Kevin Durant's departure from the Oklahoma City Thunder on July 4th, 2016, sent shockwaves throughout the NBA. His decision to leave for the Golden State Warriors, a team that had just shattered the record for most regular-season wins with 73, left many stunned.

What happened?

Durant's move was unexpected, especially considering the Thunder had already established a rivalry with the Warriors. The two teams had a history of intense matchups, and Durant's departure added fuel to the fire. According to Anthony Morrow, a former teammate of Durant's, the news of his departure was like a punch to the gut.

"I'll never forget it," Morrow said. "I was leavin' my daddy's house. Headed to the crib. I had to pray about it. I was like 'd—n.' S—t got crazy, bro."

Why it matters for Kevin Durant

Durant's decision to leave the Thunder was a turning point in his career. He had established himself as one of the top players in the league, and his move to the Warriors marked a new chapter in his journey. Morrow recalled the conversation he had with Durant after the news broke.

"I text [Durant]. I was like, 'Bro. Listen. You my brother, bro. You made your decision how you supposed to make it. You a grown man. I just want you to be successful.' He text me like, 'Appreciate you, bro,'" Morrow said.

What comes next?

The aftermath of Durant's departure was intense. His former teammate, Russell Westbrook, was determined to prove himself as a leader and carried the Thunder to the sixth seed in the West, earning him the MVP award. The rivalry between the Thunder and Warriors continued to grow, with each team determined to outdo the other.

"It would be understandable if Durant had left for any team other than the Warriors," Morrow said. "Not only were they the best team ever, but the Thunder had already established a rivalry with Golden State, believing they had figured them out."

The 2016-17 season was a defining moment for Westbrook, who averaged a triple-double throughout the season and became the first player to do so since Oscar Robertson in 1962.

"I had to text Russ. I text Russ some s—t. Russ was like, 'I'm good bro. I'm good.' This is sounding like some Tupac s—t. Like, cool bro. I'll see you at training camp. He back in the gym, bro. Nah, I'm not even calling him. Maniac next season," Morrow said.

The rivalry between Durant and Westbrook continued to grow, with each player determined to outdo the other. The 2016-17 season was a defining moment for both players, and their legacy continues to be felt in the NBA today.

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