Just less than 24 hours after being labelled as a follower by NBA vet Charles Barkley, Kevin Durant fires back, defending his leadership style and dismissing allegations of being a lacklustre team leader.
During a Suns’ game telecast, Barkley took a shot at Durant while discussing the Suns’ leadership.
Despite acknowledging Durant’s remarkable skills as a player, Barkley made it clear that he didn’t consider KD to be a team leader.
Instead, he opted for Devin Booker, the Suns’ top performer, stating that Booker should step forward to lead the team.
Kevin’s a hell of a player; I ain’t never gonna say anything bad about him….for me, for Phoenix to be successful, it has to be Booker.
Charles Barkley on Kevin Durant at the All-Star Game commentary.
Durant retaliated swiftly to the jibe in an episode of “Boardroom” with Eddie Gonzalez. He clarified that he may not have a vibrant TV personality like many others but, according to his own observations, that does not equate to poor leadership.
The renowned player discussed his off-camera leadership style where he often forms bonds and connects with his teammates and team staff.
He emphasised that this everyday reality of his leadership goes unseen by the public, leading to many misjudgments about his leadership skills.
In his response, Durant articulated that he lacks the flamboyant charisma of others in the limelight, acknowledging his less-than-television-friendly personality.
I’m not as charismatic as my peers. I don’t have a personality that’s like, fit for TV. Kevin Durant said.
KD explains why he believes people in the media don't think he's a leader
“I’m not as charismatic as my peers. I don’t have a personality that’s like, fit for TV.”
(🎥 @boardroom )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 20, 2024
He stated that such traits shouldn’t necessarily denote leadership capability in the NBA or anywhere else.
Durant emphasised his disapproval of the public’s tendency to draw conclusions without full insight.
He argued that just because his leadership style happens away from the camera lens, it shouldn’t be undermined or overlooked.
He explained that his reserve nature shouldn’t be confused with a lack of leadership, but instead, it’s his way of leading.
He clarified that he isn’t seeking validation or public acknowledgment of his leadership style. He holds an unwavering belief in his approach, regardless of public opinion.
Durant ended his response by stating his clear stance: he does not necessarily want to be called a leader but also, does not want to be discounted as one.
