Kevin Durant's loyalty has come into question a lot lately, but his loyalty to his home state shouldn't be in doubt.
The Warriors forward has spent part of his time in Rio off the court supporting swimmers and fellow Maryland natives Michael Phelps and Katie Ledecky.
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“You’re from Maryland, a small state, and we’ve got to stick together, man," Durant told USA Today. "Seeing Katie and just knowing that she comes from the same area I come from. I can drive to where she’s from in 30 minutes (from his hometown) — just to see that (is unreal). I’ve always been proud to be from Maryland, but it just took it to another level when I saw those two win gold medals.”
The Washington, D.C. native grew up in Prince George's County, a stone's throw away from Towson, where Phelps grew up.
“You put your ego to the side, man, when you’re watching greatness,” Durant said. “You can appreciate greatness, especially at this stage, being an Olympian. You just don’t get this (any other time). I can’t just say, ‘Oh, I’m going to watch Michael Phelps go win the gold.’ People can come watch us play 82 nights a year (during the NBA season), but we can’t just go watch Michael Phelps win a gold medal. I’ve always been a fan (of his)."
Durant won gold in the 2012 London Games and is currently a part of the USA basketball team that is undefeated as it rolls through pool play in hopes of a third-straight gold medal, so he has a great appreciation for what it feels like to stand at the podium with the gold around his neck.
“I love sports, so yeah I love being a fan. A lot of people support me, and tell me that they’re fans of how I play. And I’m a fan of certain people. Going to watch them perform, to watch them approach their game and approach their craft. Because I do it every day, I can appreciate it.”