Kevin Durant addresses height discrepancies among NBA big men, suggesting some players may be inflating their listed heights.
Kevin Durant recently appeared on the ‘Up & Adams’ show with Kay Adams, where he discussed the ongoing debate about his height and took some jabs at his fellow NBA big men. Durant confirmed his height as 6’9″ and suggested that other players might be exaggerating their own heights.
“I guess those guys might be shorter than what their numbers say. I’m 6’9″ though. So it looks like Bam Adebayo is probably 6’8″, instead of 6’10”. And AD is probably 6’9″. You know, so they probably add a little more to their height. Well, I’m keeping mine the same. I’m not lying about my height. Embiid’s not 7 feet.”
This discussion arose after a recent Team USA photoshoot, where Durant appeared taller than Bam Adebayo and as tall as Anthony Davis and Joel Embiid. Officially, Durant is listed at 6’11”, Embiid at 7’0″, Davis at 6’10”, and Adebayo at 6’9″. However, Durant’s comments have cast doubt on these listings, suggesting that some players might be inflating their heights.
Kevin Durant on appearing to be the same height as Joel Embiid & taller than Anthony Davis:
“I’m 6’9”, so those guys must be shorter than what they say… Embiid’s not 7 feet.”
Durant is listed at 6’11”, Embiid is listed at 7’0”, & Davis is listed at 6’10”.
Thoughts? 🤔… pic.twitter.com/aYDRcc5h27
— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) July 11, 2024
Durant’s remarks have sparked a conversation about the accuracy of height listings in the NBA. It is common knowledge that some players and teams might adjust these numbers for various reasons, such as perceived advantages or psychological impact on opponents. Durant’s candidness about his own height and his playful jabs at other players bring a fresh perspective to this ongoing topic.
The height discrepancies are particularly noticeable in the Team USA context, where players are often photographed and measured together, making any differences more apparent. Durant’s claim that he is 6’9″ and his assertion that other players might be adding inches to their listed heights challenge the commonly accepted figures and adds a layer of intrigue to the discussions about player measurements.
Durant’s statements also highlight his confidence and transparency, traits that have defined his career both on and off the court. Whether his comments will lead to more accurate height listings or just add fuel to the competitive banter among NBA players remains to be seen.
In the meantime, fans and analysts alike will continue to scrutinize the official numbers and enjoy the playful rivalry between some of the league’s top stars.
This Makes What Kevin Durant Does Even More Special
Seeing Kevin Durant stand as tall as Anthony Davis and Joel Embiid truly highlights just how special his abilities are on the basketball court. Standing at the same height as these dominant big men, Durant showcases a unique blend of size, skill, and agility that sets him apart from other players of his stature.
Durant’s height allows him to excel in areas typically reserved for big men, such as rebounding and shot-blocking, yet he moves with the grace and agility of a guard. His ball-handling skills are impeccable, allowing him to create his own shot with ease and navigate through defenses that often struggle to contain him. This combination of height and guard-like mobility is a rare and valuable asset in the NBA.
One of Durant’s most remarkable skills is his shooting ability. He is a sniper extraordinaire, capable of scoring from virtually any spot on the court. Whether it’s close to the basket, in the mid-range, or from beyond the arc, Durant’s shooting precision is nearly unmatched. His career shooting percentages are a testament to his efficiency and consistency, making him one of the most reliable scorers in NBA history.
Durant’s scoring prowess is complemented by his defensive abilities. Despite often being matched up against smaller, quicker players, he can lock down opponents with his length and agility. His height gives him a distinct advantage in contesting shots, while his quick feet and defensive instincts allow him to guard multiple positions effectively. This versatility makes him a crucial asset on both ends of the floor.
Moreover, Durant’s ability to perform at such a high level despite his size is a testament to his dedication and work ethic. He has refined his skills to the point where he can dominate games in multiple ways, making him a true all-around player. Whether he’s scoring, defending, or facilitating for his teammates, Durant consistently impacts the game in profound ways.
In a league where height often dictates a player’s role, Durant has defied conventional expectations. His ability to combine the skills of a guard with the physical attributes of a big man makes him a truly special player, and seeing him stand shoulder-to-shoulder with giants like Davis and Embiid only underscores his extraordinary talent and versatility.