Why Kevin Durant ditched 35 and embraced No. 7 as the Houston Rockets star embarks on a new chapter

Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant is all set to play in the 2025-26 season that starts on Tuesday with his jersey no.7. The 2x NBA champion and Finals MVP has given up no.35 and embraced no.7, and that could be a game-changer.

For most of his career, no.35 was acknowledged as his signature number, and he played almost all the matches wearing this number.

Why did Kevin Durant opt for this change just before the season started, and what could be the real reason behind this change of numbers? Here is a detailed look at why the Houston Rockets star wants the change:

Why did Kevin Durant choose no.7 over no.35 this season?

There are no clear and valid reasons as to why the Rockets' star, Kevin Durant, has chosen this number.

Probably because his signature jersey was available during his trade to the Houston Rockets. Kevin Durant has played for the Seattle Supersonics, Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors, and Phoenix Suns while wearing the no.35.

Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant has worn the no.35 jersey almost his whole life. However, this season, the Slip Reaper has decided to wear the no.7 jersey, and he does look extra slim and sleek while wearing it.

Fans and media might think that this would be Durant’s first time wearing no.7. However, things are quite the opposite. Previously, Durant has rocked with this number while playing for the Brooklyn Nets.

What could the change of jersey numbers mean for Kevin Durant and his fans?

There is a hint of nostalgia when it comes to wearing the jersey no.35, and his fans know it well. This number honors his first coach, Charles Craig, who was murdered at the age of 35. However, he is no longer wearing this current number, which might seem a bit outdated for his current team.

Also, fans are used to seeing him wearing this number, and while they don’t want a change, they might have to adapt to this.

Currently, Kevin Durant is wearing jersey no.7 for the upcoming season 2025-26, which is a fresh beginning and a new start for the Houston Rockets, as well as for Durant, who once rocked in this number. However, for fans, no.7 might be less significant as compared to no.35, which used to be his signature number. Also read: What are Kevin Durant’s off-court interests? Exploring hobbies that keep NBA star focused and grounded