Durant: Innocence Lost

Kevin Durant possesses exceptional talent. During his phenomenal freshman campaign, he accomplished all. He garnered both the Naismith and Wooden awards. He earned the Adolph Rupp and Oscar Robertson Trophies. He was named the Associated Press and National Association of Basketball Coaches Player of the Year. He also registered a 3.5 grade point average. Despite assumptions, Durant’s decision was a decision.

On Tuesday, Durant declared his NBA eligibility. Assuming Greg Oden’s presence, Durant is the probable second selection. Sans Oden, Durant will be chosen first. According to the prospect, the aforementioned is trivial. "I know I'll be one of the higher picks. It doesn't really matter if I go one or two as long as I go," Durant said.

Last season, Durant averaged 25.8 points and 11.1 rebounds per contest. He tallied thirty plus points in eleven endeavors. He netted twenty plus points in nineteen clashes. He notched thirty-seven points on four occasions. He also registered ten double-doubles.

Previously, Durant’s quandary was nonexistent. Given his talent, college would have been ignored. However, the nineteen rule exists. Durant’s conflict was intriguing. Marring his face were professional expectations and the disappointment of youth sacrificed.