The NBA has never been short of heartwarming moments involving players’ families. Remember that iconic story when Charles Barkley’s mother called Shaquille O’Neal to calm him down after a scuffle? That genuine connection between families and players always reminds fans that, beyond the lights and rivalries, basketball is still a family game.
Now, a similar feel-good moment has resurfaced. This time featuring Kevin Durant’s mother, Wanda, and former teammate Russell Westbrook.
Wholesome Moment Involving Kevin Durant’s Mother Goes Viral
Back in 2024, Season 1 of the Netflix show ‘Starting 5’ became an instant sensation. The show offered fans an unfiltered look into the lives of five of the league’s biggest stars, and in the first season, the stars were LeBron James, Domantas Sabonis, Jimmy Butler, Jayson Tatum, and Anthony Edwards.
The show’s behind-the-scenes storytelling and emotional depth made it a cultural hit. Fast forward to October 16, 2025, and Netflix has just dropped Season 2. This time, the show is spotlighting Durant, Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Haliburton, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and James Harden.
While each storyline offers fresh glimpses into the personalities of today’s NBA icons, one particular scene has stolen the show.
A part of the show, which was set on Christmas Day 2024, captured a moment after the Phoenix Suns defeated the Denver Nuggets 110-100. Instead of a boastful victory celebration, the cameras caught something far more meaningful as Westbrook shared a heartfelt hug and conversation with Kevin Durant’s mother, Wanda.
Wanda Durant to Russell Westbrook on Christmas Day in 2024
“Hey Russell! Russ! You better not, not say hi to me! Haha! Hey baby, Merry Christmas! Good to see you again!” pic.twitter.com/FmJUMDzOu3
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) October 16, 2025
The bond between the Durant and Westbrook families dates back a long way. The two superstars played together for the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2008 to 2016 and they formed one of the most electric duos in modern NBA history.
Their partnership began when Westbrook was drafted fourth overall by the Seattle SuperSonics in 2008. He joined Durant, who was already emerging as a scoring prodigy.
During their nine seasons as teammates, they led OKC to six consecutive playoff appearances, which later culminated in the 2012 NBA Finals against the Miami Heat. Although they fell short, their chemistry, both on and off the court, was undeniable. That connection has extended beyond the players themselves, and it has reached their families.
Though their careers have since diverged, their connection clearly hasn’t faded. Today, Durant, now 37 years old, continues to impress fans with his skills and leadership as a member of the Houston Rockets. Meanwhile, Westbrook, after remaining unsigned for months, is preparing for a fresh start with the Sacramento Kings.
