Rick Barry would like an explanation.
Not because the Warriors legend is mad at Kevin Durant for leaving Golden State for the Brooklyn Nets, but because he’s confused as to why Durant would want to play anywhere else.
“For whatever reason he’s decided to move on. My biggest thing is, I’m hoping some day he’s gonna come forward and actually explain why it is he made the decision to leave, because personally, I can’t figure out what reasons would justify wanting to leave the situation that he’s in,” Barry told TMZ Sports.
“It’s such an incredible opportunity to be on one of the greatest teams in the history of your sport, you have great teammates who can help you to achieve the goal of winning more championships and not have to carry the whole load yourself (and) be in a new arena that’s gonna be fantastic with great fans. So it’s hard for me to conceive of why he wanted to leave.
“But hey, it’s his life. He’s entitled to do it. I’m grateful that he was there and appreciate him having been there and being a part of the Warriors legacy, and I wish him all the best. But I will root against him when he plays against the Warriors when he comes back from his injury.”
Durant, who’s set to miss the entire 2019-20 season after rupturing his Achilles during the NBA Finals, has yet to comment specifically about his move to Brooklyn, other than some cryptic Instagram messages; his signing won’t become official until Saturday.
On his Instagram story, Durant wrote, “No man can speak or make decisions for me. Think for yourself and you’ll find the truth.” He also posted a photo of him riding a bike with a quote from novelist Roman Payne: “I wandered everywhere, through cities and countries wide. And everywhere I went, the universe was on my side.”
The Warriors have said they are going to retire Durant’s No. 35. Barry thanked Durant, who won two titles with the Warriors, and wished him well in his recovery before making another plea.
“I hope that maybe, just give me a call if you like and just tell me why you left. I’d just like to know why,” Barry said. “I would’ve loved to have had you finish out your career here and win more championships, but whatever it is, whatever the reason is, that’s your choice and I wish you all the best with what life has to offer.”