Rockets HC Ime Udoka gets 100% real about defensive history with Kevin Durant

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka discussed his extensive history with Kevin Durant, spanning both their playing careers and coaching tenures. As an NBA player from 2003-2011, Udoka overlapped with Durant's rookie years (starting in 2007) for four seasons, facing him on the court. After retiring, Udoka transitioned to coaching, serving as an assistant for the Spurs, 76ers, and Nets before becoming the Celtics' head coach in 2021. Throughout his coaching career, he consistently devised defensive strategies against Durant, including during Boston's 2022 playoff series against Brooklyn, and briefly coached him while with the Nets.

During a Summer League interview with ESPN, Udoka was asked about defending Durant as a player. He emphatically dismissed any suggestion of having "locked up" the superstar, stating: "I’ve never locked up Kevin Durant. If he misses a shot, it probably has nothing to do with a 6'5" guy trying to guard him." This humble reflection underscores Udoka's respect for Durant's abilities.

Looking ahead, the duo now shifts focus to collaboration in Houston. Udoka, entering his second season as Rockets head coach after revitalizing the team's playoff prospects, will now lead Durant directly. The organization views Durant's addition as pivotal to ending their championship drought dating back to 1995. With a significantly retooled roster this summer, the Rockets aim for a deep postseason run, hinging on Udoka's ability to effectively integrate and deploy the team's talent.