The contract extension for Oklahoma City Thunder star Kevin Durant, who would have become a restricted free agent following the upcoming season, wasn't really in doubt. Nevertheless, OKC fans breathed a sigh of relief when Durant tweeted yesterday, "Extension for 5 more years with the Thunder....God Is Great, me and my family came a long way...I love yall man for real, this a blessing!"
The manner in which the deal was done also says a lot about both the organization and the player. Reportedly, general manager Sam Presti and assistant general manager Troy Weaver arrived at Durant's home at 11:01 p.m. on June 30th, the earliest possible moment that negotiations with Durant were allowed by the league. And according to Durant, the deal "was done at 11:02."
Exact terms of the deal won't be known for some time, but we do know that the contract does not include a player option by which Durant could become a free agent after four seasons, a popular clause requested by many NBA players. "I'm a very loyal person," Durant said. "We're building something great here, and I didn't want anything to jeopardize that. I'm happy I'm a part of this organization, and hopefully everybody sticks together."
Photo: Chris Graythen / Getty Images
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