Kevin Durant is clearly not happy, and he is letting Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia know it. Ishbia recently called the 2023 trade that brought KD to the Suns a “failed strategy” of throwing “money at the problem,” and Durant’s response on X was swift and sharp, reminding the owner exactly what he brought to the team.
KD Dropped the Hammer on X
Durant took to X on Saturday, pulling no punches with his direct message to Ishbia. He explicitly called out the owner, tweeting, “#blameKD even though KD stayed on top of his game at 36 and got u back this ‘culture’ you love so much.” Not stopping there, KD added, “Aye, Matthew acts like I got arrested for a DUI or sumn.” It is a pretty wild accusation to toss out there, and it shows Durant is absolutely seething over Ishbia’s comments about his time in Phoenix.
Ishbia’s ‘Failed Strategy’ Sparks the Fire
Ishbia, who finalized his purchase of the Suns in February 2023, made his controversial remarks about the Durant trade on CNBC Sport. The trade, remember, happened later that same month in 2023. Ishbia stated that “there was not a defined culture and North Star where we were going, and therefore bringing in super talented players like Kevin Durant doesn’t necessarily lead to championships.” He pushed the idea that you “got to find guys and people that are aligned with the vision of where we’re going, the work ethic, the attitude, the care factor around winning, the grind every single day.” Clearly, KD felt like he checked those boxes and was being disrespected.
Durant ultimately spent two and a half seasons with the Suns before he was traded to the Houston Rockets in July 2025. This public back-and-forth feels like a story that is only just beginning, so keep your eyes peeled for more on this one.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
Leave a Reply