Kevin Durant’s first words after impressive Rockets debut

Kevin Durant made his debut with the Houston Rockets, and after missing his first three shots, he caught fire and didn’t miss again, leading his new team to a 140–127 preseason win over the Utah Jazz.

Durant finished with 20 points in 23 minutes, a strong first showing since joining the Rockets in July following the trade that sent Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks to the Phoenix Suns.

“I’ve felt at home since I got here three or four weeks ago, so it felt normal,” said Durant. “It felt like I’ve been here a while. The guys welcomed me pretty kindly, the coaching staff too, so it just felt natural. I haven’t felt any difference.”

Houston is hungry to make noise again after finishing second in the Western Conference last season and falling in the first round of the playoffs. The addition of Durant is expected to elevate the team’s ambitions. Against Utah, Amen Thompson impressed with 19 points, seven rebounds and six assists, while Alperen Sengun added 13 points and 13 assists in a dynamic performance from the Rockets’ new core.

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