While the NBA postseason is now in full swing and rapidly approaching the conference finals in both the East and West, several major awards have also been handed out in recent weeks—the latest coming on Wednesday.
The most recent honor announced was the Magic Johnson Award, presented annually to the player who best combines on-court excellence with "cooperation and grace in dealing with the media and fans."
Phoenix Suns superstar Kevin Durant was named the winner of the award, marking the second time he’s received the honor in his illustrious career.
Founded in 2001, the award is named after Lakers legend and Hall of Famer Magic Johnson, who shared a heartfelt message for Durant after the news was announced on social media.
"Congratulations to the 2-time Magic Johnson Award winner Kevin Durant," Johnson wrote. "I’m so excited Kevin Durant won this award because he is always so gracious to the media and fans. I love his game, who he is as a man, and all the great community work he’s doing in the DMV area with the youth. Kevin is an outstanding entrepreneur and a big Commanders fan. I wish he was a Laker! lol."
Writers and editors of the Pro Basketball Writers Association (PBWA) vote on the award, and while this marks Durant’s second time receiving the honor, his former teammate Stephen Curry has also been a multiple-time winner.
The award came as a surprise to some, given Durant’s frequent back-and-forth interactions with fans on social media. However, much of it is in good fun, and Durant has consistently been known as a respectful and humble superstar throughout his decade-plus in the NBA.
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35).
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35).
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Magic Johnson shared a similar dynamic during his playing days. He embraced the spotlight and, beyond his legendary on-court talent, his charisma and off-court presence were unmatched in his era.