In the modern NBA, where a player's image is often as polished as their game, one superstar is defiantly bucking the trend. While athletes like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry meticulously craft their public appearance, Kevin Durant is doing the exact opposite, embracing a remarkably unfiltered and carefree approach to life off the court.
Durant's Unapologetic Admission on Grooming
The basketball world was taken aback when Durant recently made a startling confession. During a candid conversation on the Unguarded podcast with his teammate Fred VanVleet, the topic turned to personal grooming and the pressure to maintain a certain look. Durant stated plainly that he has little interest in such routines.
He questioned the necessity of frequent haircuts and using lotion, joking that he might only moisturize his hands if they became excessively dry. The Phoenix Suns forward explained that he doesn't actively seek out barbers. If one is already present while his friends are getting haircuts, he might participate; otherwise, he is completely comfortable going for weeks without a trim.
The Viral "Go Musty" Moment
The moment that truly ignited social media came when Durant addressed his showering habits. He clarified that he always showers after workouts, training sessions, and games. However, on days when he is at home, not planning to go out or meet anyone, his routine changes.
Durant admitted he might go a full day, or even two, without taking a shower. It was here he used the phrase that went viral: he said he likes to "go musty" because it makes him feel like he's "in the trenches." For Durant, this sensation helps him feel mentally locked in and free from distractions. VanVleet's visibly surprised reaction mirrored the disbelief that spread across the internet, spawning countless memes and jokes.
A Deliberate Shift in Mindset
This behavior, Durant clarified, wasn't always his standard. Early in his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder, he paid more attention to staying groomed and presentable. Over time, his perspective shifted dramatically.
He realized that the mental energy spent on maintaining a specific image was a significant drain. Deciding it simply wasn't worth the effort, he consciously let go of that pressure. This liberation made him feel more relaxed, comfortable, and authentic. This philosophy eventually expanded beyond just haircuts and skincare to influence his entire daily routine.
Ultimately, this episode is perfectly consistent with the public persona Kevin Durant has cultivated for years. He has built a reputation for being blunt, unfiltered, and genuinely unconcerned with traditional public relations or how he is perceived off the basketball court. Whether through his straightforward social media interactions, honest podcast appearances, or direct interviews, Durant consistently refuses to sanitize his thoughts, making his recent "musty" admission just another chapter in his authentic story.
