Legendary college basketball coach Rick Barnes recently shared a nostalgic moment, recalling his reaction to landing one of the most transformative players in college basketball history: Kevin Durant. The Hall of Fame-bound forward’s decision to commit to Texas marked a pivotal moment for the Longhorns and remains one of the most celebrated recruiting victories in Barnes’ illustrious career.
A Moment to Remember
Barnes, who coached Texas from 1998 to 2015, vividly remembered the excitement surrounding Durant’s commitment.
“When Kevin told me he was coming to Texas, I knew instantly that I had the best player in the country,” Barnes said. “It was a game-changer—not just for our program, but for college basketball as a whole.”
At the time, Durant was a consensus five-star recruit, widely regarded as the top high school player in the nation. Hailing from Maryland, his decision to choose Texas—a school not traditionally known as a basketball powerhouse—sent shockwaves through the recruiting world.
Durant’s Impact on Texas
Durant’s lone season with the Longhorns (2006–07) remains one of the most dominant in NCAA history. He averaged 25.8 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, earning consensus National Player of the Year honors—a first for a freshman. His ability to score from anywhere on the court and his versatility as a 6’10” forward redefined what was expected of college players.
Despite a second-round exit in the NCAA Tournament, Durant’s impact extended beyond the court. His presence elevated Texas basketball to national prominence, attracting top-tier recruits and solidifying the Longhorns as a legitimate contender in the years that followed.
Barnes’ Role in Durant’s Development
Barnes emphasized the importance of letting Durant flourish within a system that highlighted his unique skill set.
“Kevin had everything you could ask for in a player—skill, drive, and a love for the game. My job was to give him the freedom to be himself and push him to reach his potential. Watching him grow as a player and person was one of the greatest joys of my career.”
Durant has often credited Barnes for helping him develop the work ethic and mental toughness that have defined his professional career.
Legacy of a Commitment
Looking back, Durant’s choice to play at Texas was a turning point for both the player and the program. For Durant, it was the launchpad to an illustrious NBA career that includes multiple MVP awards, championships, and All-Star appearances. For Barnes, it was validation of his ability to recruit and nurture top-tier talent.
Durant’s Reflection
Durant, now an NBA superstar, often reflects fondly on his time at Texas. In interviews, he has spoken about the strong bond he formed with Barnes and how the coach’s belief in him gave him the confidence to dominate from day one.
Final Thoughts
Rick Barnes’ recollection of Durant’s commitment serves as a reminder of how one player can change the trajectory of a program. It also highlights the importance of relationships in recruiting—something Barnes has excelled at throughout his career.
As Barnes continues his coaching journey and Durant solidifies his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, their shared history remains a shining example of what can happen when talent meets opportunity.