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Kevin Durant Sparks Viral Moment With Ja Morant’s Dad in Memphis

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In what’s quickly becoming one of the season’s most talked-about moments, Kevin Durant ignited a viral courtside exchange with Tee Morant, the father of Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant, during the Houston Rockets’ 124–109 win on Wednesday night.

The confrontation took place midway through the game at FedExForum, where Durant, clearly in full competitive mode, directed a fiery line toward Morant Sr.: “Your son don’t wanna be here. We know it’s your last weekend. Enjoy your time.”

The comment instantly blew up across social media, as fans and cameras caught the back-and-forth between the 37-year-old superstar and the always animated Tee Morant, a regular presence at his son’s games.

Kevin Durant Sparks Viral Moment With Ja Morant’s Dad in Memphis

Durant, who has long been one of the NBA’s most vocal competitors, appeared to be on a mission from the opening tip. With the Rockets chasing their fifth straight win and Durant trading words with several Memphis fans throughout the night, the veteran forward’s intensity set the tone.

At one point, a courtside fan shouted in Durant’s direction, and the two-time Finals MVP wasted no time firing back: “God damn, baby, just watch the game and relax.”

The exchange drew laughs from players on both benches, and it underscored what’s quickly become a hallmark of Durant’s late-career personality: unfiltered competitiveness mixed with confidence that borders on defiance.

While Durant finished the night with a modest 11 points on 5-of-18 shooting, his presence loomed large, both in leadership and in energy. His teammates Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun combined for 48 points, leading Houston to yet another statement win and extending their hot streak to five straight games.

A Spotlight on Memphis and Ja Morant’s Turmoil

For Memphis, the viral moment added an unwelcome spotlight to what’s already been a turbulent period. Ja Morant, once the face of the franchise’s rise, has recently hinted at growing dissatisfaction with his situation in Memphis.

In a cryptic social media post last week, Morant reportedly said he wasn’t happy anymore, sparking speculation about his future with the team. While Morant remains one of the league’s most electrifying players, his relationship with the Grizzlies organization has appeared increasingly strained amid off-court controversies and the team’s slow start to the season.

Durant’s jab, then, felt more like a sharp reminder than simple trash talk, echoing the uncertainty swirling around Memphis. The line “your son don’t wanna be here” quickly circulated across X (formerly Twitter), drawing both laughter and debate. Some fans applauded Durant’s boldness; others criticized the remark as crossing a personal line.

Still, for Durant, a player who thrives in emotional environments, it was another night of feeding off the noise.

Durant’s Mind Games and Houston’s Momentum

This wasn’t the first time Durant’s competitive fire turned into headline material. Over the years, he’s sparred verbally with fans, opponents, and even teammates. But in Houston, that edge seems to have become fuel rather than distraction.

The Rockets, now 5–2, have found their rhythm under head coach Ime Udoka, blending Durant’s leadership with the explosive athleticism of their young stars. Durant’s willingness to stir emotion, even at the expense of a few viral moments, is part of what has helped galvanize this new-look team.

While Memphis deals with uncertainty, Houston looks composed, confident, and connected; a stark contrast between two Western Conference teams seemingly headed in opposite directions.

As for Durant, the message was clear. He’s not backing down from anyone, whether it’s a rival player, a vocal parent, or an entire fanbase. One thing is certain: when Kevin Durant talks, the whole NBA listens.

Photo Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

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