Rockets, has earned that follow, revealing a unique dynamic between the two siblings and the veteran forward.
Insights Into the Twin Brothers’ Different Connections with Kevin Durant
Amen Thompson enthusiastically admitted his admiration for Durant, calling himself
“the biggest KD fan in the world”
while sharing Durant’s follow live on social media. Amen insisted he couldn’t resist following back such a basketball icon. In contrast, Ausar acknowledged Durant does not follow him and remains unresponsive to follow requests, a situation Ausar finds puzzling.
During the conversation, Ausar jokingly mentioned his early follow of Durant and expressed some mild frustration, though he laughed it off with humor. Amen theorized that Durant’s reluctance to follow Ausar might be because
“He likes the chase. That’s why you can’t give people too much,”
implying Durant values a certain dynamic in his social media interactions.
Draft Successes and Early Careers of Amen and Ausar Thompson
The Thompson twins are making their own mark in the NBA after being top-five picks in the 2023 NBA Draft. Amen was selected fourth overall by the Houston Rockets, while Ausar was the fifth pick chosen by the Detroit Pistons. Both players hold significant roles on their respective teams and are highly regarded for their skill sets and potential to impact the league.
Amen’s early opportunities have brought him considerable attention, especially given his chance to share the court with a veteran like Durant. He openly expressed excitement about the mentorship and experience Durant brings, highlighting how it can accelerate his own development in the league.
Amen’s Take on Kevin Durant’s Influence and Work Ethic
Amen Thompson praised Durant’s legacy and skill, calling him
“one of the greatest players ever, one of the best scorers ever.”
Amen believes Durant’s presence will simplify his game and support the Rockets overall. He also commented on Durant’s distinct work ethic, which aligns with his own rigorous approach to training and preparation.
“A lot of stuff I haven’t seen before. He’s one of the greatest players ever, one of the best scorers ever. He’s going to make my life a lot easier,”
Amen explained during the livestream.
“I just hear his work ethic is different. I have a different work ethic, too. Combining that, I think it’s going to be fun.”
—Amen Thompson, Houston Rockets player
Building Trust Beyond Social Media Recognition
While social media follows provide a glimpse into relationships among NBA stars, the greater challenge for Amen Thompson is demonstrating reliability and chemistry with Kevin Durant on the court. Earning Durant’s trust in game situations will be a key factor in shaping Amen’s career trajectory and the Rockets’ success going forward. The Instagram follow may be symbolic, but the true measure of connection will come through teamwork and on-court performances.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who is better, Ausar or Amen Thompson?
A. By the end of the regular season, Amen and Ausar were the only NBA players to reach 100 offensive rebounds and have 125 total steals and blocks. Amen’s stats are slightly better than Ausar’s when looking at each game, but their numbers are similar when considered over 36 minutes of play.