Kevin Durant recently sparked debate across the basketball world with his unique “pure hooper” starting five during an appearance on the Out The Mud podcast. In this thought-provoking segment, Durant bypassed some of the most celebrated players in NBA history, including Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry, opting instead for a lineup of players he deemed to exemplify “pure hooping.” His choices reflect a focus on skill, style, and the art of basketball rather than accolades or legacy.

“I’m going to leave out a lot of dudes, but if I’m going to go five off top because you just put me on a spot like that. I’m going to go Kyrie at the one.”

“It’s a debate between Kobe and MJ at my two. Pure in this, Kobe, it’s that three ball, he can handle, you got wiggle and you could do all the technical stuff that MJ can do. So it’s a toss up, I’m going to go Kobe at my two.” 

“I’m going to go Melo at my three. No, I’m going to go T-Mac. I’m going to go T-Mac at my three. I’m going to have to play four since this is my team. Then I’m going to go KG at the five.”

Durant’s pick for the one spot was Kyrie Irving, and it’s not hard to see why. Irving’s ball-handling wizardry, creativity, and ability to finish around the rim are unparalleled. Durant acknowledged Kyrie’s handles and technical precision, traits that make him the quintessential “pure hooper.” For Durant, Kyrie’s style of play epitomizes basketball artistry.

While Durant noted it was a close call between Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan, he ultimately chose Kobe. The deciding factor? Kobe’s three-point shooting, which added another dimension to his already legendary skill set. Durant highlighted Bryant’s ability to handle the ball, his polished footwork, and his mastery of technical skills, describing him as the embodiment of “pure hooping.”

At the three, Durant chose Tracy McGrady over other potential candidates like Carmelo Anthony. He lauded McGrady’s smoothness, versatility, and effortless scoring ability. Known for his incredible scoring runs and highlight-reel plays, T-Mac was a natural fit for a team built on pure basketball skill.

Durant included himself in the lineup, acknowledging his own prowess as a “pure hooper.” As one of the most skilled scorers in NBA history, his ability to shoot, handle the ball, and create mismatches at nearly seven feet tall is unmatched. Durant’s self-awareness in selecting himself was a nod to his confidence and legacy as a generational talent.

At the five, Durant went with Kevin Garnett, citing his intensity, versatility, and skill on both ends of the court. Garnett’s combination of defensive prowess, mid-range shooting, and ability to play with unrelenting passion earned him this spot in Durant’s lineup. While traditional centers like Shaquille O’Neal may have been more dominant, Garnett’s versatility aligns with Durant’s “pure hooper” criteria.

Durant’s choices raised eyebrows for leaving out Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry, three players widely regarded as among the greatest of all time. Durant explained that his selection was based on skill and artistry rather than legacy or championships.

While Jordan’s dominance is undisputed, Durant gave the edge to Kobe for his three-point shooting and slightly more modern offensive versatility. Similarly, LeBron and Curry, though iconic, didn’t fit the specific “pure hooper” mold Durant was aiming to build.

Durant’s list has reignited debates about what defines a “pure hooper.” Is it about raw skill and style, or should dominance and impact on the game take precedence? Whatever the case, Durant’s choices reflect his deep appreciation for the craft of basketball and his willingness to challenge conventional wisdom.