BREAKING NEWS: Netflix Releases “The Underdog,” a Highly Anticipated Documentary About Oklahoma City Thunder Legend Kevin Durant, Slated for Release on the……….. Read More
The basketball world is buzzing once again — and this time, it’s not because of a blockbuster trade or a championship run. It’s because Netflix has just dropped one of its most anticipated announcements of the year: “The Underdog,” a documentary chronicling the rise, legacy, and enduring impact of Oklahoma City Thunder legend Kevin Durant.
Set for release later this year, The Underdog promises to be an emotional, raw, and inspiring look into Durant’s life — from his humble beginnings in Prince George’s County, Maryland, to becoming one of the most polarizing and dominant figures in modern NBA history.
A Deep Dive into Durant’s Journey
Durant’s story is one of relentless determination and resilience. Before the world knew him as a two-time NBA Champion, an MVP, and one of the most skilled scorers to ever step on a court, Kevin Durant was just a tall, quiet kid from the Washington, D.C. area — raised by his mother, Wanda Pratt, who famously became known as “The Real MVP.”
The documentary reportedly opens with never-before-seen footage from Durant’s early years, showing the challenges of growing up in a tough neighborhood and how basketball became both an escape and a purpose. From his AAU days to his one-year stint at the University of Texas, viewers will see the beginnings of a legend whose work ethic was unmatched.
The Thunder Years: The Rise of a Superstar
One of the central arcs of The Underdog focuses on Durant’s time with the Oklahoma City Thunder — a period many fans still regard as the most exciting chapter of his career.
From the moment the Seattle SuperSonics relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008, Durant became the face of the franchise. Alongside young stars Russell Westbrook and James Harden, he transformed the small-market Thunder into a powerhouse.
The film revisits the 2012 Finals run — a Cinderella story that saw a youthful OKC squad take on LeBron James and the Miami Heat. While the Thunder fell short, it was clear that Durant had arrived as one of the NBA’s elite.
Former teammates, coaches, and analysts reportedly offer emotional insight into that era, reflecting on Durant’s leadership, his drive, and the brotherhood that defined that team. Expect appearances from Scott Brooks, Russell Westbrook, James Harden, and even LeBron James, who speaks on Durant’s competitive fire and his evolution as a player.
The Decision That Shook the NBA
No documentary about Kevin Durant would be complete without addressing the decision — his shocking move to the Golden State Warriors in 2016.
The Underdog doesn’t shy away from the controversy. Netflix’s production team reportedly had full cooperation from Durant, who opens up about the emotional toll the backlash took on him. He discusses how the move was never about running from competition, but about chasing perfection — joining a team that shared his same obsession with excellence.
The film includes candid interviews with media members who criticized him, teammates who defended him, and rivals who were stunned by the move. For the first time, Durant offers his own unfiltered perspective on one of the most debated moments in sports history.
Champion, Critic, and Complex Icon
Through the Warriors years, Durant’s reputation transformed. He became a champion — twice — and a Finals MVP. Yet, he also became a lightning rod for criticism, accused of joining an already dominant team.
The Underdog explores this duality — how Durant’s greatest triumphs also became sources of resentment for some fans. The filmmakers, known for their work on Netflix’s The Last Dance and Untold series, reportedly approach the topic with nuance, showing both the brilliance of Durant’s play and the inner struggle of a man constantly battling for respect.
In one particularly emotional scene, Durant reflects on the famous Achilles injury he suffered during the 2019 Finals — an injury that would change the trajectory of his career and test his love for the game like never before.
Brooklyn and Beyond: The Later Chapters
The latter half of the documentary dives into Durant’s post-Warriors career: his decision to join the Brooklyn Nets, the challenges of leadership in a turbulent era, and his evolving relationship with the media and fans.
There are honest discussions about the failed Nets experiment with Kyrie Irving and James Harden, the struggles of injuries, and the criticism that followed. But there are also glimpses of growth — a more introspective Durant, who has found peace in his individuality, both as a player and a man.
Netflix’s team reportedly follows him through his off-court ventures, including his Boardroom media company, philanthropic efforts in education, and his dedication to mentoring young athletes.
A Story of Grit, Greatness, and Redemption
At its core, The Underdog isn’t just about basketball — it’s about perseverance. Durant’s story is one that transcends sports: a tale of ambition, loyalty, heartbreak, and redemption.
Fans will see how Durant turned criticism into fuel, how he faced injuries and doubt with humility, and how, even after years of success, he continues to play with the same hunger that drove him as a teenager in Maryland.
The documentary reportedly ends with Durant reflecting on legacy — not in terms of championships or MVP trophies, but in how he hopes to inspire others who feel overlooked.
“I was never supposed to make it this far,” Durant says in one of the film’s most poignant moments. “But every time someone doubted me, every time they told me I couldn’t… that’s when I knew I had to keep going.”
A Must-Watch for Sports Fans Everywhere
Netflix’s The Underdog is shaping up to be one of the most powerful sports documentaries in years — a blend of raw emotion, stunning archival footage, and intimate storytelling.
From the streets of Prince George’s County to the bright lights of the NBA Finals, Kevin Durant’s story is one of chasing greatness, confronting failure, and finding peace in being misunderstood.
The official release date is expected to be announced in the coming weeks, with a global premiere event rumored to take place in both Brooklyn and Oklahoma City, symbolizing the two cities that define Durant’s complex legacy.
For fans of basketball, perseverance, and human resilience, The Underdog isn’t just anothe
r sports film — it’s a celebration of what it means to rise, fall, and rise again.