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Kevin Durant emphasizes Luka Doncic's cultural influence on American basketball

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 28, 2026, 12:36 AM

Last updated Aug 28, 2026

Kevin Durant emphasizes Luka Doncic's cultural influence on American basketball

Summary

Kevin Durant discussed Luka Doncic's significant impact on American basketball during an interview on Boardroom Talks. He highlighted how Doncic, now a superstar with the Los Angeles Lakers, has led NBA jersey sales since 2024-25, marking a shift in who influences younger players. Durant compared Doncic’s influence to that of Michael Jordan, noting his global appeal and his ability to bring aspects of American basketball culture to fans around the world. Doncic’s fan sentiment and merchandise sales demonstrate his commercial pull, which has drawn comparisons to Jordan's historical impact.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Durant claims Doncic is comparable to Michael Jordan in influence.
•Doncic topped NBA jersey sales for the first time in 2024-25.
•NBAStore.com sales rose 21% following Doncic's trade to the Lakers.
•Doncic’s presence increased national viewership and ticket prices for Lakers games.
•His early influences included NBA legends like Kobe Bryant.

Latest Updates

12:36 AMYahoo Sports — Kevin Durant Makes Feelings Clear on Luka Doncic's Influence on American Basketball Similar to Michael Jordan's

What they're saying

"
The last time a player other than LeBron James or Stephen Curry topped the NBA’s official jersey sales list was 2012-13, when Carmelo Anthony held the spot for the New York Knicks. That 11-year streak ended in 2024-25, and an American didn’t break it.
— Yahoo Sports

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