Midway through the second quarter between the United States and Serbia. After another sluggish start, Team USA moved back in front thanks to Kevin Durantwho has just scored 14 points with a perfect 5/5 shooting. At 35-25 for his team, Steve Kerr then decides to give the Suns winger a break, by bringing Devin Booker back in his place.
The Phoenix full-back then almost apologizes for taking his teammate's place, both in the national team and at club level.
“He was tired” Book jokes like this. “He hasn't been on the pitch much in recent weeks but when the coach told me to replace him, I still said to him: 'Are you sure?' But then he confirmed to me that he was exhausted, so…”
Is he surprised to see Kevin Durant make such a comeback? Not really…
“I’ve seen it all before. He’s one of the most efficient players in history. I was joking with him about his missed shot. I’m sure after the game he was mostly upset about missing that shot. That’s how good he is.”
Steve Kerr: “Of all the players I've coached, he's probably the one you least feel that he's been out before, when he comes back from injury.”
And indeed, that last missed shot, baseline, was the only thing Kevin Durant seemed to be thinking about.
“Ah, I felt it when it left my hand. I would have liked to finish the match by remaining perfect…”
For the rest, Kevin Durant explains that it's like cycling, you don't forget it in a few weeks.
“I’ve played basketball my whole life. It’s just about getting back to the basics. Sticking to the game plan, being there for my teammates defensively and being aggressive every time the ball hits my hand.”
Which Steve Kerr confirms.
“I coached Kevin for three years, and of all the players I've coached, he's probably the one you least feel like he's been out before, when he comes back from injury. He's so talented that he was in mid-season form even though he hadn't played a real basketball game in a few months. It's incredible.”
Interview conducted in Villeneuve d'Ascq
