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Leaked Kevin Durant messages target Rockets teammates including Alperen Sengun

Kevin Durant (7) speaks with Alperen Sengun (28) during a Houston Rockets’ game, Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, US, Oct 24, 2025. (Courtesy of Troy Taormina-Imagn Images)
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Kevin Durant (7) speaks with Alperen Sengun (28) during a Houston Rockets’ game, Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, US, Oct 24, 2025. (Courtesy of Troy Taormina-Imagn Images)
By Newsroom
February 16, 2026 10:22 AM GMT+03:00

NBA All-Star weekend drama spilled off the court after alleged private messages linked to Kevin Durant ignited controversy.

Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant has faced widespread online controversy after alleged messages linked to a private “burner” account surfaced on social media, reportedly targeting Turkish NBA player Alperen Sengun and other teammates.

The screenshots, which spread rapidly during the 2026 NBA All-Star weekend, allegedly show Durant criticizing Sengun’s performance and using harsh language about several NBA figures.

However, the claims remain unverified and neither Durant nor the NBA has issued an official statement.

The incident has drawn strong reactions from fans and revived debate about Durant’s social media activity, given his past use of anonymous accounts.

Alperen Sengun #28 of World Team looks to pass the ball during the game against the USA Stripes Team in Inglewood, California, February 15, 2026. (AFP Photo)
Alperen Sengun #28 of World Team looks to pass the ball during the game against the USA Stripes Team in Inglewood, California, February 15, 2026. (AFP Photo)

Alleged criticism of Alperen Sengun

Leaked messages from an account allegedly linked to Durant included strong criticism of Alperen Sengun’s abilities.

In the screenshots, Durant allegedly wrote that the Rockets’ franchise player “can’t shoot and can’t defend,” and claimed this was “a much bigger issue” than his own turnovers.

The reported comments surprised many observers because they contradict Durant’s earlier public statements praising Sengun. The Turkish national player is a central figure for the Houston Rockets and has gained international recognition in recent seasons.

The alleged messages also targeted teammate Jabari Smith Jr., with claims that Durant said he could not trust Smith to score or defend. Other reported remarks referenced current and former NBA figures including Stephen Curry, Russell Westbrook, Devin Booker and Ben Simmons.

Separate reports also noted that Durant drew attention during All-Star media appearances by questioning the competitiveness of international stars such as Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic, adding to broader debate surrounding the event.

Kevin Durant (left), Jayson Tatum (2nd left), Kyrie Irving (11) and Alperen Sengun are seen after the game in San Francisco, California, United States, February 16, 2025. (AA Photo)
Kevin Durant (left), Jayson Tatum (2nd left), Kyrie Irving (11) and Alperen Sengun are seen after the game in San Francisco, California, United States, February 16, 2025. (AA Photo)

Burner account claims

Reports suggest the messages came from accounts using usernames such as “@gethigher77” or “getoffmydickerson” on X, formerly Twitter.

Screenshots circulated online shortly before All-Star weekend events.

Some of the screenshots were initially shared by online accounts that post NBA related content and commentary, including pages known for satire or trolling.

Several reports noted that such accounts have previously circulated unverified claims, raising further questions about the authenticity of the messages.

Thus, the claims remain allegations and no official verification has confirmed that Durant controlled the accounts.

Online users have expressed mixed reactions, with some questioning the authenticity of the messages and pointing out that Durant frequently engages with fans through his verified account.

Kevin Durant of the Houston Rockets warms up prior to the preseason game against the Atlanta Hawks at Toyota Center on October 6, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (AFP Photo / Getty)
Kevin Durant of the Houston Rockets warms up prior to the preseason game against the Atlanta Hawks at Toyota Center on October 6, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (AFP Photo / Getty)

Durant’s history with burner social media accounts

The controversy has revived discussion about Durant’s past use of burner accounts.

The NBA star previously admitted in 2017 that he created anonymous profiles to communicate privately and respond to criticism after leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Because of that history, links between Durant and anonymous online accounts often attract attention even when claims remain unconfirmed.

Recent reports also note that Durant is widely regarded within the league as a supportive teammate, which has led some observers to question the authenticity of the alleged messages.

The allegations surfaced at a time when the NBA world was focused on All-Star celebrations, shifting attention from the court to an online controversy that continues to dominate discussion around the Houston Rockets star.

February 16, 2026 01:09 PM GMT+03:00
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