Ime Udoka of the Houston Rockets has a new player coming to his roster: Kevin Durant.
Like many people, Udoka has been in awe of Durant and his skills for years.
But unlike many, he also had the chance to play against Durant.
Sitting down on NBA TV, Udoka addressed the viral claim that he once “locked up” Durant years ago during a game.
Udoka was quick to shoot that rumor down.
“I’ve never locked up Kevin Durant,” Udoka humorously said, via Oh No He Didn’t on X. “If he misses a shot, it probably has nothing to do with a 6’5″ guy trying to contest him.”
Ime Udoka: "I've never locked up Kevin Durant. If he misses a shot it probably has nothing to do with a 6-5 guy trying to contest him"pic.twitter.com/eHTNaWzQao https://t.co/q8pgrY0Ryb
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) July 13, 2025
Udoka spent years playing in the NBA before making the transition to being a coach.
He got started with the Boston Celtics and then made his way to the Houston Rockets.
Since leading the Rockets, Udoka has helped the team gain a 93-71 record.
Houston has been a promising squad and one of the most exciting groups in the West, but things could get even better in the new season because of Durant.
He’s one of the best stars of his generation, a future Hall of Famer, and a two-time champion.
Unfortunately, Durant’s last two teams haven’t delivered, with both the Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns suffering from serious problems.
Will the Rockets do better than those squads?
That is Udoka’s hope and expectation.
He knows Durant very well and is aware of what he can achieve for his team.
He knows that this could be a game-changing moment for the Rockets and is trying to get the most out of it.
Udoka never defended Durant very well, but will he have better luck coaching him?
NEXT: Jalen Green Reveals Rockets Tried Making A Big Move Last Year