Why did Kevin Durant get emotional talking about Brooklyn Nets during Phoenix Suns press conference?

Kevin Durant was traded to the Phoenix Suns just before the NBA trade deadline. After three and a half years in Brooklyn, the 13-time All-Star wanted out and his wish was granted.

Durant has an opportunity to build something big with the Nets. However, the team has dealt with numerous problems and their biggest success was winning a couple of games in the second round.

The new member of the Suns recently held his introductory press conference, talking about both himself and his former team.

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Kevin Durant got emotional while talking about the Brooklyn Nets

Durant played 129 games for the Brooklyn Nets, averaging 29.0 points per game on 53.5% shooting. With KD on the team, the Nets were one of the most dangerous teams in the East, but they didn't have much success.

The superstar forward spoke about his tenure with the Nets during his introductory press conference.

"It was a lot of ups and downs, but I loved the grind," Durant said. "I built a family over there. They're always going to be a part of my journey."

"We didn't accomplish what we wanted to accomplish as far as winning a championship, but I enjoyed the grind." Kevin Durant added.

Durant got especially emotional while talking about the injury that kept him out of the first season with the Nets.

"I love those guys," Durant said. "I get emotional while talking about it because that was a special four years of my career, coming off an achilles [injury] and they've helped me through a lot."

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The superstar forward admitted that it was horrible how some things went down. However, he wished nothing but the best for his former team and said that they had a bright future.

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Durant's reaction to Kyrie Irving's trade request

When Durant was asked about his reaction to Kyrie Irving's trade request, he admitted that he was upset. However, he didn't know what exactly was going on with his teammate.

Durant felt that the team was finally building chemistry and getting better, but Irving's trade request was a huge blow for the team.

"It was a blow to our team, it took away our identity," the 13-time All-Star said. "He was a huge part of what we do. ... Without him, we didn't have a clear identity."

Kevin Durant also said that he loved playing with his teammates in Brooklyn. He pointed out that he didn't play many games with Kyrie Irving and James Harden, but that they played really well together.

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The Suns forward is still out with a knee injury. However, he is expected to fully recover after the All-Star break and could return in late February or early March.