Who was drafted before Kevin Durant? This question often sparks debates among basketball enthusiasts, as Kevin Durant is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Born on September 29, 1988, in Washington, D.C., Durant’s journey to the NBA began with a promising high school career and led to his selection in the 2007 NBA Draft. However, there was another player who was drafted before him, and his story is equally fascinating. Let’s delve into the details of this intriguing comparison.
In the 2007 NBA Draft, Kevin Durant was selected as the second overall pick by the Seattle SuperSonics, now known as the Oklahoma City Thunder. This was a significant moment in his life, as it marked the beginning of his professional basketball career. However, before Durant’s name was called, another talented player was drafted in the first round.
That player was Greg Oden, who was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers as the first overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft. Oden, a towering center from Ohio State University, was considered one of the most promising prospects in the draft class. Standing at 7 feet 0 inches tall, Oden was known for his athleticism, shot-blocking ability, and potential to be a dominant presence in the paint. The Trail Blazers were hopeful that Oden would help lead them to success in the NBA.
Unfortunately, Oden’s career was plagued by injuries, and he never lived up to the expectations that came with being the number one overall pick. After just three seasons with the Trail Blazers, he was traded to the Miami Heat, where he played sparingly before being waived. Oden’s career was ultimately cut short due to a series of foot and knee injuries, and he retired from the NBA in 2016.
On the other hand, Kevin Durant’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. Since being drafted in 2007, Durant has won multiple NBA championships, including two with the Miami Heat and one with the Golden State Warriors. He has also been named an NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) and has been a consistent All-Star throughout his career. Durant’s combination of scoring ability, playmaking skills, and defensive prowess has made him one of the most well-rounded players in the league.
While Greg Oden’s career was cut short by injuries, Kevin Durant has become one of the greatest basketball players of his generation. The comparison between the two players is often a topic of discussion, as it highlights the impact that injuries can have on a player’s career. Despite the contrasting paths, both Durant and Oden have left their mark on the NBA, and their stories will be remembered for years to come.
In conclusion, the player who was drafted before Kevin Durant was Greg Oden. While Oden’s career was overshadowed by injuries, Durant has emerged as one of the greatest players in NBA history. The comparison between the two serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional sports and the importance of perseverance and resilience.
