Even for seasoned defenders like Derrick White, shutting down Kevin Durant’s jump shot remains an unreachable feat. White, a two-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection, spoke candidly about the futility of blocking what many describe as the Kevin Durant impossible shot block. His experiences playing alongside Durant for Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics gave him a firsthand look at why Durant’s shot is so difficult to contest.
Memories from the 2024 Paris Olympics Team USA Experience
During the Olympics, White witnessed Durant’s offensive dominance despite battling a calf injury. Durant came off the bench during pool play against Serbia and instantly changed the game. White described the impact Durants’ performance had on him in a recent episode of his White Noise podcast. He recalled, in astonishment, how Durant drained a fallaway jumper just before halftime.
“Sixth man KD?! Like what are we doing?” —Derrick White, Celtics Guard
“He was unbelievable. He hit that fallaway at the halftime buzzer and I’m like, ‘This is unbelievable … you’re one of the coldest ever.'” —Derrick White, Celtics Guard
Durant scored 21 points in under nine minutes during that first half, showcasing perfect shooting accuracy including five three-pointers without a miss.
The Reality of Trying to Block Durant, According to White’s Closest Confidant
White’s podcast cohost and best friend, Alex Welsh, shared insight into what White has revealed about defending Durant’s jumper. The description paints a vivid picture of the near-impossible task defenders face with Durant.
“Imagine running as fast as you can, jumping as high as you can, reaching your arm as high as it can go, and not even being close to the ball. That’s him on every single jump shot.” —Alex Welsh, Podcast Cohost
Derrick White’s Unfulfilled Quest to Block KD in NBA Play
White has achieved a lot in his career, including winning Olympic gold and playing a key role in the Boston Celtics’ 2024 NBA championship run. With teammate Jayson Tatum expected to miss much of the upcoming season, White is poised for his first All-Star nod. Despite these accomplishments, White confesses to never having successfully blocked a Kevin Durant shot.
“I’ve always wanted to block KD’s shot,”
“Every time we play I’m like, I just need to check that off. There was one time where he did a bump fade, [and] I was waiting for it. He turned, I was like [reaches high in vain], still didn’t block it. I don’t think I ever will.” —Derrick White, Celtics Guard
Why Durant’s Shot Remains So Difficult to Defend
Standing roughly seven inches taller than White, Durant’s physical advantage adds to the nearly insurmountable challenge of blocking his shot. Beyond mere height, Durant possesses a highly unique skill set that has allowed him to find open looks over defenders for nearly two decades. His combination of length, shooting touch, and timing makes him a nightmare for anyone trying to contest his jumpers.
White is one of many defenders who have experienced the frustration of being unable to stop Durant. His admission highlights just how exceptional Durant’s shooting ability is, reinforcing the lore behind the phrase “Kevin Durant impossible shot block.”