Ten years ago, on May 6, 2014, Kevin Durant delivered one of the most memorable MVP acceptance speeches in NBA history. While he acknowledged many individuals, his tribute to his mother, Wanda Durant, remains the most poignant. Ending his speech with the heartfelt words, “You the real MVP,” Kevin Durant highlighted the crucial role his mother played in his journey, touching the hearts of millions.
The Impact of the Kevin Durant’s 2014 Speech
Kevin Durant’s speech, given just five days before Mother’s Day, resonated deeply not just with basketball fans but with anyone who understood the sacrifices of a dedicated parent. Reflecting on the struggles they faced, Kevin Durant painted a vivid picture of his mother’s relentless dedication. “You made us believe. You kept us off the street, put clothes on our backs, food on the table. When you didn’t eat, you made sure we ate. You went to sleep hungry. You sacrificed for us.”
This powerful narrative transformed Wanda Durant into a symbol of unwavering parental love and support. She became a motivational speaker, an entrepreneur, and a champion for the underserved, using her newfound platform to inspire and uplift others.
Wanda Durant: A Decade of Influence
Wanda, affectionately known as “Mama Durant,” has embraced her role as a motivational figure. Her work includes supporting nonprofits like the Durant Family Charitable Foundation, which helps at-risk youth from low-income backgrounds. Her story of resilience and dedication has made her a sought-after speaker, sharing her parenting strategies and experiences.
Reflecting on the speech’s enduring impact, Wanda said, “It catapulted me, to be quite honest. I was not expecting that outcome. It’s given me a platform that I did not expect, that I’m grateful for.”
The Speech’s Lasting Resonance
The simplicity and sincerity of Kevin Durant’s speech continue to resonate. “There was no fluff,” Wanda noted. “It was genuine.” This authenticity has kept the speech relevant, even as it has become a classic meme and the basis for a Lifetime television movie.
For many, the speech evokes personal memories and emotions. Wanda shared, “Even to this day, it still warms my heart. I’ll say probably eight out of 10 people that recognize me as his mom always mention the speech and how much it resonated with them because it reminds them of their journey and their mom.”
From Kevin’s Mother to ‘Mama Durant’
Kevin Durant’s acknowledgment of his mother’s sacrifices elevated Wanda to a status beyond just being an NBA player’s mom. She became a face of positivity and support within the league. Players of all ages and backgrounds, from veterans to rookies, recognize and respect “Mama Durant.”
An instance of this recognition came from Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves, who warmly greeted her as “Ma Dukes,” reflecting the widespread reverence for her.
"I think all three of them need to come together … One last hurrah."
Two former NBA players want to see Steph Curry, LeBron James and Kevin Durant team up on the Warriors next season 👀https://t.co/pxBhYN3V3L
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) May 12, 2024
Mother’s Day: A Special Bond
Mother’s Day holds a special place for Wanda Durant. Despite the demands of the NBA postseason, Kevin and his brother have always found ways to honor their mother. For Wanda, the most cherished gifts are the moments and conversations she shares with her sons.
“The most beautiful gift is that they want to talk to me. That warms my heart,” Wanda expressed. “The fact that they want to have general, everyday conversations with me about life and value my opinion are the things that are sweetest to me.”
The Legacy of ‘The Real MVP’
Now 35, Kevin Durant’s career includes two NBA championships, two NBA Finals MVPs, and 14 NBA All-Star selections, in addition to his 2013-14 MVP award. Yet, the legacy of his MVP speech transcends his accolades. It solidified Wanda Durant’s role as a beloved figure in the NBA community.
Wanda sees this as a badge of honor. “There’s always love, respect, and honor given to me, and I’m so very grateful for it. I don’t take it lightly,” she said. “I hold it dear to my heart, and I’m somewhat overwhelmed even thinking about it.”
A Title of Respect and Responsibility
The title “Mama Durant” signifies more than just maternal affection; it represents respect and honor. Wanda takes this responsibility seriously, understanding the impact she has on fans and players alike. “When someone calls you ‘Mama,’ that means something,” she stated. “It’s a level of accountability to me and a responsibility that I have to the fans.”
An Everlasting Bond
Kevin Durant’s MVP speech remains a testament to the powerful bond between a mother and her child. It is a reminder of the sacrifices parents make and the profound impact they have on their children’s lives. As Wanda Durant continues to inspire and uplift others, she embodies the true essence of “The Real MVP.”
