Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant is widely regarded as one of the most likable and humble players in the NBA—someone who has a rare combination of remarkable talent and broad appeal. Unlike past NBA stars like Allen Iverson, who at times rubbed fans the wrong way, Durant is generally seen as a wholesome figure. There’s also a common belief that he doesn’t have any tattoos, but it turns out that’s not entirely true.
In a recent promotional trip to China, a photo of Durant revealed that his torso is covered in tattoos. While it’s true that Durant doesn’t typically showcase tattoos that can be seen during games, he has indeed gotten inked, just in places that remain hidden beneath his jersey.
The first clue to Durant’s tattoos surfaced during Game 2 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Memphis Grizzlies. A closer look revealed a tattoo of a “W” on his stomach, resembling the Washington Nationals’ logo—a nod to his roots in the Washington, D.C., area. This tattoo likely represents his pride for his hometown. Additionally, the names “Barbara” and “Wanda” on his chest are tributes to his grandmother and mother, the two women who raised him.
Though some might speculate that Durant is keeping his tattoos under wraps to appeal to a broader fan base, it seems more likely that he simply prefers to keep his ink out of sight on his torso. Tattoos in the NBA have become a widespread norm, with many star players like LeBron James also sporting a variety of tattoos. In fact, tattoos are no longer seen as a mark of rebellion or edginess, but rather a personal expression of the players’ individuality.
Durant’s tattoos add another layer to his personality, showing that, while he may seem like the squeaky-clean, humble figure many fans view him as, he also has an edge. His tattoos reflect a deeper connection to his roots and his family, proving that he has just as much in common with the rest of the NBA’s inked stars as anyone else.
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