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Jonathan Abrams Writes About NBA Players In Three Dimensions

From 2007 to 2009, Oklahoma City Thunder general manager Sam Presti selected future NBA MVPs Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden in three consecutive drafts, securing the fledgling team an otherworldly core. The results were brilliant and tumultuous. The…

By Owen Lewis · Defector

Published: Tuesday, 10 November 2026 at 4:23 PM

Key Things to Know

Author Jonathan Abrams discussed his new book detailing the Oklahoma City Thunder's former core of three future MVPs.
The book examines the human elements and alternate histories behind Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden.
Abrams noted that Westbrook declined to be interviewed, though former teammates and coaches provided key perspectives.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Author Jonathan Abrams discussed his new book, When We Were Young and Fearless, in an interview detailing the rise and breakup of the Oklahoma City Thunder. The book focuses on Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden, examining how their early careers and eventual departures shaped the modern NBA.

Abrams reflected on major turning points, including the 2012 NBA Finals loss to the Miami Heat, the James Harden trade, and Durant's move to the Golden State Warriors. He emphasized his goal of providing humanizing, three-dimensional portraits of all three players rather than relying on media caricatures.

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Jonathan Abrams Writes About NBA Players In Three Dimensions

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