Durant: The older generation's All-Star games didn't have the intensity of a Game 7; fans and media just need something to complain about.

On February 15th, during the NBA All-Star media session, Rockets star Durant spoke to reporters, responding to his previous criticism that Jokic and Doncic weren't taking the All-Star game seriously. He also mentioned that after watching All-Star games from the 1970s to the 1990s, he didn't see the so-called "Game 7-level intensity." Below is the full interview transcript—

Reporter: KD, a few days ago you made some very straightforward comments criticizing Jokic and Doncic for not playing seriously in the All-Star game. What are your thoughts on the perceived intensity of the All-Star event?

Durant: Do you think my words offended you?

Reporter: Not at all. You spoke the truth.

Durant: Can I question that?

Reporter: Absolutely, it did spark some attention. But setting that aside, do you think everyone participating in the All-Star game has the motivation to elevate the competition? Since you, Curry, and LeBron are all approaching the later stages of your careers, the All-Star game could be a memorable farewell for these legends in league history. If the All-Star game turns into a farce, that moment won’t feel as special for you legends soon to retire.

Durant: I just feel like fans and media always need something to gripe about. The current All-Star game can’t give them that nostalgic feeling from childhood, so they have to find something to complain about. Honestly, I don’t think it’s a big deal.

The All-Star weekend is meant to celebrate the sport of basketball. People still come here to honor basketball and watch the games. Fans at home complaining about the game or its intensity — I don’t think we can ever satisfy that. But seeing everyone show up, do their part, and help push the sport forward this weekend—that’s what matters.

You can feel the energy in this city and see so many legendary figures here. So, I believe the meaning of this weekend goes far beyond just the game's intensity. Debates about who tries harder or Team USA versus the World team aren’t really important. I truly think this is a great weekend that brings everyone together to advance basketball.

Reporter: You’ve always been seen as someone who studies the game deeply. I’m curious, is what you’re analyzing now something you wouldn’t have cared about when you were 23?

Durant: Over the past few weeks, I’ve watched almost every All-Star game from the 1970s through the late 1990s, at least the opening and first quarter. I wanted to see what the fuss was about—whether those games really had the intensity of a Game 7 as people say. But they didn’t. Now with all the videos online, I can revisit the games played by the legends who paved the way for us. But I’ve been watching All-Star games, and honestly, I haven’t seen the kind of intensity the older generation talks about.

Reporter: If you had to give up one thing for life: social media or video games, which would you choose?

Durant: I’d give up social media. Because they don’t deserve to hear godlike opinions from me—they simply don’t appreciate it.