Kevin Durant, often called “KD,” is a superstar basketball player in the NBA, currently playing for the Phoenix Suns. Known for his incredible scoring skills, versatility, and basketball smarts, Durant has become one of the top players of his time. He has won several NBA championships and Finals MVP awards and has been an All-Star many times.
Over the years, Durant has picked up a lot of nicknames. Each nickname tells a different story about his personality, playing style, and career. Let’s check out the most popular, fun, and sometimes controversial nicknames of Kevin Durant.
Kevin Durant Nicknames
The following are some of the most notable nicknames and monikers for Kevin Durant:
1. KD
The most common nickname for Kevin Durant is simply his initials, “KD.” It’s short, easy to remember, and used by everyone—from fans to fellow players.
2. Durantula
This nickname highlights Durant’s long wingspan and dominance but isn’t one he embraces. Durant has openly stated he doesn’t like being called “Durantula” and prefers it not to be used.
3. Slim Reaper
“Slim Reaper” is a fan-favorite nickname. It describes Durant’s skinny build and his deadly ability to score in clutch moments. Durant isn’t a big fan of this name, but it’s very popular among his fans.
4. Easy Money Sniper
This is Durant’s own nickname and his social media handle. It shows how easily he scores from anywhere on the court, whether it’s a three-pointer, mid-range shot, or a layup. The name also reflects his smooth and precise shooting style.
5. The Servant
“Kevin Durant coined the nickname “The Servant” himself, explaining that it reflects his desire to serve everyone—his teammates, fans, and even ushers at games. He introduced this nickname during an interview with Grantland, highlighting his humility and team-first attitude
6. Cupcake
This nickname emerged after Durant left the Oklahoma City Thunder to join the Golden State Warriors in 2016. The term “cupcake” was used by his former teammate, Russell Westbrook, to imply Durant was “soft” for leaving. Durant eventually embraced the name, even wearing cupcake-themed merchandise during the 2017 NBA Finals parade.
7. The Slim Assassin
Like “Slim Reaper,” this nickname highlights Durant’s ability to take over games with his scoring, often delivering the final blow to opponents. It emphasizes his knack for hitting crucial shots and driving to the basket
8. Mr. Unreliable
“Mr. Unreliable” was a controversial nickname given to Durant by an Oklahoma newspaper during the 2014 NBA playoffs after a few off games. The nickname upset Durant and his fans, and the newspaper eventually apologized. It’s not widely used, but it shows the pressure Durant has faced during his career.
9. The Durantula
This nickname is almost the same as “Durantula,” but it emphasizes how Durant dominates with his long limbs, like a tarantula catching its prey. Commentators and fans often use it when Durant is in control, blocking shots, grabbing rebounds, and scoring at will.
10. The Basketball Nomad
“The Basketball Nomad” is a recent nickname that reflects Durant’s journey through several NBA teams. He’s played for the Seattle SuperSonics (which became the Oklahoma City Thunder), Golden State Warriors, Brooklyn Nets, and now the Phoenix Suns. This name captures his constant search for new challenges and championships.
11. The Snake
This nickname became popular on social media after Durant joined the Warriors in 2016. Some fans saw the move as a betrayal of his old team, The Thunder, and started calling him “The Snake.” Despite the negative meaning, Durant has acknowledged and even embraced the nickname.
12. Trey 5
“Trey 5” combines Durant’s love for three-point shots (“Trey”) with his jersey number (35). Fans on social media often use this nickname to celebrate his shooting skills, especially from beyond the arc.
13. Slimm Reaper
A variation of “Slim Reaper,” “Slimm Reaper” became popular on Reddit and Twitter, with the extra “m” giving it a unique touch. It’s used to describe his skinny build and lethal scoring ability.
14. Easy Sniper
This is a shorter version of “Easy Money Sniper” and is commonly used on social media. It still captures Durant’s ability to score effortlessly.
15. The Walking Bucket
This nickname is popular on basketball forums and highlights Durant’s reputation as an automatic scorer. A “walking bucket” is a player who can score with ease, and Durant fits that description perfectly.
What Do Kevin Durant’s Fans Call Themselves?
Kevin Durant’s fans are known as the “KD Nation.” This name reflects the global support he receives from basketball fans who admire his talent and hard work.
Your Turn
Do you know any other nicknames for Kevin Durant, or do you have personal favorites? Share your ideas and thoughts about KD’s nicknames in the comments below!
Sources
- Kevin Durant’s Nicknames Explained: The Score
- Kevin Durant Nickname Post: Instagram
- Oklahoma City Thunder and Kevin Durant: Bleacher Report
- KD’s Snake Nickname and Browser Game: Facebook – The Open Court
