Kevin Durant and Draymond Green, who were part of the Golden State Warriors dynasty that won three NBA championships in four years, reunited in Tokyo to support their former Team USA teammates. The duo, who now play for different teams in the NBA, were seen in the stands at the Saitama Super Arena, where the men’s basketball final between USA and France took place on Saturday.
Durant and Green, who both won gold medals with Team USA in 2016 and 2021, were not part of the roster this year, as they opted to rest and recover from a grueling NBA season. However, they still showed their loyalty and patriotism by flying to Japan to catch some of the action and cheer for their friends and compatriots.
Team USA wins fourth consecutive gold medal
Team USA, led by Durant’s Brooklyn Nets teammate James Harden, defeated France 87-82 in a thrilling final that went down to the wire. Harden scored 23 points and dished out eight assists, while Devin Booker added 20 points and six rebounds. France, which had beaten Team USA in the group stage, put up a valiant fight, but could not overcome the Americans’ firepower and experience.
Team USA clinched its fourth consecutive gold medal in men’s basketball, extending its dominance in the sport. The team also silenced its critics, who had doubted its ability to win after losing two exhibition games and its Olympic opener. Team USA finished the tournament with eight straight wins, proving that it is still the best team in the world.
Durant and Green take shots at their doubters
After the game, Durant and Green took to Instagram Live to celebrate their country’s victory and take shots at their doubters. Durant, who is widely regarded as one of the best players in the world, mocked the power rankings that had placed Team USA fourth behind Slovenia, which finished fourth in the tournament. He also dismissed the notion that other countries were catching up to Team USA, saying that “this skill is unmatched”.
Green, who is known for his trash talk and defensive prowess, singled out ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins, who had expressed his lack of confidence in Team USA before the games. Green told Perkins to “act like you’re American” and “cheer for your country”. He also questioned Perkins’ loyalty, saying that “somebody needs to teach these people some loyalty”.
Perkins responded to Green’s comments on Twitter, congratulating Team USA for winning the gold medal and praising Durant for his leadership. He also said that he was proud of Green for representing his country.
A friendship that transcends basketball
Durant and Green’s appearance in Tokyo showed that their friendship transcends basketball. The two had a falling out in 2018, when they had a heated argument on the court that reportedly affected Durant’s decision to leave the Warriors in 2019. However, they have since patched things up and remained close friends.
Durant and Green have also been vocal supporters of each other’s careers and achievements. Durant congratulated Green for making the NBA All-Defensive First Team this year, while Green defended Durant from online trolls who criticized his performance in the NBA playoffs. The two also share a common bond as Olympic champions, having won two gold medals together.
Durant and Green’s reunion in Tokyo was a heartwarming sight for basketball fans around the world. It also demonstrated their love for their country and their sport, as they cheered for their fellow Americans who carried on their legacy of excellence.