PHOENIX – The Kevin Durant and Phoenix Suns saga continues. Former teammate Vasilije Micic appeared on the “X&O’s CHAT” podcast and discussed about his time in Phoenix. Micic aired out Durant’s grievances against the team about him not getting the ball enough and not being used how he believed he should’ve been with the roster surrounding him.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Feb 12, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) reacts to call in the second half against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
Micic on former Suns teammate’s grievances with team:
“He’s surprised at how little he was used in Phoenix as an example, considering what he’s doing. KD often has that uncomfortable body language, but he’s actually a cool guy. That’s just his protection, he has his reasons for being that way, but he’s very open to conversation. He’s extra intelligent. We used to talk, and his basketball vision is on a completely different level, from understanding to analyzing the opponent.”
Feb 3, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Vasilije Micic (22) goes to the basket chased by Washington Wizards forward Justin Champagnie (9) during the first half at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Micic arrived midseason from the Charlotte Hornets via a trade, well into the Suns dysfunctional season. The 31-year-old Serbian guard saw Durant’s frustration up close and personal, believing to have open conversation with the future Hall of Famer.
Durant appeared on Lebron James’ podcast “Mind the Game,” and stated similar thoughts as to what Micic stated in his quote. The 15-time All-Star wanted his teammates in Phoenix to be more spot-up shooters and take 3-pointers instead of trying to generate their own shots.
Dec 27, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) during the first quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports
Many Suns players would try to take midrange shots, when Durant believes on him and Devin Booker should be taking those type of shots. Durant and head coach Mike Budenholzer have been seen clashing heads on the bench multiple times during games, most notably being the March 4th game against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Breakups are usually long and messy, which could definitely describe the relationship between the franchise and Durant moving forward.
The Phoenix Suns’ 2025 NBA schedule is packed full of fan events and promotions
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
