Kevin Durant is visibly upset with Nike after being excluded from the brand’s latest Olympics commercial, despite having a lifetime contract with them. The ad, titled “Winning Isn’t For Everyone,” features fellow American Olympians LeBron James, A’ja Wilson, and Sabrina Ionescu but does not include Durant, who is part of the U.S. men’s basketball team heading to Paris for the Summer Olympics.
Durant, who has been sidelined from Team USA’s pre-Olympics tune-up games due to a persistent calf injury, took to Instagram to voice his frustration. He questioned Nike’s decision, asking, “@Nike tell me, am I a bad person?????” He accompanied his post with photos showcasing his gold medals from the 2016 Rio and 2021 Tokyo Olympics, emphasizing his long-standing association with the brand.
In his post, Durant reminded Nike of his commitment, stating, “Been wit yall every step of the way @nike. Even during the quarantine Olympics @nike.” His comments highlight his disappointment at not being featured in the promotional campaign, despite his significant contribution to Team USA’s success in past Olympics.
James and Michael Jordan are the only athletes who have secured lifetime contracts with Nike, a prestigious status Durant joined in 2007 after leaving Texas to join the Oklahoma City Thunder. Durant’s absence from the commercial contrasts sharply with his substantial role and enduring partnership with the brand.
Though Durant was expected to potentially participate in Monday’s game against Germany, he remained on the sidelines. Team USA’s Olympic journey begins on Sunday with a group stage match against Serbia.