Depending on your perspective, trips down memory lane can sometimes be painful. For Anthony Morrow, such was the case.
Morrow was the latest to be featured in the Thunder Legacy Series, a project undertaken by The Oklahoman in which the publication catches up with some former member of the club to recount some of the team’s glory (and sadness) from years past.
Having been a member of the club for the three seasons from 2014-17, Anthony Morrow recalled what that experience was like for him with Joe Mussatto. Going up 3-1 against the Warriors in the 2016 Western Conference Finals was among the finest memories that the now-retired sharpshooter had of his time with the club.
He, like many of his former teammates, though, recalls being understandably surprised that Durant followed being so close to bringing the Thunder to the NBA Finals for a second time that he claimed to recall exactly what his first communication with the now two-time NBA Finals MVP was.
“When he left, I couldn’t believe it. I remember exactly where I was at. I was heading on the freeway to my house after leaving my dad’s house. I saw it, and then like eight people called me in a row. I just texted him and was like, ‘Man, I ain’t seen this one coming, but as long as you’re happy and your family’s happy, you made the decision that was best for you. This ain’t about no basketball. You’re my brother. I want you to be happy.’ In that moment he probably needed to hear that…”
Under the circumstances, Morrow could have felt “betrayed,” especially since he and Durant were said to have had been rather close during their overlap with the team. But instead of allowing emotions to ruin their relationship, Morrow did the opposite. It’s worth our respect.
Morrow himself was actually a bit surprised that the team’s fans reacted to Durant the way they did after his return for his first road game at Chesapeake Energy Arena.
“It was weird especially when he came back, the fan reaction, which I wasn’t surprised by. Our OKC fans, they hold themselves to a standard. They’re hurt, man. Kev was the first one. Russ came in and did what he did. It was a great run.”
Now retired and managing his own clothing company, Morrow did also mention that Russell Westbrook and Durant’s relationship seems to be mending and that, in the end, all would be well.
Fortunately for Durant, Morrow is at least one former member of the club who didn’t take his move personally.