NBA champ Kevin Durant, who made his last
appearance on a basketball court a year and a
half ago, returned on Sunday for the Brooklyn Nets’
preseason game where his team defeated the Washington Wizards. Durant shone as
he threw down a dunk just seconds into the game. His team beat Washington
Wizards 119-114.

Durant suffered
an Achilles injury during the NBA Finals against the Toronto Raptors
in 2019. He underwent a surgery following which he signed a four-year
deal with Brooklyn. Durant spent all the last
season recovering and returned to the court on Sunday.

“It’s definitely good to get back into
the flow of things and it’s definitely giving me some confidence. So it’s a
good step, and I’m trying to build on it,” Durant said.

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The Nets made
the playoffs last season with Durant and Kyrie Irving out.
The team then hired Canadian Steve Nash as head coach.

Durant, who has been on championship teams guiding clubs
through long playoff runs and game sevens, knows exactly what is expected from
him. His leadership skills are also crucial.

Meanwhile, New coach Nash is planning to go with a
smaller line-up and even have Durant split time between centre and point guard
which will give opposing defences plenty of headaches.

Starting alongside Irving on Sunday, Durant scored his 15
points on five-of-12 shooting while collecting a three assists in 24 minutes.

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“It’s a good first step. I want to play at an elite
level late in the season — playoffs that’s when I want to play my best
basketball. I’m working towards that point. Every single day is just keep
working, man, and getting used to it,” Durant said.