Kevin Durant signed a two-year contract extension with the Houston Rockets on Sunday, securing $85 million. The deal raises his total NBA career earnings to $600 million, surpassing LeBron James, who has earned $583.9 million. Announced after the Rockets’ victory over the Golden State Warriors, the extension ensures the star’s presence in Houston until 2028. At 36, Durant remains one of the biggest names in global basketball.
The contract extension marks a new chapter in the career of Durant, who joined the Rockets in June after a trade from the Phoenix Suns. The Texas team is banking on the forward’s experience to bolster its 2025/26 season campaign. Durant, a two-time NBA champion and two-time Finals MVP, continues to be a central figure in the roster.
- Contract: $85 million for two years.
- Total earnings: $600 million in NBA salaries.
- Comparison: Surpasses LeBron James ($583.9 million).
- Expectation: Staying with the Rockets until 2028.
New financial milestone in the NBA
Durant’s contract redefines the top of the NBA’s all-time salary list. He now holds the record for the highest total earnings by a player in league history. The milestone reflects his longevity and impact on the sport.
At 36, Durant maintains high performance, averaging 27.1 points per game last season. His leadership on the court is vital for the Rockets, who aim to win the Western Conference title.
Durant’s career and legacy
Drafted in 2007 by the Seattle SuperSonics, Durant has built a remarkable career. He won the NBA in 2017 and 2018 with the Golden State Warriors. He was also named the league’s MVP in 2014. His versatility as a forward ranks him among the all-time greats.
Durant also plans to represent the United States at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. He has already won four Olympic gold medals, a record in men’s basketball. His participation in 2028 could mark the end of his national team career.
Impact on the Houston Rockets
Durant’s extension strengthens the Rockets’ project for the 2025/26 season. The team, which defeated the Golden State Warriors last Sunday, forced a Game 7 in the playoffs. Durant’s presence is seen as crucial for the team’s competitiveness.
Rockets coach Ime Udoka emphasized the forward’s importance to the roster. The management plans additional signings in the transfer market. The goal is to build a team capable of contending for the NBA title.
Olympic plans
Durant confirmed his intention to compete in the 2028 Olympics, when he will be nearly 40. He was part of the U.S. team that won gold in Paris in 2024. His experience will be key for the U.S., which aims to maintain its basketball dominance.
He is already the most decorated male basketball Olympian with four golds. His participation in Los Angeles could further solidify his legacy. Preparations for the Games are set to begin in 2027.
NBA market movements
The NBA transfer market is heating up for the 2025/26 season. Beyond Durant’s extension, other teams announced changes. The Golden State Warriors, for instance, released Stephen Curry but retained a shooting guard in the roster. Joel Embiid also returned after an eight-month injury absence.
These movements suggest a competitive season ahead. The Rockets, with Durant, aim to establish themselves as a top contender in the Western Conference. The forward’s extension is seen as a strategic step for the team’s future.
