Houston Rockets star forward Kevin Durant is widely regarded as one of the best offensive players of all time. It is no secret that Durant considers himself one of the greatest to play the game, but when asked about his Mount Rushmore of small forwards, Durant shared a satisfying response.
While including himself in the list, Durant mentioned, “LeBron. Kawhi. Larry Bird.”
Kevin Durant’s Mt Rushmore for Small forwardspic.twitter.com/OLyFtys0f2
— Jamal Cristopher (@JamCristopher) July 28, 2025
The reputations of the players mentioned in Durant’s list speak for themselves. With multiple championships and MVP awards, among many other accolades, it is hard to argue with the selections made by the Rockets forward.
Kawhi Leonard certainly deserves his place among the greatest small forwards of all time. Widely considered one of the best two-way players in NBA history, Leonard has amassed two championships, two Finals MVPs, six All-NBA selections, seven All-Defensive team nods, and a steals title.
With two NBA championships, two Finals MVPs, six All-NBA team selections, six All-Star selections, seven All-Defensive selections, along with a steals title, Leonard is in a class of his own. When also considering that he was named to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team as well, his greatness has been acknowledged.
The mention of Larry Bird may be considered unique, but it’s hardly debatable. The impact Bird had on the game of basketball is hard to overlook. With him and Magic Johnson revolutionizing the sport and its standards of play, the Celtics legend is truly deserving of his place on this list.
Over a 13-year-long career, Bird amassed several accolades. After winning the ROTY, Bird went on to win three NBA titles, with two Finals MVPs and three regular season MVP awards in his career.
With 12 All-Star nods, 10 All-NBA selections, and three All-Defensive selections, the Celtics secured his place alongside the greatest with a Hall of Fame induction and a mention in the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.
LeBron James, like Durant, is in a league of his own. Arguably viewed as the greatest player of all time, James’ list of accomplishments is long enough to spawn two Hall of Fame-worthy careers. With unmatched longevity, the Lakers’ superstar may be unlike any professional athlete the world has ever seen.
Entering his 23rd NBA season, James has shattered several major records. With the most points in NBA history, four NBA championships, and four Finals MVPs, the 40-year-old is still looking to build upon his collection of silverware.
While the accomplishments of the other three are undeniable, Durant’s resume stands tall among them. While the game is much more than accomplishments, Durant backs himself with tangible achievements as well. As one of the most gifted offensive players the game has ever seen, a unicorn in every right, the Rockets superstar earned his spot on Mount Rushmore.
With two titles and two Finals MVPs, one regular season MVP, 15 All-Star selections, 11 All-NBA selections, and four scoring titles, Durant also earned himself a place on the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.
Heading into next season, Durant will hope to contend for a title with the Rockets, who have made some noteworthy additions to improve their roster strength. As a part of one of the best teams in the league, the forward will face immense pressure to produce results.
